Another new school in India starts strong

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE – CHENNAI

WORK REPORT

SEPTEMBER TO DECEMBER, 2024

The Extended School Programs:

We are so happy to inform you that in the past four months we have worked hard to get the success in completion of four months (September - December 2024) in Extended Program, the conversion of souls and the nurturing of congregations through Special Bible studies, Gospel Meetings, Lectureships and Seminars etc.,

Academic Updates:

The students were fully committed to their studies and wrote the exams successfully. Our hard-working staff also continued to be very busy both in the classroom and on the evangelistic field.

So far, we completed Three Courses:

1.        Biblical Studies: OT Survey 1 - Study of Law: Genesis to Deuteronomy

2.       Apologetics: How We Got The Bible

3.       Apologetics: Christian Evidences

Currently we are studying the Fourth Course

4.       Elective Course: Cost of Discipleship

The students also completed writing exams on Three Courses:

1.        Biblical Studies: OT Survey 1 - Study of Law: Genesis to Deuteronomy

2.       Apologetics: How We Got The Bible

3.       Apologetics: Christian Evidences

 Conversions:

In the past four months (September - December 2024), 04 people were baptized.

 Conclusion:

We are so eager to use every opportunity which our Lord grants us, to work even more harder to train the students in the best way and also to edify the congregations.

Thank you.

In Christ,

Bro. G. J. Prabhudoss

(Director, Bear Valley Bible Institute – Chennai)

New Indian school begins strong

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE – ARAKKONAM

No. 6, Jayaram Nagar, Maveripettai, Ammanur, Arakkonam

WORK REPORT

OCTOBER TO DECEMBER, 2024

 The Extended School Programs:

We are so happy to inform you that in the past three months we have worked hard to get the success in completion of three months (October - December 2024) in Extended Program, the conversion of souls and the nurturing of congregations through special Bible studies, Gospel Meetings, Lectureships and Seminars etc.,

 Academic Updates:

The students were fully committed to their studies and wrote the exams successfully. Our hard-working staff also continued to be very busy both in the classroom and on the evangelistic field.

So far, we completed Two Courses:

1.        Biblical Studies: OT Survey 1 - Study of Law: Genesis to Deuteronomy

2.       Apologetics: How We Got The Bible

Currently we are studying the Third Course

3.       Apologetics: Christian Evidences

The students also completed writing exams on Two Courses:

1.        Biblical Studies: OT Survey 1 - Study of Law: Genesis to Deuteronomy

2.       Apologetics: How We Got The Bible

 Conversions:

In the past three months (October - December 2024), 04 people were baptized.

Conclusion:

We are so eager to use every opportunity which our Lord grants us, to work even more harder to train the students in the best way and also to edify the congregations.

Thank you.

In Christ,

Bro. G. P. Shyam Sundar

(Director, Bear Valley Bible Institute – Arakkonam)

Campaign in Tirupati, India

Reporting Letter for the Month of January-2025

Date : February 1st, 2025.

Respected beloved brother Keith Kasarjian our director , beloved brother Mark Reynolds- our coordinator and all the prayer partners,  greetings to you in the matchless name of Jesus Christ. We pray that this reporting letter may serve us to find you good health. We thank you very much for your prayers and encouragement. We would like to share brief report for the month of January -2025.

Classroom work:  BVBI-Tirupati-India  classroom works are seriously going on. Our teachers are dedicated to teach and students are active in attendance as well as following the teachers, doing their memory work, taking tests, writing assignments, and taking notes while teachers are teaching .

Note Book writing:  Students are writing good notes and all the teachers are active in checking their notebooks and giving marks for the notebook writings.

Campaigning : January 18th, 2025 we have conducted campaigning at Chillamathru village. This village is located about 100 km away from the Bible school. It was the first time the village people heard about Jesus Christ. About 75 people from the village attended the meeting but several people heard the gospel message by our  sound system.

Three funerals: In the month of January there were three funerals that we attended . We were invited to share the word of God. We have noticed that during funerals the hearts of the people are very tender and receptive to receive the word of God even though we never expected to stand in the funeral service.

Two comfort meetings: In India it is our culture  to conduct prayer meeting after two weeks of the funeral service.  During the prayer meeting all the relatives, village people, friends and church members gather to comfort the family members. I had an opportunity to share the word of God at two comfort meetings in the month of January.

Zoom Bible Classes: In the month of January we conducted zoom classes every Tuesday and Thursday. We have completed the book of Acts, Philippians, Ephesians, Colossians, Philemon and are currently studying James.

Bible Seminar: In the month of January 20th&21st we participated in the Christian Growth Bible Seminar at Rajamandry.  We are very happy to report to you that Dr. Damon Vincent was the resource person for the seminar.  He invited me to present

Baptisms: In the month of January three souls were baptized and added to the body of Christ. We request you to pray for the new souls.

 Our Coordinator Mr. Mark Renolds’ Indian mission trip:- We are very happy to report to you that our coordinator Mr.Mark Reynolds has visited India safely in the month of January-2025.  His trip has been a great encouragement. I was happy to translate his lessons on Sunday worship service at Nellore.

Home Bible studies: We conduct home Bible studies regularly. Right now three newly connected families are studying, and Lord willing soon they will be baptized.

Staff meeting: We are happy to inform you that we had a staff meeting to discuss a few agendas for the welfare of the students and their progress .

Extra subject: out of students interest during the weekend, we introduced the hotel management subject  for the students so they might be able to support their work as preachers after they graduate.

We thank you for your prayers and encouragement. The Bear Valley Bible Institute is a wonderful plant farm to train the young people. We are ever grateful to you for your prayers, encouragement and assistance for the smooth function of the project.

Thanking you.

Yours brother,

Vijay

Visitors in Cebu, Philippines

Highlights of Year 2024 for BVBI-Phils

International Teachers

This year is a very special for the students Bear Valley Bible Institute Philippines for we were visited and taught by several international instructors from the US. In February, our students had a privilege to study the Minor Prophets with Jonathan Moore. Brother Moore has been travelling to Israel and other Biblical places for many years and his knowledge on Biblical Archaeology helped our students more on what happened during the life of the minor prophets.

We had another set of guest instructors in July as brothers Greg Pollock and Jon Lucius took turns in teaching our students the Scheme of Redemption. We have several young people from Dumaguete City auditing this course.

The following month, brother Shane Fisher and his wife Emily visited Cebu and Shane taught a course on 2 Corinthians. This is their first time visiting our Cebu and we had a good time working together.

Finally, Jerry and Paula Bates came back to Cebu and taught again for our students at BVBIP in November. Jerry taught on the course Personal Evangelism - Foundation of Missions. Our students learned a lot in this course and Jerry did a wonderful job teaching this course. We greatly appreciate the work of our fellow brothers and sisters travelling hundreds of miles teaching the word of God.

Worship Leading Seminar

I had the opportunity to conduct a 2-day Seminar on Worship Leading this December 9-10, 2024, to the students of PIBS and BVBIP. We had great a seminar and we also talked on how to improve our leadership skills and encouraging them to share these things to the men who are leading in their own congregation.

Baptisms

Our God has truly blessed our ministries this year and we have several people who responded well to our evangelistic efforts. We have a total of 30 baptisms this year which resulted from personal Bible studies and visitations. We pray that God will continue to bless our ministries this coming new year.

Neil Emperado

New students arrive in Uganda

Greetings in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus. 

The love of God that surpasses everything. God  has dressed us with joy in that we are still called His children. I bring you greetings from my family,  though we have had some challenges of sicknesses but our God is faithful. He is leading us through. 

We are more than glad to tell you that we are now having our third intake in class. The reporting started on 17th January 2025. Fifteen students have arrived to begin their study in the word of God.

All in all the school is going well and classes are running smoothly. 

Thank you so much for all the support you give to let us run this work smoothly. 

May the almighty God bless you. 

Six new students start classes in Trinidad

Greetings to all. Happy New Year!

Classes began January 6, 2025, with our six first-year students. They pursued Sign Language, the gospel of John, Ezekiel, and the Christian Home. These six students from Trinidad (3), St. Lucia (1), and Grenada (2) have meshed into one of our most cohesive classes in recent years. One of the Grenadians is originally from St. Vincent and the Grenadines, giving a nice cross-section of the Caribbean.

After completing about three months working in a neighboring congregation, they worked in the Panco Lane congregation, where they conducted the song services for the month of January.

January also saw the beginning of another Master's Class. Six students, which rapidly expanded to eight, took the beginning classes. Denton Landon conducted the classes here in Trinidad. They are now working on all the assignments.

Kathryn Purdom

Students resume classes in Gweru, Zimbabwe

                                                             JANUARY 2025 NARRATIVE REPORT

INTRODUCTION

We always give glory and honour to God who gives us the ability and zeal to advance the cause of His kingdom. The new year brings with it some renewed vigour to work for God and be busy in His vineyard. At the same time, we are always grateful when we look back in the month of January and see the hand of God in a number of areas. To Him, we remain grateful. This report gives a glimpse to some of the activities that transpired in the month. Classes began successfully, the youth transit program commenced well while the materials for the classroom block continued to be gathered. These and more are reported in detail below;

TERM RESUMES

The current term began on the 7th of January. All students who had taken a well-deserved rest returned to continue with their studies. The following subjects are being taught this term: Christian Evaluation of Contemporary Ethics, Wisdom Literature, Denominational Doctrines, Prison Epistles, Peter and Jude, 1 & 2 Corinthians, 1 & 2 Thessalonians, Sign Language, Entrepreneurship Skills Development, Horticulture and Greek 1. A chaplaincy and broiler-production workshop will also be done.

YOUTH TRANSIT PROGRAM

The youth transit program that the school hosts every January took place from the 7th January and will end on the 7th February. The following main issues were at the centre of program; moral development, career guidance, entrepreneurship skills development and doctrinal aptitude development. Core modules included the New Testament church and its worship, Christian Ethics, Denominational Doctrines, Study skills, Career Guidance and Entrepreneurship Skills Development. The youths were being prepared for life in college or university. Since the church loses a number of young people at this stage, it is hoped that this program will assist the youths to remain faithful and be agents of change to their mates.

PROJECTS UPDATE

The much anticipated cattle project officially took off this January with arrival of two heifers and a calf. One heifer was bought last year and gave birth to a calf whilst the other was bought in early January. Great appreciation to brother W. Manyati and I. Machingura for giving the seed to purchase the first cow whilst Woodland Oaks enabled the purchase of the second one. The next task is to get another heifer and a bull. These are small beginnings and a lot can be expected from this project.

The goat herd currently stands at 12. Five were slaughtered in 2024 alone. We are hoping the goats will increase in 2025. The school is also running a broiler and layers project. On the horticulture side, there are about 1600 plants in the greenhouse with almost the same number outside it. The school has maize, cabbages, green paper and butternuts as well.

CLASSROOM & OFFICE BLOCK PROGRESS

To date 34000 of the 35000 bricks needed to finish the structure have been bought. Pit sand, river sand, concrete stones, brick force, dump course, doorframes and cement were bought. Great appreciation to all who have contributed towards the construction of this structure. With these materials and others being mobilized, we are assured of completing the superstructure and fixing the roof. Builders are expected on site around the first week of February. Subsequent reports shall be highlighting the progress being made.

CONCLUSION

As we start this new year, we would like to thank everyone who contributed this far, one way or another, to BVBIZ, that is, materially, financially or morally. Your support this year will also go a long way in training workers for the Lord. The school could not been where it is now without your support. Our gratefulness will not be enough without Woodland Oaks and Bear Valley Bible Institute International. May the God of heaven remember you all as you do your part in the furtherance of this noble work.

New students begin classes in Zambia

Introduction

New Year’s greetings from BVBI-Zambia to you all brothers and sisters in the Lord and master Jesus Christ!  We hope and pray that you had a wonderful experience in the first month of the brand new year. We continue to pray that you have a year that is filled with things that mean most to you and energize you for a happy and healthy 2025!

The school has resumed classes besides the disturbance of cholera outbreak in Zambia especially in Lusaka province. All our students have come back in one peace and eager to complete their final year. We have had a good beginning of the year looking at the activities that took place with both our current student body and our Alumni. 

BVBI-ZAMBIA NEW SCHOOL YEAR

We have started with fifteen new students for 2025-2026 intake with two married students David Musmuko and Trust Siamachila. The rest thirteen are singles and come from five provinces of our country Zambia with the following names, Daliso Mbewe, Fenwell Sichoonda, Chalikosa Elvis, Lenard Chanda,Peter Chivumba,Warry Skalomo, Samwel Zemba Misheck Kapalu, Rupiya Masiye, Charles Mwape and Matthews  Chileshe. The school is going on well and we are very confident that we have another good year of teaching and preparing preachers. 

Our visitor

We were so delighted to meet with our Extension Director Keith Kasarjian from our main campus in Denver USA. Though it was just a one day visit we shared a lot as school administration and he also had time to teach our students on the Importance of Preaching. His visit was a great encouragement to us and we were invigorated.

In the same capacity we are looking forward to the coming of our Country coordinator Donnie Estep who we are expecting to visit in March this year. We just wish the two servants of the most High the blessings from above. 

New babes in Christ

We have recorded three (3) Baptisms in Luanshya through the preaching of our new students. And we have recorded one in Kanfinsa constituence of Kitwe where Boyd and Jally are preaching. We also recorded two from Northern province through Levy Silungwe and Reaben Museka In Mbala together we have recorded five (6) baptisms. God bless the new addition to the Church

Restorations

We visited Mufulira district on the copperbelt where we also distributed gospel literature at Church of Christ in Kamuchanga Township. Nine (9) restorations were recorded eleven souls had promised to be in worship service the following Sunday service. We gave contacts of every soul we came in contact with to the leadership of the church there. We also recorded three (3) restorations in Lusaka province where Daniel Manyoni our former student is preaching in Mtendere. On the same development sixteen (16)  souls in Baluba  Chibwe where Prince Chisupa, Joseph Musonda and Austin combined effort in preaching. Six  (6) restorations where recorded in Southern province were TRyvin, Abiton and Daniel our alumni are preaching now. Together we have had twenty (34) restorations. 

.Conclusion

May our God continue to bless you for Loving God, our prayer is always that those we train would like to see them all develop into great leaders in the Church of our Lord. Winning souls is our business, may God be with you always as we labor in His vineyard.

In His service,

Cephas and Fred

A great year in Arusha!

Grace and Peace to you friends. 

I hope that your year is off to a great start!  Today I’d like to offer you some highlights from the past year and an update on the special request that was made last month.  

2024 By the Numbers

Bible Training

• 21 Total Undergraduate students at ACSOP 

• 6 Bachelor’s Degrees Earned

• 12 Total Graduate students 

• 4 Master’s Degrees Earned  

• 6 Total Cy Stafford School of Leadership students 

• 4 Graduate of the Cy Stafford School of Leadership (Alpha Class)

• 3 Kisongo Bible School students 

Evangelism

• 483 Baptisms   

• 4 New Congregations

• 2 Restored Churches 

• 302 Restorations  

• 107 Seminars

• 1 Lectureship

Camps

• 216 campers at Tanzania Christian Camp

• 19 Baptisms

• 75 Campers at Future Preachers Training Camp

So many wonderful things happened in the Lord’s service in Tanzania this year, but I have to say that one of my favorite moments was seeing the first graduating class of the Cy Stafford School of Leadership.  Our team has been working toward that goal for several years now, and it is thrilling to see it beginning to produce.  I’m proud that two of our very first graduates are the co-directors of ACSOP, Charles and Ahimidiwe.  They’ve had the opportunity to learn and model leadership at the same time, and their involvement demonstrates the confidence that we have in the new program.

Thank you for being a part of the team through your prayers, support, participation, and encouragement. May God bless you!

Till all have heard,

Daniel Gaines
Mission Coordinator

Students in Tamale, Ghana value their education

BEAR VALLEY INSTITUTE OF BIBLICAL STUDIES, TAMALE - GHANA

DECEMBER 2024 OPERATING REPORT

The year 2024 ended gracefully by the special grace and mercies of God. We must admit God has been faithful to us in Tamale and by extension the Bear Valley Family. We must all therefore give glory to God for all the privileges granted us. We agree with the Psalmist in Psalm 107: “Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good and His steadfast love endures forever!” The Lord indeed has been good to us all. May His name be praised in all the nations!

KPALSI SOUTH CHURCH OF CHRIST

In the month of December 2024, the congregation in Kpalsi South had been joyful to receive one successful baptism. A dagomba Muslim brother who happens to be a casual plumber, the school heeded to the gospel of Christ and was converted successfully to the glory of God. We praise the Lord for this great blessing.

BENEVOLENCE: In the efforts of the local church in Kpalsi South in evangelizing and strengthening members internally, a benevolent activity was carried out successfully in the month of December. It was a great time, seeing smiles on the faces of needy people within and across our neighborhood. We pray the Lord touch the unsaved who were and have been benefiting from these physical blessings from the Lord to accept the gospel of Christ Jesus with time. It is our desire to do our best to make an impact in the city of Tamale and its neighborhood with the message of Christ. Oh God, help us.  

SCHOOL GARDEN

We have started getting some vegetables from our irrigation work done in the school garden. The results are very positive and if we in the future could make a good investment on our irrigation efforts, we have a good support coming from there for the feeding of our students.

ACADEMIC ACTIVITIES

The last course to end the two year run of the 2023/2024 batch of students was taught in the month of December, 2024. This course was taught by Brother Shadrack Oppong. Brother Oppong is one the sound and strong preachers from the southern part of Ghana. He taught Bible Geography.  

BIBLE CAMP

Brother James in the month of December 2024 participated in a Bible camp in Bazua in the Upper East Region. He was the main speaker of the event. The theme of the programs was centered on “Miracles in the Past, in the First Century Church, and in our Time. The program was well attended across the region. Brother James took advantage to campaign for students for the school.

We thank you Jesus for your protection for the year 2024.

Thank you,

Bear Valley Tamale

Mining souls in the Copper Belt of Zambia

December, 2024 

Introduction

We send seasonal greetings to you all brothers and sisters!! It is always a pleasure to have our time of writing this report and we always give honor and glory to God through our master and savior Jesus Christ who has given us the opportunity to work in His Kingdom. We write to highlight on the work as we ended the month of December in the year 2024.

We must mention that we have began and welcomed the new year of 2025 on a very effervescent note; very hopeful of good things to be learned. We pray for a fruitful year in His vineyard.  

Highlights of December

We as BVBI-Zambia have ended the month of December with several success which gives as a reason to say thank you heavenly Father. Here on the copper belt province we have had a good number of meeting with the seven congregations of which four are in Luanshya district and two in Mpongwe district, one in Masaiti District, our interaction with leaders and members have been a promise of the best relationship we are experiencing right now. It will improve even more

As we got deeper in the month, we took advantage of the festive season positive mood of wanting to do more for the Lord by many non Christians including Christians themselves. Women on the copper belt met in Luanshya and Ndola respectively and we as the Institute where there to coordinate their meeting, there was a spirit of excitement as they learned the word of God. It was an open meeting to the community too. They were hundred and ten in total who attended the meeting with seven (7) restorations.

In Kitwe we had the youths who assembled to evangelize in the community for one day and our former students where there to lead in doing the work for our master, Boyd Kalaba Jally Siawaza and Gershom Chansa did a wonderful work. They were two hundred and sixteen in total who gathered to hear the message and when evangelists went out for practsl work two (2) baptisms recorded and five (5) restorations.

We also had same meeting which took place in Zimba and Livingstone of southern province ,were four of our former students was in attendance and taught their fellow youths, In this meeting we had a record of eight (8) baptisms which were done by Daniel kapata working together with Tryvin and Abiton Siamachila. This was a perfect combination for our master’s work and the results were great. On the same development Vincent in Livingstone is doing a good work seven hundred youths gathered for one day in order to strengthen a work relationship of the Church in that area it was a great thing to see them preach as we begin the New Year.

 The planting season:

 When this season began we almost got the same experience as that of 2023/24 drought but, According to the National Metrological department of Zambia forecast of 2024/2025 rainfall season, the rainfall amounts are likely to be normal to below in most of parts of the country. And beside our busy schedule to preach, we are taking time also to make use of this season to plant seeds in the ground. We have planted soya beans, beans, maize and some sweet potatoes.    

Baptisms/restorations

We had a total of thirteen Baptisms. And we recorded twelve restorations. Please continue to pray for us and our former students as we do the work together and Zambia at large. 

Conclusion

We continue to believe that the school is on firm ground to training faithful men who are teaching others to remain and continue in His kingdom of light. Without Christian principles, we continue to give a special thank you to our amazingly supportive family and friends of Bear Valley Bible Institute-International and the Church of Christ at Woodland Oaks in Texas; you are always in our prayers!

In His service,

Cephas and Fred

Producing results in Gweru, Zimbabwe

DECEMBER 2024 NARRATIVE REPORT

INTRODUCTION

Training and development of workers for God’s vineyard continued in the month of December. Students who went on break continued to be active in their home congregations whilst others went for a thirty-day holiday attachment. The parallel class, on the other hand, continued its classes. There were developments as well on the projects side. The gathering of materials for the classroom and office block is gathering momentum.  These and more are reported below.

HOLIDAY PREACHING

All students who went on break remained active in their home congregations. Reports of their work from their local resident ministers, members and leaders have been very encouraging. Four students chose to forego the holiday and chose to go and work with congregations for 30 days on an attachment basis. Their work has been wonderful. Great appreciation goes to these congregations and resident ministers for providing accommodation, transport and food for these students. The effort saw 11 being baptized, 25 sermons preached and over 65 lessons taught to prospects.

END OF YEAR STATISTICS

The following statistics are a summary of the work done by students as they did their practicum in 2024. These statistics are captured from the students’ reports.

Total hours                               2925    (in evangelism)

Sermons preached (church)     350

Sermons preached (funerals)   8

Devotions conducted               320

Bible classes taught                 185

Baptisms                                  92

Restorations                             15

Prospects                                  2003

Counselling sessions               45

Hospital visitations                  18

WBS courses distributed         320

Tracts distributed                     1170

Congregations started              1

 THE PARALLEL PROGRAMS

The parallel class which meets during weekends and whenever the Gweru class goes on break met during the December block. The first class with 10 students took place at Nhowe where the BVBIZ director was the teacher. The subjects taught there were Denominational Doctrines and Hermeneutics I. These subjects will continue in February. The second parallel class with 8 students came to Gweru campus and were taught Christian Ethics by Ismael Mutichu and Christian Evidences and Greek by Kudakwashe Madyira. Greek is an ongoing subject. These two classes will commence their supervised practicum from January 2025 until their graduation in 2026.

CLASSROOM & OFFICE BLOCK UPDATE

Progress toward the construction of the classroom and office block was registered in the month. The following individuals/families honoured their pledges in December; Manjeya family $95, Nyoni (W) family $20, Zungunde family $25, Mpofu (S) family $50 and Mashaire Family $100. From these amounts and those raised in October and November the school has so far bought 15 cubic pitsand and 14 000 bricks at a cost of $2155. More materials will be bought in January.

 PROJECTS UPDATE

Projects remain a key component in the training and development agenda of BVBIZ. Not only do they assist the school on the income side, but students are exposed life survival skills as well. In terms of poultry, the school has broilers and layers. In terms of horticulture, notable progress made in December with the planting of a tomato crop both in outside the greenhouse. A total of 3200 plants were planted. We also planted 600 cabbages and about 1500 butternuts. Green paper and green beans will be planted in early January.

To improve on the viability of the projects, BVBIZ has engaged Gray Ndoro, one of our former students, to oversee the running of the projects. Though he is engaged elsewhere in Gweru, he will be at BVBIZ on Saturdays and Sundays whilst he operates remotely during the week. Soon after graduating at BVBIZ in 2001, Grey went to Rio Tinto Agricultural College where he graduated in September 2024 with a Diploma in Agriculture.

CONCLUSION

Finally, we thank God for the journey travelled. We appreciate everyone who stood with BVBIZ throughout the year. Your efforts made a huge impact to many people in the country. We also thank Woodland Oaks and Bear Valley Bible Institute International for their unwavering support. To the teachers, students, board and the church, thank you. Several local partners who collaborated with BVBIZ, one way or another, thank you. We keep wishing all of you a blessed, spiritually fulfilling and prosperous 2025. To God be the glory!

South Sudan school flourishing

Greetings to you all and happy Merry Christmas and New Year!

My prayers that God will guard and protect us to see what the new year awaits us all!.

Some of our 15 students are doing fruitful jobs delivering the knowledge they have gained from school to their varies congregations.

We conducted 8 campaigns:

* 6 in Aweil area by 2 students that resulted to 11 baptisms.

 * 2 in Juba which resulted to 1 Baptism 

* There were 2 new congregations planted; one in Aweil called MALOU-CHUAI CHURCH OF CHRIST and one in Ayuai area called MANKIIR CHURCH OF CHRIST.

We now have 3 new teachers that will be part of us in teaching which make our number as 7 teachers. The school will open in January 10th and classes will start on 13th January Monday 2025 to May 2025. Attached below are the photos of students participating at the church activities, teaching, compaign and baptisms.

We the teachers and members of Lord's church in South Sudan 🇸🇸 appreciate and give thanks to the Bear Valley donors and administration, not forgetting God who make all this possible.

May God bless us all to continue do his work!

Regards 

Jacob Ajak.M

BV-SSSOP.

Looking at a bright future in Malawi

Hello, everyone!

It is amazing to recall what God has done to us and how we have managed to achieve many things in the year 2024. As the year goes to an end, on behalf of BV school in Ekwendeni, Malawi would like to send seasons greetings to you all!

The year-end report has been already send to Donnie, who will send it to BV international. As Ekwendeni school, we plan many things every year without knowing the future, but one thing we know is that God is in the future and because of this understanding, we have hope for 2025 as well. We will always plan for the future!

 Evangelism

As we are waiting for our classes to start on the 3rd February 2025, we are receiving good news from our former and recent graduates. We have some news reported to us by brothers Chitekwe, Takesure, Saliwa and Alex that through their effort in preaching this month of December the good Lord has added 17 souls to the church and 14 more souls restored. We are always proud of our graduates for the good work they are doing in the congregation they worship. Gaod bless their families.

 Trip to Lilongwe!

I was excited to be Lilongwe from the 2nd to the 6th of this month of December. Brother Dale and his family hosted me as I taught the book of James through that week. I enjoyed my time with them and also was encouraged the way the students showed cooperation with me. All went on well.

We are always thankful for the partnership between BV international and Hillcrest church for the support we received every month. This helps us greatly to achieve many things at school and also in our families. God, keep on blessing you and your families, too. We pray that this continues for the betterment of the Lord's church as many men need to be trained and souls be saved. Eternity Is Forever, Think Souls!

Yours sincerely 

Ephron and Clergynton

Students in Nsawam, Ghana continue to Work

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE, NSAWAM, GHANA

FOURTH QUARTER REPORT, 2024

Introduction

Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. Glory to God for His mercies throughout the year. The following were our activities for the fourth quarter of 2024.

Classroom Activities

Three courses were offered this quarter: Hebrews, taught by Brother Wisdom Yirenkyi; Greek, taught by Brother Samuel Papa-Woode; and Church History, taught by Brother Aidoo.

Church Impact

Our students continue to impact their congregations, through the preaching and teaching of God’s word. Two of our students were part of a team of preachers who organized a lectureship in the Amasaman area to combat certain teachings that want to creep into the churches here in Ghana. Brother Aidoo was invited to speak on prayer at this lectureship. Long may this continue.

Loss of Student

Amidst all the highs, there was one notable low this quarter. On December 10, we lost William Danso, one of our older students to the icy hands of death. William worked as an auto-sprayer and had a fatal accident in his line of duty. While we grieve the loss, we won’t sorrow as hopeless people. We will continue to live and work to God’s glory and hope to see Brother Danso again in the sweet by and by.

Plans for Next Year

1.    Quarterly community radio preaching: We will continue the community radio preaching program which we began last year as a means of giving the students another avenue for practice.

2.     Church planting: Our efforts at planting a church at Akotoshie in Accra in 2024 were not successful due to certain negotiations that failed. We hope to overcome the hurdle and plant the church in 2025.

Student Profile

Brother Shadrach Ojun is our student profile for this quarter. Baptized in 2007 at Kpanda in the Oti region of Ghana, he has grown to become one of the Lord’s strongest workers in this part of the world. Brother Ojun works with the World Bible School and moves especially from school campus to school campus encouraging Ghanaian students to enroll in the program to study God's word. He worships with the Nsawam Road church of Christ in Accra and is an indispensable part of the missions committee. Concerning Bear Valley, Brother Ojun insists that the school stands in the truth and “isn’t biased” when it comes to issues. We are so happy and grateful to have him with us.

Conclusion

We are grateful for Bear Valley’s assistance during this quarter. We pray for God’s blessings in this regard. And brethren, please continue to pray for us.

Success Reported from New School in Jirapa, Ghana

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE, JIRAPA, UPPER WEST- GHANA

FOURTH QUARTER 2024

INTRODUCTION

With hearts full of gratitude, we celebrate God's presence in our lives throughout this quarter. Here are the keys that place in our noble institution.

SCHOOL ESTABLISHMENT

Our school was formally established on November 24, 2024, in Jirapa, Upper West Region, Ghana. The ceremony was graced by Brother James Legend, Administrator of the Tamale campus.

Brother Donzie Thomas was appointed as the Director, tasked with overseeing the school's growth and development.

CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES

During this quarter, we successfully conducted a single course. First Corinthians was taught by Bro. Joseph Anaba, with 12 students in attendance.

CONCLUSION

Our heartfelt thanks go to Bear Valley Leadership and the Brotherhood for founding our school and providing vital financial support. We pray that God richly rewards their kindness and generosity.

Reported by Bro. Thomas.

Students in Ashtown, Ghana work with Nearby Churches

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE, ASHTOWN – KASOA, GHANA

FOURTH QUARTER REPORT, 2024

INTRODUCTION

We express our heartfelt appreciation to God for His unwavering support throughout the year. Here is an overview of the notable happenings at Bear Valley Bible Institute, Ash town during the fourth quarter of 2024.

CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES

This quarter, our students had the opportunity to take five courses. During the December holidays, students seized the chance to catch up on additional courses. Forty (40) courses have been completed so far. We were grateful for the instruction provided by our dedicated teachers:

- Bro Emmanuel Gyasi Quansah taught Church History. 

- Bro Samuel Papa Wood led the Greek 1 course. 

- Bro Emmanuel Larbi instructed the classes on Congregational Development and Major and Minor Prophets. 

Notably, four students from the Papaase campus had already completed the Major and Minor Prophets courses, so the remaining students took this opportunity to catch up. In total, eighteen students participated in these courses, demonstrating their commitment to their studies.

CHURCH STRENGTHENING 

From November 7th to 9th, the school embarked on a mission to strengthen the church Adom Estate planted the previous year, as plans to establish a new congregation were put on hold. During this period, students engaged in:

- House-to-house evangelism, sharing the Gospel with local residents

- Preaching at the information center, spreading the message to a wider audience

This outreach effort aimed to revitalize and support the existing church, fostering spiritual growth and community engagement.

BAPTISMS 

We rejoice in the Lord’s blessings! This quarter, our students have played a pivotal role in leading seven individuals to baptism. Their dedication to sharing the Gospel has borne fruit, and we praise God for these new additions to His kingdom.

STUDENT PROFILE: ALEX GYASI

Born on May 11, 1984, Bro Alex Gyasi is a 40-year-old devoted Christian from Akim Pramkese in the Eastern Region of Ghana. He is happily married to Patricia Awuah, and they are blessed with three children.

By profession, Bro Alex is a tiller. He has been a faithful member of the Lord’s church for 23 years, currently worshiping with the Krispol City congregation in Kasoa, where he serves as a preacher. The congregation comprises approximately 40 members, excluding children.

Bro Alex expresses his gratitude for being part of Bear Valley, stating that he has gained in-depth knowledge of the Word of God, which has been a valuable blessing in his life.

UPDATE ON MANKOMEDA CHURCH OF CHRIST

The Mankomeda Church of Christ, planted by Bear Valley Bible School (now merged with Ashtown School as of August 2023), continues to grow. Under the leadership of Bro Daniel Kwadwo Nkrumah, a graduate of Bear Valley Bible Institute, the congregation has made notable progress.

The church currently consists of 23 baptized members, with women making up the majority and 17 children. 

As we enter the new year, we will prioritize the needs of the Mankomeda Church of Christ in our planning, ensuring the continued growth and development of this vibrant congregation.

UPDATE ON ADOM ESTATE CHURCH OF CHRIST, KASOA

Although I was unable to visit the Adom Estate Church of Christ this quarter due to my commitments at Pakro Road Church of Christ in Nsawam, I received encouraging reports from the church secretary, who Is also a student at our school.

Key Developments:

- Church attendance remained strong throughout the quarter.

- Bro Kingsley Paul Oti, a Bear Valley alumnus, has been appointed as the congregation’s preacher. We pray for God’s wisdom and guidance as he undertakes this new role.

- The church has successfully acquired its own electricity meter, enhancing its lighting system.

- Starting January 2025, God willing, the congregation plans to hold evening meetings.

We continue to pray for the growth and prosperity of the Adom Estate Church of Christ.

PLANS FOR NEXT YEAR

1. Congregational Outreach and Recruitment

We intend to visit congregations in Kasoa to:

- Advertise for new students

- Engage church leaderships on the importance of planting more churches in Kasoa

2. Church Strengthening

Our focus will be on strengthening two key congregations:

- Adom Estate Church

- Mankomeda Church 

3. Leadership Development and Unity

To foster growth and unity, we plan to organize a Leadership Seminar for church leaders in Kasoa. This event aims to:

- Equip leaders with valuable insights and skills

- Promote the school’s mission and values within the Kasoa church community. 

CONCLUSION

We extend our deepest gratitude to Bear Valley Leadership and the Brotherhood for their unwavering guidance and support throughout the year. May God richly bless and restore them any sacrifice made.

Reported by Larbi. 

Studies continue in Lima, Peru

Greetings dear brothers and sisters

Once again I come to you with some report notes regarding the courses that have been given in the last two months and the next two that are about to be given.

Last two months we taught “The Life of Jesus IV” and the “Epistles to the Hebrews”, these courses have been taught by Brother Abraham Alata and by myself (Juan Abanto). Once again it has been a gratifying experience and one of much learning for both the students and the instructors.

We have had a total of 17 students in this last two months, many more brothers have awakened their interest and desire to take classes at the institute. We hope in the Lord that these numbers continue to grow. We continue to do what is necessary to ensure that this is so.

This Saturday, January 4, we will begin two new courses, I am referring to “The Pastoral Epistles” and “Foundations for the Missions” with Abraham Alata and Andres Nuñez as instructors.

On the other hand, the teachers of the institute were invited to participate as speakers in the last annual intercongregational conference, which was attended by around 120 people. It was a pleasant experience of instruction and communion and an opportunity to talk a little more about the institute.

We appreciate the spiritual and material support to make it possible for this ministry to continue. Please continue praying for us.

Bearing fruit in Accra, Ghana

Bear Valley Bible Institute – Ghana, Accra

Monthly report- December 2024

As we conclude the year 2024, we reflect on our initiatives and activities at the Bear Valley Bible Institute (BVBI). December has been a month of growth, outreach, and preparation as we look forward to the new year.

Classroom Activities  

The month of December began with two short courses with Bro. Shadrack Oppong on personal evangelism 2 and Bro. Kojo Acquah-Beenyi on New Testament Church II (The New Testament Worship)

Radio Program 

Our radio program continues to be a vital outreach tool for us, allowing us to connect with the community and share the Gospel. Weekly Broadcasts: our topic for the month is still on the church of the Bible, specifically on the New Testament Worship. Audience Engagement: We saw an increase in listener interactions, with many reaching out via phone calls and social media and to share how the program has impacted their lives.

Evangelism at Bedeku

Our evangelism efforts at Bedeku have been a significant focus this month, with several successful initiatives:

Community Outreach Events: We organized two evangelistic events, which attracted over 500 participants. These events included one week evening public preaching and house-house outreach activities aimed at establishing a new congregation and strengthening a near-by church.

Training Sessions: Our faculty conducted training sessions for local leaders and volunteers, equipping them with effective evangelism strategies and resources to continue the work in their communities.

Follow-Up Efforts: We initiated follow-up visits to those who attended our events, resulting in several new contacts who expressed interest in learning more about Christ and the church.

Campaign for New Students: 

In preparation for the upcoming academic year, December was dedicated to our campaign for new students:

Promotional Materials: We created and distributed brochures and digital content highlighting our programs, faculty, and the unique opportunities available at Bear Valley Bible Institute.

Open House Event: We hosted an Open House, attracting prospective students and their families. The event included congregational and campus tours with faculty to attract potential students.

Scholarship Opportunities: We promoted scholarship programs available for incoming students, incentivizing applications and providing financial support for those in need.

Planned Visitation

Looking ahead, we have several planned visitation initiatives to strengthen our community ties and outreach efforts:

Scheduled Visits:  we have visited the Batanyaa and Amissakrom Ekroful congregations in the central Region of Ghana, our presence motivated them and as a result we had one brother Christopher Arhin baptized. This is being done to bring local congregations established by the school to come together and assist in evangelism, church strengthening and encourage partnership and support.

Alumni Engagement: We are planning a reunion for alumni in January which will include workshops, networking opportunities, and a chance to share how BVBI has influenced their ministry work.

Conclusion 

December 2024 has been a fruitful month for the Bear Valley Bible Institute, with successful outreach initiatives and preparations for the new year. We are excited about the impact of our radio program, the progress made in evangelism at Bedeku, the response to our campaign for new students, and the upcoming planned visitations. As we move into 2025, we remain committed to our mission of equipping leaders for service in the Kingdom of God.

We remain grateful to our partners, alumni, and friends’ prayers, encouragement and financial contributions

May the Lord bless our endeavors as we strive to fulfil our mission.

By E. O. Larbi (Director)

Cape Coast school continues to grow

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE, CAPE COAST

REPORT FOR FOURTH QUARTER OF THE YEAR

DECEMBER 2024

The Bear Valley School in Cape Coast has finally completed three years of academic work as at the end of the year. By hard work and perseverance the school has managed to grow from its initial setbacks of limited resources and enrollment and is now brooding and flourishing with much attraction.  We praise and thank God for helping and guiding us to achieving such a wonderful feat. We are also grateful to our benefactors who are constantly and expeditiously responding to our needs. God bless them indeed.      

OVERVIEW

The Cape Coast Study Center is arguably the fastest growing of the Bear Valley schools in Ghana. Starting with just a little over ten students in February of the year 2022, the school keeps on attracting students from across the region. Our numbers now stand at 35 after two drop outs and the death of one of our students. 

Two prospective students have picked up forms to commence studies with us in January of next year as this report is being prepared. It is our hope that more students will be joining our ranks for deliberate and effective biblical studies.

We also hope to graduate the first batch of about 12 students by the end of the second quarter of next year. These students have completed almost all of their course work and are currently trying to complete a few ones they have not taken yet.  

Lecturers from other church of Christ Bible schools have also expressed various interest in our school and their documentations are currently under review for onward approval from our coordinators. The improvement in our students’ work rate, participation and output in their various congregations is a testimony to the good works we are putting in here as we keep attracting interest and attention of the people of the central region. Brethren from all around the region keep calling to make inquiries about our programs and activities. 

As stated in earlier reports, the school is fast gaining notoriety with very sound Christian doctrine at the heart of everything we do here.

COURSES 

As at the end of the December 2024, we have successfully completed 34 courses from our course outline and syllabus. We have also entered 33 of those courses successfully in our data system which forms part of the students’ academic records. We are currently waiting on one of the records from our external lecturers. Hopefully it should be ready in our report for the first quarter of next year.  

In this fourth quarter, we were able to complete these courses: WORLD RELIGION, ELEMENTARY GREEK AND CHURCH HISTORY. We hope to continue with studies in: INTERTESTAMENTAL PERIOD, CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP AND DENOMINATIONAL DOCTRINES in the first quarter of next year.   

PROJECTIONS FOR NEXT YEAR / FIRST QUARTER

As a school we have strategized and agreed on some evangelistic missions in the next quarter. We have had some practical training for the students, and we will be kicking off in MARCH. We hope to invite and collaborate with preachers and church leaders who are closer to this place to help augment our activities during our evangelism drive next year. 

ATTENDANCE TO BIBLE CAMP

The school went on recess in the third week of December. This was because our host church was preparing to attend the annual gospel meeting in another district. Students were thus encouraged to attend this program to familiarize with activities at this program and also to meet seasoned gospel preachers. 

It was a great joy as students were able to attend this program to the amazement of our Ghanaian Coordinator, Brother Kojo Acquah who is one of the Chief Patrons at this program. We hope to keep using such opportunities to learn anytime the chance comes. 

STUDENT PROFILE

BRO YAW ANDERSON

BROTHER YAW ANDERSON was born to Madam Elizabeth a Ghanaian mother and Peter, an Ivorian father in the central region of Ghana. He has lived most of his life within the Cape Coast metropolis of Ghana.  He had his elementary education in Ankaful, but later completed at Apewokisa. 

He continued with his secondary education at the Efutu secondary school, a rural settlement just after the main Cape Coast township in the central region Ghana. 

Yaw has always been athlete and played football for all his school teams. He continued with his footballing even after completing his secondary education with the hope that he could turn a professional one day. 

He believes Isaiah 55:8 had a good influence in his life when he was not making the breakthrough in the football world. He currently works as a house manager in a hostel facility in the University of Cape Coast. 

Yaw is happily married to Matilda with three children. He hopes to become a very resourceful gospel preacher travelling throughout Ghana to spread the message. He currently preaches on a local radio station.

He is a very serious student, especially with his research works. His relationship with other students is excellent and communicates very well with all. He is always participating and contributing in class discussing. Yaw promises to be one of the finest gospel ambassadors when he completes his studies here with us. 

DANIEL BIRIKORANG

DIRECTOR

CAPE COAST STUDY CENTER