Tenth anniversary to be celebrated in Gweru, Zimbabwe

SEPTEMBER 2026 NARRATIVE REPORT

INTRODUCTION

September 2026 was a month in which BVBIZ held nothing back. From the moment the 2026–2028 class returned to school on 8 September, students, lecturers and partners gave their utmost. In the classroom, ten subjects are being taught with commitment and purpose. In the field, our practicum students logged more than 500 hours across eight sites, reaching 181 prospects with the Word, teaching 158 lessons and seeing 18 people baptized. At home, generous partners filled our storerooms and strengthened our projects. As we look ahead into October, a series of defining events will take place, that is, a Preachers’ Retreat, the school’s tenth anniversary, and the fifth graduation ceremony. This report records what was achieved in September, sets out what lies ahead, and shows gaps needing assistance.

1.0 CLASSES RESUME

The 2026-2028 class came back from a well-deserved rest on the 8th of September and classes resumed in earnest. The following subjects are being taught this term;

Homiletics                                            M.Muchingami

Hermeneutics                                       M.Muchingami

Horticulture                                          G.Ndoro and J.Dube

Acts of the Apostles                              I. Mutichu

Old Testament History                         I.Mutichu

Sign Language                                      Rutendo Foundation

Music                                                    J.Jubane

Prison Epistles                                      I. Mutichu

Galatians                                               H.Suwari

Introduction to Computers                    I.Mutichu/Guest teacher

2.0 PRACTICUM UPDATES

The 2024–2026 class carried its practicum through September with relentless energy. Our students took the Word to prospects, visited the sick in hospitals, counselled the troubled, visited prisons and took part in community programs. They strengthened Christian homes through visits, led devotions at school assemblies, preached in churches and at funerals, distributed literature and taught Bible classes, among many other activities. The results speak for themselves: 181 prospects were reached with the Word, 4 brethren were restored and 18 people were baptized. Since May, the cumulative record stands at 71 baptisms, 31 restorations, 944 lessons taught and 1,210 tracts distributed. Every figure reflects long hours, long journeys and wholehearted service. Sincere appreciation goes to the congregations and individuals who continue to provide accommodation and food to students during their practicum. Appreciation is also extended to the experienced preachers who work alongside the students.

3.0 DONATIONS

September brought generous gifts, with each one being a timely encouragement. Nhowe Mission donated 10 bags of maize, a consignment that will help feed our students for more than a term. The Chitendeni family, also based at Nhowe Mission, gave 10 road runners (free-range chickens). The couple are part of our part-time class and saw a need to strengthen the school’s effort to grow a road runner project; the gift was a timely boost. Finally, the Chiwewete family of Jubilee Church of Christ in Mutare gave a carton of rice and milk. The school remains deeply grateful for these gestures and continues to welcome any donation that can help meet its many needs. May God bless all those who extended a hand in September.

4.0 UPCOMING EVENTS

4.1 PREACHERS RETREAT

The school, in conjunction with its ambassadors, will hold a Preachers Retreat from the 13th to the 15th of October. The theme of the event is Celebrating the Past: Commissioned for the Future. Preachers are invited to attend this important program.

4.2 HYBRID AGM AND TENTH ANNIVERSARY

The year 2026 marks ten years since the school’s establishment. This is a significant milestone worth celebrating. During the occasion, the school will honour those who have played a part in bringing it to where it is today. All partners, funders, BVBIZ alumni, community members, past and present board members, past and present staff, and organizations are invited to attend the celebration, which will take place on the 16th of October from 1400 hours. During this event, the school board will also present brief reports for the year 2025.

4.4 GRADUATION

BVBIZ warmly invites all stakeholders, church leaders, church members, and the friends and family of the 2024–2026 class to its 5th graduation ceremony, scheduled for the 17th of October 2026. The ceremony will be held on the school's campus, beginning at 9 a.m. A graduation lecture titled the Isaiah Suwari Memorial Graduation Lecture will take place on the 16th of October 2026.

CONCLUSION

September demonstrated what a committed partnership can achieve. Classes resumed, more than 500 practicum hours were given, 181 prospects were reached, 158 lessons were taught, 18 people were baptized and 4 were restored. Alongside this labour, the generosity of Nhowe Mission, the Chitendeni family, and the congregations that host our students kept the work moving forward. To every student, lecturer, partner and well-wisher: thank you. October is a decisive month. We invite you to join us at the Preachers’ Retreat from 13 to 15 October, at the tenth anniversary and AGM on 16 October, and at the graduation ceremony and fundraising program on 17 October. We continue to invite you all to give toward our fundraising program on the 17th of October as well. Your partnership is highly valued.