JULY 2025 NARRATIVE REPORT
INTRODUCTION
BVBIZ is in its practicum season. Much of this report revolves around the student and the field. In July, one congregation was established, 33 souls baptised, 4 restored back to the Lord, and over 250 reached with the unadulterated Word of God. These and more, are explained in greater detail below.
1.0 TERM ENDS
The students’ fourth term ended successfully on the 13th of July. The term ended with campaigns at Mutora Growth Point and Mazowe. Great appreciation to all students and teachers for mutually working together to ensure that the term was a success. The following subjects were taught and completed successfully: Church Leadership, Christian Spiritual Formation, Marriage and Family Development, Greek II, Research Methods, 1–3 John, Advanced Homiletics, and Church History. Further, every effort was made in preparing the students mentally, spiritually, and practically for the practicum, which was due to commence on the 6th of July.
2.0 THE BULAWAYO INVITATION
On the 4th of July, BVBIZ students and teachers left campus to attend an all-night service at the Bulawayo Central congregation. This marks the second time wherein the school is invited to such an event. Other congregations were also invited for this service. All speakers were our students, whilst a few had the opportunity to lead in songs. This is always an uplifting event for all attendees and the school. Great appreciation to the Machingura and Mlangeni (Jnr) families for providing supper and breakfast, respectively, to the BVBIZ team.
3.0 CAMPAIGNS
Every term, BVBIZ undertakes one to two campaigns, which are geared towards providing students with several competencies needed in the field of ministry. One campaign was held at Mutora Growth Point in Midlands, whilst another was held at Mazowe in Mashonaland Central.
3.1 MUTORA CAMPAIGN
From 7 to 13 July, 2025, half of BVBIZ students and staff conducted a dynamic evangelism campaign in Mutora Growth Point, Gokwe Nembudziya, with the goal of planting a Church of Christ congregation. The team was composed of experienced preachers who included brothers Mutichu, Madyira Jnr, Madyora snr, Kufa, Mubi, Mupanduki, Tiyani and the six student evangelists. They engaged in various outreach activities, including door-to-door visits, open-air preaching, evening services, and school-based Bible studies. These efforts reached over 50 households and several schools, culminating in the baptism of eight individuals and the successful establishment of a new congregation. The campaign was well-received by the local community. A donated PA system from the community enhanced the effectiveness of public preaching, and Bible materials were distributed to interested residents. Despite the success, the busy nature of the Growth Point poses challenges for consistent church attendance and spiritual focus. Continued support and discipleship are essential to ensure the congregation’s growth and stability. The campaign demonstrated the power of field evangelism as a core element of BVBIZ’s training and mission.
The positive outcomes of the Gokwe Nembudziya campaign highlight the importance of collaborative ministry and community engagement in church planting. The involvement of ministers from nearby congregations—such as Gokwe Centre, Shurugwi, and the local area—provided credibility and encouragement to the new church. Evangelists not only preached but also built relationships, laying a foundation for long-term spiritual development. The logistical support, including the PA system and Bible materials, played a crucial role in reaching a wider audience. However, sustaining the momentum will require strategic follow-up, regular visits, and prayerful commitment from everyone. Zivanai Mubi, a 2024 graduate, will temporarily oversee the church and follow up with all those who were reached throughout the campaign. The young man requires financial support to keep the work alive. The institute remains dedicated to the planting of new congregations and views this campaign as a testament to the effectiveness of BVBIZ’s hands-on evangelism. As Romans 10:15 reminds all those who care the lost soul, … those who bring the good news carry a beautiful mission—one that BVBIZ continues to fulfil with passion, tenacity, and purpose.
3.2 MAZOWE CAMPAIGN
As the Gokwe team left BVBIZ on the 7th, the Mazowe team left campus on the 6th around 3.30am for Mazowe. The team was led by the director and the Mazowe resident minister, Lovemore Manyanhaire. The team arrived in time for the church service and received a warm reception from the local church members. Despite travel challenges, the team was welcomed with enthusiasm and immediately engaged in worship, with various students leading the service. Bro. T. Mabika delivered a powerful sermon encouraging spiritual vigilance whilst the Director outlined the week’s mission, urging collaboration with the congregation. The service concluded with a call to restore fallen members and attract new converts. This marked the beginning of a spiritually charged week of evangelism.
The evangelism campaign commenced the next day. As with all BVBIZ campaigns, nearby preachers are invited to provide some experience to the students. Those who came include brothers Munhupedzi (Glendale), Tengulachepa (Mvurwi), Nyamombe (Seke) and Muzoma (Concession). Brother Howard Suwari, one of their teachers, later joined the team as well. Each day began with a devotion and ended with a devotion. The team divided into three groups to maximize outreach, employing strategies such as door-to-door visits, open-air preaching, evening services, preaching at Police parades and school assemblies. Open-air sessions proved especially impactful, drawing large crowds in public spaces like bus stops, school grounds, market squares, where sermons on salvation and baptism were delivered with clarity and conviction. The Pact Missionaries-donated PA system beamed to the ear of everyone far and near. The speakers spoke without fear whilst the other team members distributed tracts, attended to questions and further elaboration to any who dared to ask. This fostered meaningful engagement with the community. Evening devotions followed each day’s outreach, offering spiritual nourishment and inviting locals to worship. These services featured inspiring sermons and uplifting hymns, culminating in the baptism of seven souls. The campaign left a lasting spiritual impact on the Mazowe community, strengthening the church and demonstrating the power of united ministry. Great appreciation to the local preacher, his family and the church for taking care of everyone.
4.0 FIELD PROGRAM (INTENSHIP) UPDATES
BVBIZ students on the conventional class undertakes one year supervised practicum whilst the parallel class takes a minimum of two years to do the practicum. Field practicum officially began on the 14th of July. The parallel class continued to make progress in the field baptizing 8 prospects in the month. With the 2024-2026 Full time class also in the field, total baptisms reached 33 with 4 restorations. 0ver 170 prospects were reached with the word.
6.0 TOILET UPGRADES
Two of the school’s toilets in the hostel were upgraded. This has been a waited development by students so as to ease pressure on the available toilet seats. 5 more are needed in all the toilets.
7.0 UPCOMING PREACHERS’ RETREAT AND AGM
From 14 to 17 October, BVBIZ will host its annual Preachers’ Retreat—an event open to all active field preachers. The program aims to rejuvenate and re-empower those ministering in the field. On the 18th of October, the school will hold its Annual General Meeting (AGM). All stakeholders are invited to this key meeting to deliberate on institutional matters. The following reports will be presented and discussed:
· The Chairman’s report
· The Director’s Report
· The Treasurer’s Report
8.0 BVBIZ MAY 2026 STUDENT RECRUITMENT
BVBIZ has begun recruiting potential students for the 2026-2028 intake. The school can only accommodate a few students, so applicants are encouraged to apply early to avoid missing this great opportunity. Couples are also welcome to apply. Applicants must submit the following documents:
• A handwritten application letter
• A copy of their national ID
• Copies of academic certificates
• A recommendation letter from their congregation
To meet the application requirements, interested candidates can download the application form from www.bvbiz.co.zw or request it via WhatsApp at 0773993773 or 0788847063. The completed application form, along with the required documents, can be submitted via email to admin@bvbiz.co.zw orbearvalleybibleinstitutezim@gmail.com. Alternatively, applicants can send their forms through WhatsApp to 0773993773 or 0788847063. We have scheduled the first round of interviews to take place during the National Youth Lectureship (14–17 August) in Bindura, and again during the Men’s National Lectureship (21–24 August) at the BVBIZ campus.
CONCLUSION
July marked a transformative shift as activities moved beyond the classroom and into the field—where these trainees truly belong. As a vital stepping stone toward their future work, the BVBIZ internship program equips graduates with the practical skills and spiritual depth needed to thrive. Thanks to their dedication, the guidance of their teachers and other supervisors, and the support of our partners, a new congregation was established, and 33 lives were joyfully brought to faith. The next report will share the progress and impact of the second month of this field journey. To everyone who contributed—through partnership, financial support, and encouragement—your role is deeply appreciated.