Continuous Efforts in Bila Tserkva, Ukraine

Monthly Report – Bear Valley Bible Institute

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

As the summer break comes to an end, I would like to provide an update on the recent activities at the Bear Valley Bible Institute. Over the past three months, our students have been engaged in practical ministry work, gaining valuable experience and serving in various locations.

Practical Ministry Assignments:

- Maxim: He completed his practicum in Bila Tserkva, where he actively participated in church activities and outreach programs.

- Vadim: Vadim served in Poltava, where he made significant contributions to the local church. We believe there is a strong possibility that Vadim will continue his ministry in Poltava after graduation. Please keep Vadim and his family in your prayers as they prepare for this potential move. Vadim has one more year of study left, during which he will also be preparing for his new role in Poltava.

New Students:

We are pleased to announce that we have two new students who have already submitted their application documents. Additionally, a man named Konstantin from Kramatorsk has expressed his intention to join the program.

Upcoming Academic Year:

Classes for the new academic year will commence on September 2nd. The first course will be taught by Denton Lendon, with Konstantin Kiselenko serving as the translator. I would like to acknowledge Konstantin's long-standing contribution as our regular translator. His work is invaluable not only to the institute but also to the Church in Bila Tserkva. Please continue to pray for Konstantin and his health.

New Instructors:

This year, we have added several Ukrainian instructors to our teaching staff. We are working to involve two brothers currently pursuing their master’s degrees—Oleg Fofanov and Oleksandr Rotkevych—in the work of the Bible institute. Oleksandr, in particular, has been assisting me with the technical aspects of our educational process. He has developed a program that allows students easy access to information databases. Through this application, students can access books, notes, maps, and also submit their assignments. This innovation is a great asset to the institute.

Current Situation in Ukraine:

Unfortunately, the war in Ukraine continues, and we are losing ground at an alarming rate. The situation remains dire, with no clear end in sight. I am deeply grateful for your prayers, your patience, and your ongoing support for Ukraine. The Church of Christ in Ukraine is doing tremendous work in saving souls, thanks to the resources provided by our brothers in America. We are indebted to you, and your assistance is both invaluable and necessary.

Please also pray for the brothers who are serving in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. As the country has initiated widespread mobilization, more and more of our brothers are joining the ranks. Your prayers in this regard are greatly needed.

Future Involvement:

The schedule for this academic year is now available. If any of our American brothers are interested in participating in the educational process, please contact me. We are currently planning the schedule for the second semester, and there are opportunities for involvement.

Thank you all for your continued support. May God bless and protect you.

Sincerely,

Dennis Sopelnyk

Director, Bear Valley Bible Institute

Evangelistic Successes from Students in Arusha, Tanzania

Hello, core workers!

Greetings from the Andrew Connally School of Preaching! Along with these greetings, we are glad to give you a report on the school following the beginning of the third quarter of this year, with classes starting on August 19th. I want to remind you that after the first and second-year students completed their second quarter of studies for this year on May 31st, they all went on break. All 15 first-year students and 6 second-year students returned to school on Saturday, August 17th. During their break, they engaged in evangelism practice within their home congregations, which led to the establishment of 68 new classes, the baptism of 36 people, the restoration of 19 backsliders, the founding of 5 new congregations, and the holding of 13 outdoor meetings. We, as a school, commend our students for the excellent work they have done in saving souls during their break, which has greatly contributed to the growth of those congregations both numerically and spiritually.

During that break, the entire faculty of ACSOP was divided and traveled to various locations within and outside our country to visit our second-year students, who are expected to graduate on November 22nd of this year. During these visits, we also sought out new students to join ACSOP next year in the English-speaking class.
After completing these visits, we traveled to Busia, Uganda, to join various preachers from across East Africa for joint evangelism efforts. While there, we also announced the availability of positions for new students to apply to ACSOP next year. During this evangelism, we witnessed the baptism of 5 people and the establishment of many new classes.

In conclusion, in this third quarter of studies at ACSOP, the following courses are being taught, starting with the first year:

FIRST-YEAR:
August 19–23: Godhead, Peter K.

August 26–30: Christian Evidence, Peter K.

September 2–6: Matthew (Life of Christ 1) - Desdery, 

Exodus – Deuteronomy - Josephat, and Public Speaking 1, Losotwa M.

Short Courses: September 23–October 2: Acts and Joshua–Ruth.

SECOND YEAR:
August 19–23: Life of Christ 2 (Mark) by Desdery M.

August 26–30: Life of Christ 1 (Matthew)—Joseph M.

September 2–6: Public Speaking 3 (Advanced Homiletics): Losotwa M., 

Galatians - Ahimidiwe K., and Bible Geography.

Short Courses: September 23 – October 2:

September 23–27: Marriage and Family Life

September 30 – October 2: Foundation of Missions (study of missions in the New Testament).

October 3–6: Tanzania Leadership Conference.

We continue to express our gratitude to all the brethren in Christ who have been with us, supporting us physically and spiritually in making this noble work of God possible. May God continue to bless you richly, both physically and spiritually. Amen!

Michael, ACSOP, Dean of Academics

Evangelism in Sierra Leone producing great results

ACTIVITY OPERATION REPORT FOR JUNE, 2024

Full Time and the Extended Programs

 INTRODUCTION

We bring you greetings from Kenema, Eastern Sierra Leone. It is always good to hear that we are all prospering in good health and that souls are being converted on a daily basis.  In June, our students continued to take their classes, and all other activities outside the classroom continued. Here are the details:

 SHORT BREAKS

You were informed in our May report that our full time students progressed to their second quarter of their first year which was to end by mid-June, 2024. Indeed, the Lord led them successfully and the quarter came to an end, and they were sent on break till July 1, 2024. Meanwhile, our part time students, who completed their fourth quarter at the end of May 2024, also went on a week break.   

CONVERSIONS RESULTING FROM STUDENTS’ AND STAFF WEEKEND EVANGELISM

As the school exists to train evangelists, every member of our family is focused on bringing men to Christ. That is why every week after classes from Mondays to early Fridays, at the evening of Fridays to Sundays, we get involved in evangelism. There is a schedule prepared for this activity and it is truly helping to bring people to Christ, strengthen some weak congregations, and nurture some new ones. Therefore, before June ended, three (3) souls became saved.  

CONVERSIONS RESULTING FROM ALUMNI EFFORT

Our graduates are also very busy on the field in carrying out the great commission. They are involved in carrying out the Lord’s mandate in their various localities. So as a result, seven (7) souls were converted.

CONVERSIONS RESULTING FROM THE EVANGELISTIC TEAMS EFFORTS

You are already aware of the active works of the evangelistic teams across the country. Therefore, their efforts resulted to Twenty six (26) conversions. Apart from those being saved, the teams kept on strengthening and nurturing the various congregations that they are in touch with.

THANKSGIVING

It was in the month of May that we requested for your prayers for our Dean of Students; Joseph Missailie Jr., who lost his son and his wife had some complications; our school Director, Peter Makundu whose mother went through surgery twice; our Academic Dean, Michael Triyoh, whose wife suffered from a skin disease, and our School Lectureship and Agricultural coordinator, David Thoronka who slipped, fell and fractured his left hand. We are glad to report to you that your prayers have been working well; all the brethren mentioned are improving well now. In fact, some have been completely healed. May the Lord be praised for His goodness! Thank you too, brethren for your faithful prayers.  

CONCLUSION

We are hoping that the Lord will grant us another opportunity to be alive to read the July report again. Till then, may the Lord keep us and be with us all!

Learning continues in Guinea

Once again we bring you greetings from the Gueckedou, Guinea Bear Valley Bible Institute. Indeed the month of July has since ended but we had some administrative challenges coupled with the heavy rains for which reasons we are coming a little late with the updates of the period. 

There were not many evangelistic activities, also because as mentioned in our last report we have just started with a new batch of students and it is during this wet season. Yet, our Lord is to praised; for by his grace all went well and what transpired is of much interest and importance for us to share with you even though we had to withstand the difficulties mentioned above.

This report will cover both in and outdoor activities of - lmproved environmental conditions of the school, Lectures, Leadership Trainings, Evangelism and Agricultural practices. Here are the details below. 

Campus Environement lmproved:

By the grace of God and through the good financial support of the Bear Valley International Administration we did get some support to creat a conducive learning environnement by improving the dormitory bed facilities, provision of whiteboard for the classroom, kitchen and dining shelter extension and the making of dining tables and benches. All these are in the photos attached below.

Classroom:

During the July lectures, our still on roll 14 students completed the book of James with brother Michel Yombouno. Then in July proper, bro Fara François Tengaino took the class with the Poetic books beginning with Plasms to Songs of Songs. These courses extended a bit in the month of August whose report is coming soon.  

Evangelists and Church Leaders Training:

Another interesting and important activity carried out at the Gueckedou Bear Valley Bible Institute campus was the training of evangelists and church leaders drawn from several congregations of Gueckedou, N'zerekore and Conakry. Some of the major areas of this training which was rather an interactive discussion was focused on the evangelist or church leader and his family, church growth, the problems that hinder it and pertinent moral issues. The program was initiated by Peter Sahr Makundu, Director of the Kenema Bear Valley Bible Institute, Sierra Leone and the good voluntary services of brothers Mike Udam and Mojima who travelled from Nigeria to edify us. We remain grateful for all the good knowledge impacted in us of which possitive responses are beginning to show up.

Evangelism:

Some of our July evangelistic activities were advanced in our June report which included our evangelistic training mission to Côte d'Ivoire and some conversions by our evangelistic teams. Still other July evangelistic work was the conversion of 1 precious soul at the campus congregation by the school staff and the establishment of 1 congregation at  the biggest village in the sous-prefecture of Ouende Kenema namely Owet Djiba by the OuendeKenema team. It was at the close of a day's door to door evangelism when 2 sous were baptized one of which was a prominent Catholic leader who is now on his feet to see the church grow in his community as he worships with all his large family.

Introduction to Agric Training:

Because most of our students are farmers and the fight against hunger is unending, the administration deemed it necessary to seize the opportunity of the planting season and the available spot on campus to at least introduce the students to some modern agricultural training. The Director of the school had obtained this knowledge when brother Abenezer of Healing Hands International visited Kenema, Sierra Leone for that purpose early this year. A good number of seed beds are being raised and seedlings of garden eggs, peppers and roots of other eatable leaves including potatos will be transplanted before releasing the students for break in August. It is our hope that Healing Hands International through the appropriate persons will be encouraged by this exercice to help us. 

Conclusion:

We are grateful to you all for your support and we thank Almighty God for all that we have done in July. It is by your support and prayers that we were able to go through to accomplish the  above activities. May God continue to bless us and bless his work of preacher training and soul saving. 

Nineteen students graduate in Kenya

By the grace of our great God, that long awaited graduation ceremony of KSOP'S 6th class came to pass. The 19 graduands finally made it on August 24th of 2024, with exception of just one who dropped, out of the twenty, whom we had admitted.

It was without doubt, a successful celebration of the graduantes’ resilience and determination in fulfilling their KSOP academic requirements and to be given the deserved  Diplomas and Bachelors of Biblical Studies Degrees. 

Nine Americans graced the occasion. Over 60 local congregations of the Lord's church were represented. This is a proof that KSOP's impact is felt and the  church in Kenya is growing. Many KSOP alumni, some of whom run small preaching schools ( Bomet school of Preaching, Chwele, Mombasa, and Londiani, Christians For Kenya), also attended. Nothing  impresses us and gives joy than seeing 2 Tim. 2:2 being fulfilled by our Bible students before our eyes. 

During the two years that we had with these going graduates, they conducted a total of 166 baptisms. They had planted 8 new local congregations in different parts of the country. They had restored 18 churches that had gone  denominational way in worship and 118 individual backsliden Christians they restored. 

Surely, the Kenya School of Preaching is a spiritual force of its own, for many have realized it and are now pressing their way to join it by sending many applications. We appreciate what the Lord our God accomplishes in His servants, incuding those who are supporting this work in one way or another.

We ask prayers on behalf of this already out going group of KSOP trained preachers, for the work of ministry ahead of them. We will continue to update the brethren with reports of what the former and current students do, for this is the only way to know those who continue active and those who are not.

We thank, appreciate and pray for ALL KSOP supporters, may the Lord bless you forever into eternity as you continue to do your part, 

       Yours faithfully, the KSOP dean,

                   Elias Omollo.

Graduation and Evangelism in Cambodia

Dear Brethren in Jesus Christ

Grace and Peace be multiplied unto you all from God our Father and His beloved son, Jesus Christ. We give honor and glory to God who has given us this rare opportunity to work in His Kingdom. Thank you for taking the time to read this report and look at these recent photos.

Graduation

Congratulations to our six incredible students who have completed their Bible classes! Their dedication, hard work, and commitment to studying the word of God are truly inspiring. May this knowledge guide them and strengthen their faith as they continue their spiritual journey. And also they can bring the gospel to the lost souls in the world.  We are so proud of each one of our students.​  The graduates started working in the areas where they come from, such as their hometowns. Please pray to God our Father for their first mission after graduation.

Application Week

We continue to go out preach and take our students every week to the city, villages and other areas.  Darat and I lead the students in sharing the words of God in the new town named RunTahek. Every Sunday, about 25 to 30 people come to study God’s word with us. We are so proud of what our students have learned from in their experience with evangelism.

Some of our students also go out preaching every Saturday and Sunday to other areas including three villages such as Ta Kamm, Sam Buor,  and Kouk Khnang villages.

Children’s Camp

Children’s camp in Siem Reap Cambodia was attended by IBISR’s students, staff, and members of the church of Christ in Siem Reap. In that camp, we had 500 kids and adults! The children are very joyful to study about God’s creation and plan of salvation. They enjoy studying, singing, playing, and eating together.

Thanks

We are very happy and thankful that Brother Wes has traveled so far to visit and encourage us in Cambodia.  We also thank all of you for your love, prayers, and support of us in Cambodia.

Prayer

Please pray for our plan to send out our students who just finished their classes to go out and preach God’s word. And please remember my nephew (Tong) who is very sick with leukemia.

Servants of Christ.

Piseth Rin and Darat Run.

Co-Directors IBISR.

Making an eternal difference in Liberia

Greetings

The Students and Staff of the Bear Valley Bible Institute - Liberia extension brings you greetings and hope that all is well with you in the name of our Lord Almighty. We remain grateful to Bear Valley Bible Institute Denver Colorado administration for their unflinching support and care for us as we take on the task of preparing men for the Lord’s works here in Liberia and the world at large. Below are activities for the Month of June 2024.

WEEK END HOUSE TO HOUSE EVANGELISM

Bro. Steven Ashcraft once told us in a meeting that it is better to close down any Bear Valley Extension if the school is not evangelistic. This statement served as caveat to us, thus getting us to put in more time for evangelism.  As a requirement, this is one of the best things we came up with to keep our students busy in learning the practical works by being involve in the preaching field.

During the weekend, our students are usually required to visit any congregation of their choice to worship. During their visit, they are instructed to work with leaders of said congregation to do door knocking or visitations thus, reminding weak and delinquent members for service. And they submit the reports on Monday upon their returned. For the matter of fact, the June 2024 statistics of their weekend visitation indicates that talk to two hundred and forty-six (246) people. Out of which twenty-nine (29) were backsliders who were restored and Nine (9) received baptisms in the various congregations visited over the weekends.

 Tent Making To Empower Potential Ministers For The

Lord’s Works (General Agriculture And Computer Science)

Students at the Bear Valley Institute - Liberia are not only limited to just Biblical studies the class room activities and evangelism campaigns, but we also offer them skills in general agriculture and Computer science with the anticipation that after graduation, our Students will have the basic technological concept as well as to face the modern age and be able to support their families through crops production, animals rearing and etc. These special programs are basically focused on the practical aspects of those courses than the theory.

We are happy that Bear Valley Bible Institute Administrators allow these special skills to be offered and our students are upgraded for their future ministry.

A sister of the Sanniquellie Central Church Of Christ offered a passel of land (five Lots) to be used for agriculture practical.

Academic Work

Since our relocation to Sanniquellie, the school has been running smoothly in teams of lessons and Students Care. We started Batch Four Year One Quarter two in Sanniquellie by April 22, 2024 which ended on July 21, 2024.  As per the requirements of the institution, our staff and students are regularly carrying on their required duties and lessons are on course as per the curriculum of the school. As we conclude year one quarter two of Batch Four, we continued to seek your prayers as we strive to perform our duties accordingly.

Our class room activities continued with the following:

1.     Group works

2.     Research works

3.     Students group or Individual Assignments and presentation

4.     Memory works

5.     Final examinations (Practical and theory) etc.

 Gospel literatures / Tracts Received

On June 29, 2024 the Bear Valley Bible Institute - Liberia received 512 cartoons of tracts and Children Bible Class materials from Bro. Alfred Beyan the GSA Road Church Of Christ Minister, through Bro. Steven Ashcraft on behalf of Mission Printing. Those tracts are intended to boost the evangelistic efforts of the Country.

In an effort to make use of those materials, the Liberia evangelistic effort have taken the initiative to have them distributed to various congregations and evangelism teams of the Country. The Southeast Churches Of Chris Evangelistic Mission took the street On July 20, 2024 to carry on a massive tracts distributions in Pleebo City, Maryland County creating awareness and popularizing the Church.

At this juncture, we want to use this medium to appreciate and recognized the efforts of Mission Printing for taking the gospel out to the needed and defending the truth. Those tracts and many other Gospel materials received from you and other brethren are tremendously helping the evangelistic efforts here in Liberia and will carry us a long way in improving the works of God’s Kingdom in this part of Word.

Please keep us in your individual prayers as we take on the task of propagating the gospel.

Conclusion

We remain grateful for your love for God and your constant supports that have brought us this far, despite the challenges. To God be all the glory, praise and honor.

Kind Regards

Fester G. Lee

Director- BVBI-L

More conversions in Cameroon

Dearest in Christ,

Greetings from this part of the world. We are happy that through media technology, we can share news about our work with you who are far away from our own home. We do hope this piece of information meets you in good health and sound in faith. God keeps watching us and seeing all that we are doing for humanity and for the work that He has entrusted in our hands. We are in the rainy season now and the rains can truly try to interrupt many of our mission works. But, because we are encouraged from Paul’s inspired letter to Timothy to preach in season and out of season, we have no reason to complain or to cease to labor. We must continue to spread the good news of Jesus Christ!

Last week in Wotutu was amazing! The work here is in progress, as the Bear Valley Bible Institute Cameroon – Wotutu students are doing their best in their studies in the word. And, they are always ready to answer the Macedonian call, anywhere in our country.

After studying the Bible, our students are also benefiting from our vocational training instructor, brother Kunda Julius. He is presently teaching our students on how to do plantain and banana multiplication. Plantains and bananas are very fast, food crop growing businesses. Therefore, in our preacher training, we are seeing that our students are gaining this knowledge. It will go a long way in helping them in the field, to either do multiplication to plant in their farms, or to sell to others who need it for their farm. We are fighting food shortage as well, so this will help them to have some income, some food of their own, and to help with the food needs of others in the country.

Weekend evangelism took us to 5 different locations. Among the locations we were embarking to, was a community which contains both French and English speakers. So, students from our sister school in Mbanga, a French speaking Bear Valley Bible Institute, were a part of this exercise. As our school van took some students to other locations, my small mission work car was also there to take some students to another location.

God took us safely to Nkende. This location was very new to us. I even had to ask for directions from people along the road to finally get to the location. A sister in Christ, who just built a new house in that location, was the one that gave us the Macedonian call, asking us for help to establish a new congregation in that area. Her husband and 2 children will be staying there permanently, while she visits them during some weekends. She is serving far away from that place as a nurse. Please put her continued zeal, and our continued work in progress there, in your prayers.

In Nkende, we arrived and started with house-to-house evangelism immediately. We were telling the people that we have come with bread, that is spiritual bread, and we are hawking it free of charge. Many of them were amazed and were very receptive to the new message, although some would not give us the time to share the gospel message with them. But, many did have open hearts.

Mr. John accepted the gospel, alongside 5 others in different families. This was a clear indication that the people are receptive, and are ready to learn some new things. The community is characterized by those who follow Roman Catholic doctrine.

Some young people accepted us to their home. Their parents were there, and we were able to share the gospel message with the entire family. The parents are not fully educated, so they allow their children to interact with us. They asked us a series of questions which we answered with scripture. At the end, the young people decided to obey the gospel but their parents refused. They said that they will not be baptized, but their children should go ahead and be baptized because they were the ones interacting with us, and they have seen that they must have understood us more than themselves. They said that while the children are with the church of Christ, they will one day teach them the truth where they can understand it as well. It was amazing for me to hear this from the parents because most of the time, the parents will blatantly refuse for their children to be baptized without them being part of the group.

The sisters of the Wotutu congregation fully reinstate the LACE chapter in Wotutu, since it was closed down because of the political crisis in Cameroon that displaced many, who fled to other locations. The aim of LACE, which is LADIES ASSOCIATION FOR CHRISTIAN EDUCATION, is to help women and girls in our congregation in the areas of farming, schooling, and more as they disclose and empower them with the means available to bring more stability into their lives, marriages, and homes. Please keep this baby group in your prayers, as it will be a source of empowerment for many to the glory of God.

Brethren, please keep me in your prayers, as my birthday comes up this week on the 31st of July. God is kind to me, and I return all glory and honor to Him.

Plans

We are still focused on our daily program, which is training men to preach so that they can preach the word and evangelize their own surroundings.

Appreciations

Thank you so very much for the work you are accomplishing daily. We give all glory to God, who is the general overseer on this work.

May God bless you and keep you as you make a great day.

Elangwe and Family

By His grace, director of BVBIC-Wotutu

Many activities in Nigeria

Beloved in Christ Jesus,

Grace and peace be multiplied unto you all from God our Father and from Christ our Lord, Comforter and our Chief Shepherd . Below is the summary of some of our activities for the month of July 2024 .

SENT FORTH CEREMONY OF BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN, 2023/24 Set

The Sent Forth ceremony for the BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN 2023/24 set took place at the Doug Wheeler Events Center in Butubutu-London, Butubutu village, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria on the evening of July 5th, 2024. The event lasted for an hour and twelve minutes. Highlights included:

- Bro. Ogaji Emmanuel leading songs

- Bro. Emmanuel David Etta leading the opening prayer

- Bro. Ebenezer Olugbenga Ojo delivering an admonishment on "The Soldiers Of Christ In The Field" (2 Tim. 2:1-13)

- Encouraging words from Bro. Makinde Ebens based on Matthew 28:18-20

- Distribution of working tools such as VOTI volumes, Mission Printing trifolds, and evangelism booklets

- Closing hymn and prayer led by Bro. Akanmu Solomon

- Refreshments marked the conclusion of the program.

CONCLUSION OF FOURTH SEMESTER CLASSES 2023/24 SET:

With divine assistance and the collaboration of fellow servants at BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN, we successfully concluded the Fourth Semester classes on July 5th, 2024. The curriculum included:

- Bro. Eniafe Olukayode teaching 1st and 2nd Corinthians

- Bro. Israel Tajomavwo covering Christian Ethics and Islam

- Bro. Makinde John instructing Research & Writing-2 and Elementary Greek

- Bro. Ebenezer Olugbenga Ojo handling Pastoral Epistles (1 & 2 Timothy, Titus) and The Book of Revelation

- Bro. Isaac Olaniyan teaching L.O.C-4 (Book of John) and Church Leadership and Administration

- Bro. Durojaiye Odeyemi covering Fundamentals of Faith and Church History

- Bro. Samuel Effiong teaching on Homiletics -3 and Church Growth -1  

- Bro. Oladokun Samuel handles New Testament and Mission

- Bro. Makinde Ebens instructing Church Growth - 2, and Homiletics-2 (Practical)

- Bro. Folorunso Richard and Sister Oyenuga Esther continuing their service as Computers Instructors.

REPORT FROM SOME OF OUR GRADUATES Supported from the School Evangelism-2 allocation . Graduates from BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN reported conversions in various locations:

- Bro. Olaleye Josiah (Aramoko-Ekiti, Ekiti State, 1 Baptism)

- Bro. Victor Smarther (Ussa, Taraba State, 2 Baptism)

- Bro. Odulaja Gospel Opeyemi (Ijebu-Ode in Ogun state, 2 Baptism)

- Bro. Matthew Rowland (Akure, Ondo State, 1 Baptism)

- Bro. James Isah (Niger State, 3 Baptism)

- Bro. Olorode Samuel (Ode-Ajagba, Ondo State , 2 Baptism)

VOTI VOLUME 120 Ready for Distribution:

Voice of The Truth International's Volume 120 is now available for distribution. Initial batches will be sent next week to churches in Eastern and Northern Nigeria, with subsequent batches planned for distribution at upcoming events.

REPORT FROM SOME OF OUR STUDENTS IN PRACTICUM/TEACHING PRACTICE:

A report from our students in their final practicum/teaching practice for the 2023/24 session in Ibadan indicates the conversion of eighteen (18) individuals and the restoration of twenty-five (35) erring brethren back to the faith. Bro. Nnamso Sunday Umoh and Bro. Murphat Victor Chinagorom recorded the highest numbers with five conversions each, while Bro. Asamu Michael and Bro. Emmanuel David Etta achieved the highest number of restorations, each with six in their respective areas of service.

The students are expected to return to the school campus in Butu-London, Butubutu village, starting from the evening of August 04, in preparation for the next session, 2024/25, and the 22nd Annual Bible Lectureship and graduation of 26 successful students (Certificates = 2; Diplomas = 14; Advanced Diplomas = 10).

COMING EVENTS:

1. Establishment of a new Lord's Church in Oke-Yidi area, Badeku town, scheduled for September/ October 2024.

2. The BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN 22nd Annual Bible Lectureship and graduation ceremony will be held from August 22-24, 2024. Grateful acknowledgments are extended to Patron Bro. Chad Wagner, Grand Patron Bro. Doug Wheeler, and the Lough family for their valued support.

3. The BVBIN degree program will run from August 12-22, 2024, at the Butubutu-London campus in Butubutu village, Ibadan, Oyo State. Bro . Odeyemi Durojaiye will stand for Bro. Chad Wagner to teach Greek-1, and Bro. Ayobami Akanji will instruct on Congregational Development-1.

ABOUT A STUDENT - 

Bro. Umoh Sunday Nnamso is one of our second-year students. He was admitted to BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN in August 2021. Born to Brother and Sister Nnamso of Afagha Efiat , Etinan Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State in September 22, 1991. He was baptized on January 2, 2010 at the Church of Christ, Olomu Road, Ifo, Ogun State.

His mission at BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN is to gain more knowledge about the Word of God and to be an effective worker in the vineyard of the Lord in any aspect he can.

CONCLUSION:

On behalf of BVBIN & SWSE-Ibadan, we extend our sincere gratitude to Bro. Chad Wagner and associates, Larry & Patty Goodwin and the Tulare community Church of Christ, Doug & Diane Wheeler, Dorman & Donna Lough, Sister Cherry Lloyd & family, Zach & Kim Van Tassel and Gahana -Jefferson Church of Christ, Bro. Jerry Bates & The World Evangelism/ VOTI Crew, Bro .Richard Renfro and Mission Printing International,The BVBID family and you all for your partnership ,encouragement and support towards the growth of the Lord's Church in Africa, Nigeria in particular. May the Lord of blessing continue to bless all our work together in Christ Jesus name, amen.

I remain yours in His Grace & Love as a servant.....

Makinde Ebenezer Olufemi 

The Chief Servant of BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN and WBSFUW 

Lectureship and evangelism in Enugu

I thank God and rejoiced in His grace that have enable us successfully do all these works we had plan to do in second quarter and part of third quarter of the year 2021 despite all insecurity problems in the South East of Nigeria in the second quarter of the year.

We did Evangelism House to House Preaching for three days 20 – 22 May, 2021, at Olepe town in Igbo-Eze North Enugu State Nigeria, did Open Air Preaching at Elugukpali Town near Ogugu Development Area in Kogi State, did Community Evangelism at Umuagwu Community in Aaoli Town where I assembled the people of the community in their town hall and spoken the gospel of Jesus Christ and teach about His church to 33 members of the community on 30th July, 2021. Also we held one day Mega Evangelism/Seminar/Lectureship in memory of our beloved late Sister Doris Taylor. We spoke on the importance of Evangelism/mission to 112 preachers who attend the seminar from churches of Christ in Enugu State, Kogi State, Anambra State, River State, Imo State and Ebonyi State. The attached are my welcome address and the lecture on Evangelism/Mission to all who attended the Seminar on 31st July, 2021.

I give God all the glory for giving us brighter days for this work now that we are in raining season and to you who gave us the financial support that enabled us do these works as planned.

While we continue to pray for all we had planned to do in this remaining 3rd quarter and forth quarter of 2021year, I sincerely thank you for all your support.

May God, the rewarder of every good good reward you as He promised to do.

Herbert Nwankwo Chukwu

Evangelistic Successes by teams in Guinea

Greetings to you all, our supporters, well wishers and those who care for the preacher training work that we do in Gueckedou, Guinea. 

Yes, the good Lord has not only kept us alive, but in sound health and has also enabled us to continue doing our usual preacher training and other related activities. All has been successful to the glory of God and we are glad to share with you details of these: a new batch of students, resumption of classes, and the evangelistic activities of the Guinea teams. Now follow with me.

A New Batch of Students

Our last report concluded that the third batch of students had come to a close of their academic work in the school. Some 12 students are now awaiting their graduation ceremony which hopefully will take place in November. 

Main while, the school staff, church leaders and these prospective graduates have identified some 18 individuals who sat to an entrance exam of which 15 are maintained as the current class, the 4th batch of Gueckedou Bear Valley.

Classroom

As stated above, 15 students have started their classes and have already completed  the following courses which were taught by their respective instructors namely:

Old Testament 1, the Law - by Antoine Fassa Tolno

Old Testament 2, history -  by Saa Robert Kamano

The Cost of Discipleship by Saa Michel Yombouno as well as 1st, 2nd Thessalonians and James. 

Evaluation of these courses are scheduled to be conducted at the close of the quarter. Meanwhile, the students are being engaged with reading, memory work and other assignments.

Resumption of campus church and devotions

It is a good thing and it is appropriate for the students to have a campus church  where they are to hold worship services not only for practical exercice, but especially so to worship our Lord. 

We started this on the 21st of July and it is ongoing. 

Also, campus devotions started on the 18th of July and since then this exercise has continued to date. We are thankful to our visiting staff especially to Francis Lavaley who proposed and volunteered to sleep on campus and to begin devotions. We are also thankful to Francios Tenguiano for his voluntary services to lead the church and help direct these activities.

With the church now on campus we shall soon begin to conduct house to house evangelism in the community. 

Evangelistic Teams in Guinea

There are at present 6 Evangelistic teams in Guinea located in various areas around Gueckedou and in Conakry.  These have had some follow up and Evangelistic work to do during the month under review as par the details below:

The Ouende Kenema team:

This team had done follow up work to exhort and strengthen the brethren of both old and newly restored  churches. They reported 2 baptisms in 2 different congregations. 

The Gueckedou team:

This team members made follow up work and also converted 2 persons in the newly planted church at the village of Kamalo. At the same time one of her members, Francis Musa in a combined effort with another member of the Conakry team, Francis Lavaley made a successful evangelistic training mission in the town of Danane in Ivory Coast. There were some 35 in attendance to whom we also shared our field experience. Soon, we began to receive encouraging reports of conversions and restorations. 

The Tekoulo team:

With the rains heavely pouring and with some other personnel issues,  this team was unable to  plant a congregation as had planned. Therefore that mission was transfered on to the Koundou L-Bengou team whose detail report is given below. 

Nevertheless the Tekoulo team itself was regularly making a follow up work every weekend at the village of Workuma from where we now have 2 candidates in the 4th batch at the school.

The Yaladou kongonani team:

Not only has it accomplished follow up work during which some 5 souls were baptized in the village congregations of Fassaba and Baladou, but was also able to convert 3 other persons in a new area thereby planting a congregation in the village of Woladou. Brother Eloi Tolno, the group leader is one of our hard working evangelist carring on these missions. 

The Koundou L-Bengou (KLB) team:

Bro Saa Many who leads the KLB team has worked hard and has planted a congregation in the village of Maadou. It began with 3 baptisms on the 30th of June, but Sunday attendance is encouraging -45 and since then other evangelistic work has continued and we are optimistic that sooner or later additional conversions will follow. Then in the village congregation of Kongola, this team's follow-up work has increased conversions. During the months of June and July we have registered 13 baptisms and the Sunday attendance some Sundays raise to 100+.

Also, the Koundou L-Bengou team is giving a hand to the Tekoulo team which was scheduled to plant a congregation, but was unable to due to unbalanced circumstances. So the KLB team is on a mission this weekend to plant a congregation in the village of Yarakorodou.

The Conakry team:

Much effort is being applied by the members of this team to win new souls and to strengthen already existing congregations. There have not been any new conversions registered, and new grounds are being exploited along with follow-up visits in communities where they preached before. 

It was of this team that a member cooperated with a Gueckedou team member, Francis Musa, for that successful evangelistic mission at Danane, Côte d'Ivoire mentioned above. 

Conclusion

In summary, the activities for the month of June were few, but with a successful outcome. We have started classes with a new batch of 15 students, resumed morning and evening devotions, and started the campus church. 

We did make a successful evangelistic training mission at Côte d'Ivoire where the outcome is to the praise of God. 

Finally, our follow-up and evangelistic campaigns resulted in a total of 28 baptisms. 

We are grateful to God and are thankful to the Bear Valley International Administrative body especially the West Africa Coordinator, Steven Ashcraft, and all well-wishers who support this work. 

I thank you all and personally remain grateful to Steven Ashcraft and Keith Kasarjian.

Continued Academic Success and Evangelism in Takoradi

OPERATIONAL REPORT JULY 2024

1.   CLASSROOM WORK

Main courses for the term were completed in the month and examinations on the various courses were also written. The courses completed this term include: the life of Christ – 4 (Gospel of John), congregational development, books of Galatians and Hebrews, marriage and family life, and logic and the Bible. The second term of the second year will be completed in some weeks’ time. Most of the students are left with one more academic term to complete their two years program.

Part-time students continued to study the three courses that were started last month. These courses are Counselling (taught by Joshua Aidoo), the Godhead (taught by Samuel Owusu-Afari) and the book of Revelation which is taught by Nathaniel Brobbey). 

2.   PERSONAL EVANGELISM AND BAPTISM

The propagation of God’s saving word continued as always in the month of July. The good news was preached using the various media available. Old students who preach on radio, television, and the other social media platforms continued to preach the message through those channels. Others also utilized the house-to-house approach and yet still others used the public preaching approach, which is usually done between 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Our current students are also doing their part in spreading the gospel during weekends which resulted in three baptisms.

Church Plantings and School Updates in Accra, Ghana

Southern Institute of Biblical Studies

Monthly Report – July 2024

We are grateful for the Lord’s continued blessings as we navigate through July 2024. Here are the key activities and updates for this month:

Class Activities

1. Quarter 3 Reopened:

• The third quarter of the academic year commenced on July 14th. Students returned with renewed enthusiasm, ready to engage in their studies and spiritual growth.

1. Course Schedule and Instructors:

• Hermeneutics 2: Taught by Emmanuel Amoo-Gyimah, this course delves deeper into the principles of biblical interpretation.

• Greek: Samuel Papa Woode continues to impart his expertise in Greek, aiding students in understanding the original language of the New Testament.

• Gospel of John: by Shadrack Oppong to search in the records of John during the ministry of Christ.

•  Book of Acts: Emmanuel Oden Larbi leads this course, providing comprehensive insights into this foundational New Testament book.

• Computer Studies and Research Writing by Sammy and George

• Emmanuel Gyasi Quansah and Emmanuel Amoo-Gyimah will teach a Short Course on 1 Corinthians and Life of Christ 2.

Campaign Activities

• Church Planting at Akotoshi, Kotoku Road:

• Our next campaign by the end of this quarter will be held at Akotoshi, Kotoku Road.

• We are preparing and putting all resources together to start the work.

• We are also organizing ourselves for follow-up campaigns at our village churches (Fotobi, and Paanor) and to strengthen the brotherhood

Churches planted this year 2024 and their report

• Akotuakrom Congregation

Akotuakrom church is a new church, which is one of the churches planted this year 2024. This church is doing great in growth. Their enthusiasm, understanding, and love for the Lord keep increasing. Currently, their total number is fifteen (15). For this matter, we have assigned two (2) of our students, Jesus and Ahinkora, to Sunday and Wednesday meetings to help strengthen them. The Adoagyiri church has assigned Peter Abrokwa, one of our graduate students who completed in 2020, to take the role as an Evangelist.  

·         Oklu Nkwanta church

This is one of the newly planted churches which report on their love for the church incredibly. Our student, Frank Nyarko, is the Evangelist in this church. Frank is working hard with the church in evangelism, visiting prospects who were left over. Currently, the number of old members is 14, restored members five (5), baptisms two (2), summing up to twenty-one (21).

·         Paanor Church

Paanor church near the school is also doing well. John Acquah one of the full-time students who just completed has been assigned to help the church. This church was one of the newly churches planted. Currently, their number is Four (4). We thank God for this as most of the township lives in cohabitation. We are organizing a follow-up campaign to keep educating them.

• New Students:

o   Our new system of admission is helping to obtain more students. Currently, our target to visit churches this quarter is ongoing. Places to visit are Suhum churches and Adeiso churches.

o   Sammy and Amoo-Gyimah have taken the responsibility to embark on these visits.

School Building

• The State of the Building Project:

• The current state of the school project is that the screading of the floor, plastering of rooms, security door, buggler proof, for the windows, and plumbing works are done.

• The next fixtures needed for us to move in are glass windows, electrical appliances and plumbing fixtures, solar or electric power, tiling, painting, and others

Radio Programme

E.O Larbi and Silas Agyei have been preaching on Top Radio 103.1 and the listening of the audience has been steadfast, increasing each week. We had ten (10) persons phone-in to congratulate and ask for further studies. We were able to visit only two in the first week. We did further visitation on three families to settle their marriage problems; There are promises from some listeners to search and visit the church in their various areas in Accra. For a lack of funds, we were unable to visit most of our Callers who requested us to visit their homes for studies. We pray for increased health and finance for our donors and sponsors, especially Steven and all who pray for this program. There has been a request for baptism and wish to help them in next week's programme. So far the program is serving as an opportunity for the advertisement of both the school and the church.

We are thankful for the unwavering support from our community, partners, and friends. Your prayers and contributions are instrumental in our mission. May the Lord continue to guide and bless our efforts.

Report by E.O. Larbi

Updates from Ukraine

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

I want to share the news from June and July with you.

Currently, Ukraine is experiencing intense heat. Unfortunately, due to significant shelling from the Russian Federation, our energy system is almost non-functional. As a result, people cannot use air conditioners or refrigerators, as power outages last for 15-20 hours a day. This has led to a complete collapse and destruction of the country's economy.

According to recent changes in the law, all men must register for military service. If you fail to register by July 16th, the government imposes a fine of approximately 20,000 UAH, which is about 500 USD. After this, registration is mandatory. Failure to comply will result in continuous fines or forced conscription to the military commissariat, leading to further problems.

There is also good news. Last month, two wonderful camps organized by Americrane took place, one in Warsaw and the other in Lviv. Thanks to Jeff Abrams' team for organizing this spiritual retreat. Many people from all over Europe gathered in Warsaw. My family and I also attended this wonderful event. The following week, the camp took place in Lviv, Ukraine. This was a significant event for the Ukrainian church. Please pray for such events as they greatly strengthen and encourage us spiritually.

Regarding the work of the Bible Institute, we have found three new students this year who will join the program: two men and one woman. They have submitted all necessary documents and are eagerly awaiting the start of the academic year. One of the students, named Viktor, has a deferral from the military commissariat, so we do not expect any surprises regarding his mobilization. However, there are issues with the second student, Nikolai, from Poltava. He will turn 25 in a few months, and in Ukraine, men are officially drafted into the army at the age of 25. We hope he will also receive a deferral. He has two children and a wonderful wife, but it seems that the chances are slim. To receive a deferral, one must have three children or a first-degree disability. Please pray for Nikolai and the resolution of this situation.

This year, we will start our classes in September. Vadim and Maxim will remain in the program, so we expect five students in the next academic year.

I also want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our partners and churches who work alongside BVBIU: the Church of Chernivtsi, the Church of Bila Tserkva, and the churches in Poltava, Kramatorsk, and other cities. They are doing fantastic humanitarian work, providing many people with both spiritual words and physical food every day.

Additionally, this year we are adding some new members to our teaching staff, including students pursuing their master's degrees. Currently, we have six students in the master's program. This year, I hope Oleg Fafanov and Alexander Rotkevich will join us. They are still young and inexperienced but have great potential. Oleg Fafanov is currently preaching in Uzhhorod, previously in Kostiantynivka, and Alexander Rotkevich is a youth minister in Chernivtsi. These brothers serve diligently in Ukraine, and it is truly an honor for them.

Thank you for your prayers and financial support for the institute. We continuously ask for your prayers for peace in our country.

With respect and love,

Your brother in Christ,

Denis Sopelnik

Successful Report from Sabo Oniba/Lagos Island Centers

SABO ONIBA/LAGOS ISLAND CENTERS REPORT: April to June 2024

INTRODUCTION

Rom 13: 5: “Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience.” This is one of the Bible passages that becomes very challenging to obey when one sees that the leaders are corrupt therefore not doing their duty. Nigeria is now a practical case study in this area. However, we thank God in the midst of all these, his children are navigating through it. We are also grateful to the sponsors of our school project and other mission work going on here in Lagos and other places. We are raising an army for the Lord; some are under training while others have become team members in the fieldwork. 

 BEAR VALLEY WORK

The divine responsibility to train faithful men who will in turn train others continues in our two centers here in Lagos. The Book Of James which is about the principles of Christian Growth and Maturity was handled by Tim Iwe. Hermeneutics 1 was taught by Akanimoh Archbong and Oluwafemi Adewuyi showed the students the nature and identities of the New Testament Church in Lagos Island center. Sabo Oniba welcomed two new students in the last quarter. In their classwork, Suleiman Yusuf spent time on NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH – 2 (WORSHIP). Israel Tajomavwo from Ikorodu Center led the class on CHURCH HISTORY while Gbenga Ilori from Agege Center took the class on CHRISTIAN HOME.

Behold Our Student

Paul Benjamin Orji: Bro Paul is from Umuneochi, Mbala in Abia state. He obeyed the gospel in 1993 and is doing his private business in Alaba International market here in Lagos. Paul is married with children. He is a member of Sabo Oniba congregation where he has been assisting the Minster who was his mentor. Bro Paul took over the ministerial work as the preacher from the retired minister. He has been a visiting worker and teacher to many young congregations in his area. We are happy to have him as one of our students in the Sabo Study Center.   

CAMPAIGNS/EVANGELISM

Within this quarter, we held our strategic physical meeting/planning, visited six high schools for enrollments, carried out market evangelism, and were able to plant a congregation in Ogolonto, Ikorodu Lagos.

WBS ENROLLMENT/BAPTISM

From our outings, we have enrolled 215 prospects for the WBS evangelism program of which nine (9) lessons have been returned to us and given to the students. We recorded 5 baptisms from the team this quarter and we have more than 300 prospects for follow-up. This quarter also, offered me the opportunity to train 8 preachers from Enugu town, and 5 in Lagos on how to be an Online WBS Study Helper. I will be going to Owerri this July ending and Abuja in the first week of August for the same purpose. Thanks to Bro Chad for supporting this training with the transport fair.  

APPRECIATION

We, at the Instructing crew of BV Schools highly appreciate the efforts of the Management of BV, especially Bro. Keith Kasarjian and Bro. Chad Wagner. They are always on hand to sponsor, render advice, correction, and other forms of help that assist the program to run smoothly. We also appreciate the efforts and sacrifices of our sponsors. We pray that God Almighty should continue to bless all of you, and may God continue to give the management more wisdom to continue to direct the programs at their right paths.

CONCLUSION

We hope to keep up with our work here and even improve our campaigns and enrollments God willing. We are once again thanking you for your partnership.

Thanks and God bless you all.

TIM IWE (Self-Made Slave for Christ)

Graduation of Bear Valley Sunyani Campus (Ghana)

A memorable graduation was held in Sunyani the regional capital of Bono region of Ghana, on the 28th of July 2024 for Bear Valley students. All nine students graduated. Among them is Dr Ebenezer Arthur-Quansah a Senior Medical Officer who works at Sunyani Teaching Hospital. 

The program was in two parts.

Worship and graduation

During the worship, Bible class and sermon were merged. Evg. Silas Boadu, a lecturer at Ghana Bible College in Kumasi, was the guest speaker. He spoke on the theme "Challenges facing the 21st century Preachers."

He further advised the graduates not to focus on self benefits but rather fight against wrongdoing in the system. Again he challenged them to use social media networks to propagate the gospel, Lord's supper,  giving, prayers, and songs were done to make the service complete. 

The second part is the graduation continued. Bro Kwasi Kankam Boadu, an Esq, moderated the program. 

Congregational songs were sung, I Rexford Agyare Mintah ( Coordinator for Bono, Bono East, and Ahafo regions) gave the welcome address, and after the address the Moderator introduced the chairman for the occasion in the person of Dr Philemon Mbilla a Senior Medical Officer, who is also a brother in the Lord, he gave his acceptance as chair. 

The National Coordinator of Bear Valley Ghana, bro Kojo Acquah Beenyi, who was the Guest of Honour also elaborated the efforts of Bear Valley in Ghana in terms of Preache’s training, gospel campaigns, and church planting, just to mention a few. He officially introduced me as assistant National Coordinator responsible for the three Brong Ahafo regions. He concluded by commending Bear Valley International for supporting the work in Ghana and beyond. 

The Director of Sunyani campus Bro Daniel Kyereh-Mensah gave his address, in which he thanked the Lord for how far He has brought the school. Close to Fifty Preachers has been trained and working for the Lord's church. He further thanked Bear Valley for the overwhelming support. Followed by the graduating class president in the person of Dr Ebenezer Arthur-Quansah, he also thanked the management/instructors of the college for their dedication, and in humility preparing them for the four years of training. 

An ordination ceremony followed where all the graduates kneeled down for preachers and other leaders prayed for them. 

Finally, awards and citations were given to students and other dignitaries, including Bro Kojo Acquah Beenyi for his instrumental role in the Ghana campus. 

More than twenty congregations and their representatives, chiefs, families, and friends graced the occasion. 

Thank you

By Rexford Agyare Mintah ( Bear Valley Coordinator for Brong Ahafo regions)

Taking the gospel door-to-door in Chad

Moundou, Chad

August Report

Here is another opportunity to give you some information about the life of our Bible school. Before all things, receive our sincere greetings in the precious name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. May the peace of God the Father, and the grace of Jesus Christ the Son, be abundantly given to you from Jesus Christ!

Concerning evangelism, since the return of the students on July 30, we have worked by going door to door every Saturday, but recently, into the neighborhoods a little deeper. We also organized a large Alumni campaign for three days, including Sunday, in Doba. Doba is a province located more than 100 km from Moundou. It was disheartening that we did not have any baptisms in Doba, however, we managed to organize a place of worship which will allow an evangelist living in this locality, to worship with some people to whom we preached the gospel. We hope for possible baptisms, given that we word was sown and the evangelist will be watering. We pray for this assembly in Doba, because Doba is a large city located between three other large cities.

Regarding studies at the Center, we glorify God for his grace. The courses are taking place without major difficulties. Because of the time given to students in the month of June for their rural activities, we will go on vacation this time with a slight delay. They will leave on vacation after two more weeks of study, that is to say, after August 15. We continue to pray for a happy end to the seventh quarter.

Datoudji, Director BVBI Moundou–Chad

October graduation planned in Gweru, Zimbabwe

JULY 2024 NARRATIVE REPORT

Introduction

The school continued to uphold its mission of preparing students for effective Christian ministry through academic rigor, spiritual formation, and practical training. This report summarizes key activities and accomplishments during the month.

1. End of Term Examinations

We recently concluded our end-of-term examinations, and we are pleased to report that most of our students performed admirably, and we are proud of their efforts. There is greater room for improvement to some who are not yet at their best. Their hard work and dedication to their studies have been evident, and we are proud of their accomplishments. The results reflect their deepening understanding of scripture and practical ministry skills, preparing them for future service in their communities. Exams covered various subjects, namely: Personal Evangelism, Life of Christ, Scheme of Redemption, Christian Evidences, Pentateuch, How we got the Bible, New Testament Church, and Public Speaking. Classes will resume on the 8th of September.

2. Students on Internship

Our students on internship have continued their impactful evangelism work, resulting in additional baptisms this month. A total of their enthusiasm and compassion have not only brought new believers into the fold but have also strengthened their own faith and ministry skills. Their commitment to sharing the Gospel is a testament to the training they have received and the transformation occurring in their lives. Some students are moving from their current station to another. 18 conversions were made in the month.

3. Projects

3.1  Greenhouse

In addition to academic and outreach activities, our school gardening project has seen remarkable progress this month. After removing the tomatoes in the greenhouse, we planted a new crop, cabbages. We look forward to harvest it at the end of August to early September. Our gardening project remains a source of pride and learning for our students. This initiative not only teaches sustainability, self-sufficiency, and teamwork but also enhances the sense of community among students as they work together for a common goal.

4. UPCOMING EVENTS

4.1  PREACHERS’ RETREAT

From the 16th to the 18th of October Bear Valley Bible Institute-Zimbabwe shall host its annual Preacher’s Retreat under the theme “TAKING PLEASURE IN SELF DEVELOPMENT” from Proverbs 12.17. A number of topics are lined up with the objective of inculcating self-development skills and attributes in preachers. The fee shall be $15 per person.

4.2 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AND GRADUATION

A graduation ceremony shall take place on the 19th of October from 9.30am on campus. This event is open to all.

Conclusion

Overall, this month has been productive and successful for the school. We celebrate our students' academic successes, the fruit of their evangelism efforts, and the progress of our gardening initiative. As we continue to nurture the next generation of leaders in ministry, we are grateful for your support and prayers that empower us to fulfill our mission. We look forward to what the next term will bring as we continue to grow and serve.

Graduation draws near in Luanshya, Zambia

Introduction

“I must work the works of him who sent me while it is day, for the night cometh when no man can work” (John 9:4) said our Master. We give honor and glory to God who has given us this rare opportunity to work in His Kingdom as we send Warm greetings to you all brothers and sisters.

This is a good time to report what is happening at BVBI-Zambia during the month of July, 2024.

Moving steadily to the “finishing-line”

It is great to see that in the next couple of months, our students will finally complete their two years of study here at Bear Valley Bible Institute Zambia. 

They are really excited to finish and eager to go back to their congregations and preach. In the past thirty two days our lives at BVBI- Zambia has greatly impacted the church on the Copperbelt province positively. Indeed our relationship with members of the Lord’s church here on the Copperbelt has greatly matured in the Lord and we expect a great turn out for our graduation this year.

Vital Signs (Restorations)

We have been evangelizing in six districts on the Copperbelt province namely Mufulira, Chingola , Kitwe, Ndola , Luanshya and Mpongwe.  And our labor in the Lord has produced good results.  Firstly we have witnessed the restoration of twenty two members which has been a great encouragement to the body of Christ here in Zambia.

All the weekends and midweek services have been used to deepen our interactions with members of the Lord’s church and communities at large. We have experienced how important and necessary Bible studies are needed. People have a desire to know God’s word better and they have kept us in touch with them. Indeed for us to be a strong family we need to be spending time together.

Baptisms

We have recorded seven additions to the body of Christ through Baptisms. Evaryn ndjovu, chinyama Phillip, Dominic Bwalya, James Loti, Mary Mundenda,Jane Kaonga and Naomi Mulenga.  We pray that these souls walk with Jesus forever. They are wonderful additions to the family of God.

Recruitment of new students in high-gear.

Recruitment is going on well and so far we have twenty prospective of which we only need to choose fifteen for our new intake of 2025-26. We believe 2025 intake will be very balanced. We expected some to come as far as Angola and D.R. Congo but we failed to travel to interview them in their respective countries due to limited funds.

We expect the new intake to begin classes after the current student body’s graduation in October this year.

The effect of drought in Zambia

There is severe effect of drought caused by EL Nino in all the Provinces of Zambia. And as a result we are experiencing a High cost of pricing in all commodities. Our head of State is asking for immediate help from the international community in order to mitigate the devastating effects of the drought which has destroyed nearly half of the country’s corn crop, living millions in need of food aid.

In order to effectively implement life saving and sustaining skills for our students, we are involved in vegetable growing. And, our students were taught on growing soya-beans and other requirements in order to have the good production and healthy appearance of soya-beans. We had a good Harvest for 2024 and we need to do more as students graduate this year to begin their new life. We hereby appeal to you our partners to support our plan financially and materially in mitigating the devastating effects of the drought. 

Updates on our Alumni 

We have news from our former students working in different provinces here in Zambia; some have gone as far as Eastern, Northern, North-western and Luapula province of Zambia. We have Simon Nkhazi who to Eastern province and had stayed for seven days preaching, though no baptisms where recorded we only recorded the increase in attendance. Simon is in his second year studying registered medicine in Lusaka. 

Boyd Kalaba working on the copper-belt at our newly established Church, is doing a great work for the month of July we have seen the increase in attendance from 20 -27 to 30-55 just within a month. Gershom Chansa now studying as a male Nurse has continued to show his dedication for the Church in Southern province Kalomo we have recorded five baptisms and eleven restorations from him. Nicholas Mulubwa and Reuben Museka working as small scale farmers have continued to do well in the ministry. We have recorded seventeen restorations for the past two months from Nicholas and one baptism from Reuben in Northern and Luapula respectively.

We also have another hard working preacher from southern province now residing in Lusaka at our newly established congregation Aclay Kabbaya. Aclay has set multiple home Bible studies and has continued to preach, we continue to pray that Aclay’s work may bear more fruit.

Conclusion

Thank you kindly to all who have helped in any way to prepare these men for the deep and meaningful task of preaching the Gospel. Special thanks go to Woodland Oaks Church of Christ for their continued financial support, Bear Valley Bible Institute International, Instructors, Donnie our Country Coordinator and indeed everyone involved in this work. 

Thank you all once again!

Brotherly,

Cephas and Fred   

Class work continues in Tirupati, India

Reporting Letter for the month of July-2024

Respected director Mr. Keith Kasarjian and our coordinator Mr. Mark Reynolds and all the prayer partners -  greetings to you in the name of Jesus Christ. We pray that this reporting letter finds you well. We thank you for your continual prayers and encouragement. By the grace of God, the work of Bear Valley Bible Institute-Tirupati-India is growing and growing.

Classroom work:  We are happy to report about the classroom work, in the month of July we have completed the book of Leviticus, second Samuel  and other topics like Truth about God, man, sin, redemption , rightly divide the word of God, N.T Church, kingdom and N.T worship, judgment etc..

Campaigning :In the month of July we have conducted our campaign at S.V.Nagar, Tirupati. We have distributed tracts and  New testaments. We also provided them for the local leaders so that they may distribute in different villages.  

Baptisms: in The month of July 5 souls were baptized and added to the body of Christ. We request  you to pray for their spiritual growth.

Asian Mission Forum:  We have received invitation from Asian Mission Forum –Cambodia. Myself, my son Timothy and other two young men from our place were able to participate at AMF-2024 which was held from July 26th. to 30th . The theme of the conference was” Build the Lord’s kingdom”. There were different speakers who were able to present different topics. The time was given to the participants to speak a few interesting things pertaining to their field experience. I was to able to use the opportunity to speak for few minutes.  We have enjoyed wonderful fellowship and preaching. By the grace of God we had safe journey.  

ZOOM classes: On every Wednesday and Thursday we have zoom classes. The word of God is spreading to the people in distant places.

Leadership classes: There are several preachers who work in the rural areas, some of them did not get opportunity to attend Bible schools, but they have a great zeal. We often conduct leadership classes and teach them different subjects which help them in their church planting ministry. In the month of July 12th we conducted a leadership class. In the morning session and afternoon session we were able to teach The life of Christ, The work of the gospel preacher, and basic points about homiletics. We invited two guest teachers from other towns to assist for the July leadership classes.

Bible distributions for the visually challenged : 

 There were ten blind people who showed interest to receive Bibles. They have good friends who are interested to read Bibles voluntarily for them.

First medical boxes for the widows:

My daughter has completed her diploma in pharmacy and was interested in preparing first aid medical boxes to the poor widows in our local church. In the month of July 10 widows received first aid boxes.  We pray for the donors who were able to assist for this benevolence

A.G. Garden workship: In the month of July we conducted  AG garden workshop on 15th July-2024 by the partnership of Healing Hands International.

Future plans:-  There are several students willing to study the Bible but they are not able to learn the Bible in depth because of their secular studies, jobs and other businesses. We are seriously thinking to start distance education facility for the students who are not able to attend for the regular residential program. We would like to submit the more details to our director for the permission in near future. We request your prayers for this plan.

We thank you for the platform of BVBI-India. God is good in using us as useful instruments for the glory of God. Please continue to pray for our BVBI-extension centre –Tirupati-India.

Thanking you.

Yours brother and sister in christ.

Vijay&Swarupa, and my children  Timothy and Tabitha&staff and students from BVBI-extension centre –Tirupati-India.