In Memory of Tawn Lork

As we complete the final week of 2010, please remember to pray for the Lork family in Cambodia. Chann and Sokchea Lork’s brother, Tawn, died after injuries received in a motorcycle accident over the weekend.

Chann and Sokchea have been instrumental in the work of the International Bible Institute of Siem Reap, an extension of the Bear Valley Bible Institute of Denver. Their efforts have been vital in the development of the school and also the work of the church in the northern area of Cambodia.

Tawn was on his way to evangelize the Preah Vihear province in Cambodia. Chann, Sokchea and Tawn have all been involved in the development of the Lord’s church in Cambodia. Tawn will be greatly missed by friends, family and his spiritual brothers and sisters in Cambodia and around the world. Pray for their family during this time. 

The loss of Tawn is a reminder of the fragile nature of physical life. It reminds us of the value of each precious soul and the glory of an Almighty God who has prepared a place for His people. The provision God has made through His Son, Jesus the Christ, gives hope of a far better reward than can be received in this life. For this reason, we labor and serve to help others know this same hope.

We weep with the Lork family in the loss of a son, brother, husband and father. We also rejoice in the victory Tawn has achieved in crossing over to the promise of our wonderful Savior. We should remember the words of Paul, “your labor is not in vain in the Lord,” 1 Corinthians 15:58. Tawn’s work was certainly not in vain and has impacted many.

Coordinator Updates

Reports from the coordinators are now located on the website, under Staff Reports. The address is /extension-schools/

Extension Reports

Cameroon Makes #15: Read more about the the Cameroon Bible Institute of Wotutu, CBIW. 

Cambodia Harvest: The physical harvest in Cambodia brings hopes of a spiritual harvest. Read more!

Bible Studies Continue in Tanzania: Read more about the work of the Andrew Connally School of Preaching in Arusha, ACSOP.

Final Thoughts

We are pressing ahead into 2011 with plans for greater growth in training men to preach the gospel. With 15 schools, we will be working to make sure each location has the provisions needed to be successful in teaching each student.

As we close for the year, we want to tell each of you how much you are appreciated. The development and success of Extension Training depends on the generosity demonstrated by you.  

Thank you for seeing the benefit of this work. 
Thank you for praying for the success of each location. 
Thank you for stepping up with the financial assistance needed.
Thank you for filling specific roles needed in coordinating, teaching, and encouraging everyone involved.
Thank you! 

I pray “God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”

God bless

Bob

Cameroon Makes 15!

Next week marks the beginning of the 15th Extension School with the Bear Valley Bible Institute. The Cameroon Bible Institute of Wotutu will open its doors to 20 students on Monday, January 3rd.

The director of the CBIW, brother Elangwe Esowe Gregory, has labored diligently to make all the arrangements to begin the school. The staff and student body are ready to begin the curriculum designed to prepare these men for greater service in the Lord’s kingdom. More details about the opening ceremonies of the school will be in future reports.

Cambodia Harvest

Greetings from Siem Reap of Cambodia.

It's cool weather now in Cambodia and it's also the time for our people to harvest their crops after months of waiting.

The work is going well, we tend to help our brothers and sisters in gathering their crops when we have opportunity.

I have a schedule to teach a young christian man to become an influence among his family and his relatives, in that we might have an opportunity to start up a congregation at his home or some where around his village, if Lord's willing.

Also, some of the members were influenced by their job that turned them away from God by the pressure of their boss. One of our brothers was stopped from his job because he has no time to worship and take holidays. He asked us to pray for him as he is decided to be faithful to God rather than his work. Now he moved to Phnom Penh to work there and he also has a chance to worship with the church up there. He asked us to pray for him and I think it would be great if you can send him an e-mail or a text. His e-mail is pisethsol@yahoo.com or you can encourage him on Facebook.

We planned to have a local leadership workshop in January to improve our work and strengthen our faith. The purpose is to share experiences and find out what we should do to improve the work and get more souls and establish more congregations in the areas that we are focusing to establish.

Thanks for your support, ideas and encouragement to us and the work.

God bless you all with the work you are doing.

Bible Studies Continue In Tanzania

Cy and Stephanie Stafford are presently in the States raising funds and on a furlough trip. The latest report from Jimmy Gee about the work in Arusha, Tanzania is below.

Dear Family, Friends and Supporters,

We hope all of you have enjoyed some special time with your families this past week.  In our modern busy world, even here in Africa, carving out some time to just be with family can sometimes be a challenge.  I hope you are excited about the New Year, with new goals and a renewed spirit to obey God with every fiber of your being.

Last week, the "bad stomach problems" concerning Trina was actually "amoebic dysentery". For specific details you may look up the definition.  It's usually acquired by eating some contaminated food or drinking "bad" water. Abigail, Candace, Elijah and Naomi were also affected but they recovered quickly because we noticed the symptoms early and began their medicine immediately. Trina’s bout with it led to an overnight hospital visit. Thank you for your prayers. Trina has fully recovered. A special thanks goes to our good friend, Ahimidiwe, who drove Trina to the hospital. Also, Abigail was indispensable because she went with Trina to the hospital, stayed overnight getting only 2 hours of sleep and helped in so many ways.  For several hours Trina was so weak she could not walk and needed assistance to get up and down.  Another note of thanks goes to our daughter, Lindsey, who stayed with all the younger children and did a good job of taking care of them.  

Another Lindsey who we want thank is Lindsey Jensen (daughter of George and Joy).  Without regard for her own health, she cheerfully came and stayed with Trina several hours until she was dismissed so Abigail could go home and get some rest.  At times like these, it's great to have a wonderful family and good friends who care. True Christianity in action.

Our apologies to Brooks Boyd and daughter, Caitlyn, who we failed to mention last week when listing the visitors who came for Tanzanian Christian Camp. The Boyds were a vital part of everything.  Brooks preached both Sundays and was a counselor and teacher during the week to the campers. Caitlyn was a counselor and teacher for the 14-16 girls.  Caitlyn and her father supervised and organized the soccer games for the youth.  Thank you for your contribution!

The Bible study with our neighbor, Katherine went very well and we began studying the subject of "Seeking God."  It was thrilling that another friend of hers (and acquaintance of ours), Witness, was also there helping her with her baby.  So Witness was also able to listen to our study.  We will meet again next Friday.

Studies continue with Lembris and wife Rosemary.  The crowd at Kisongo was smaller today...I know 2 families who were visiting their family in other places.  Three people responded to the sermon. Two asked for forgiveness for unfaithfulness in their attendance and one that he had been quick to anger. 

This Saturday will be the first session of the Child Training class. Our plans are to meet the first Saturday of each month from January to December.  With only having 12 lessons (one for each month) there is much to squeeze into each lesson.  Please pray the most needed subjects will be covered in a biblical and an easy-to-understand way.

We appreciate each one of you very much.  Thank you for giving us the privilege of being here in East Africa.

In Christ, The Gees

Time Is Of The Essence...

The clock of 2010 is quickly running out. As I think about the number of people in this world who have not heard the gospel I realize the critical nature of time and the need to move the work of extension training forward. 

Statistically we are told 1.8 die every second. By the time it takes to read this report, approximately 1,000 people will leave this earth to stand before their Creator. Sadly, most, if not all, will be unprepared. How will we most effectively answer the call of the Great Commission? 

I am not challenging the benefit of our traditional approach to mission work. Rather, I would like to see us build upon the work accomplished by so many who have and continue to sacrifice the comforts of home to labor in foreign fields. Training men in their own country, in their own language, to teach their own people has proven to result in greater levels of success. For this reason the Bear Valley Bible Institute wants to use the time we have been given to advance the work by training men to preach the gospel throughout the world.

We plead with you to consider how you can be involved in greater ways to help us carry out this work. Monthly support and/or one time donations do so much in helping train men to preach. You can make a difference for many souls.

As the year comes to an end, we are focusing our attention on further development of the work in 2011. We need you!

We do not leave 2010, however, without acknowledging all we have seen develop. Classes were taught in every level of the program. Students graduated and began working in the kingdom. International congregations began taking more financial responsibility in helping support their preachers. Groundwork was laid for the development of new schools in 2011. 

There has been several positions developed and filled within the program. We now have an Assistant Director, a Director of Development, new coordinators, additional teachers, new congregations and individuals are supporting the program, and plans have been made for the greater development of the work overall through the years ahead.

Thank you for all you have done to help us in the Extension Program. We look forward to a successful year ahead. With your help, +/- 220 men will be better equipped to take the glorious gospel of Jesus to a world lost in sin. If you want to be more involved, please contact me at bturner@bvbid.org or call the Bible Institute at 303-986-5800.

Coordinator Updates

Reports from the coordinators are now located on the website. These reports will be located in the Staff Reports section. The address is /extension-schools/

Extension Reports

Andrew Connally School of Preaching

The Tanzania Christian Camp was a great success. Read the latest report from Jimmy Gee here.

Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies

A Family Reconciled is a powerful story. Read Steven Ashcraft's report about his recent life changes and the work of the school in Tamale, Ghana, West Africa.

Final Thoughts

We are winding down for the year. It is incredible to think about all that has been accomplished in 2010. I am excited with the plans for the work in 2011 as it continues to grow overall.

The success we have enjoyed and the future of this work is all to the glory of God. I also want to acknowledge our gratitude for each of you for the way you have supported the work. Without your generosity and dedication, in so many areas, this work would not exist. Thank you.

I want to close with wishing all of you the best of the holiday season. I hope it is a wonderful time filled with the joys of family and friends, both physical and spiritual. I look forward to keeping everyone informed as the work develops.

God bless

Bob

Tanzania Christian Camp...

Dear Co-Laborers, 

The second-annual Tanzania Christian Camp came to an end yesterday. Ben Thompson, John Rice, John Watts, Burt Fuller, Kelsey Fuller and Morgan Fuller all came to Tanzania to make sure this event was a success. (It was a joy to see old friends and meet a new one, John Watts). There were over 70 campers in attendance, including four of our children, and several African brothers and sisters served as counselors, teachers, cooks, etc. There were four young souls baptized into Christ during the week and all heard sound Bible teaching and therefore were edified in their faith. We are thankful to God for the love and care shown by all who made this wonderful week possible. The good folks named above should be in the air on their way back to their families and friends as I am writing this. Please pray for their safe travel.

Our next visitors will be arriving on January 20. In the mean time we will do some resting and prepare for classes to be taught beginning the end of January. Also, I will be making a trip to the US to work on some schooling.

For those who are not on Facebook and did not know it already, Trina was in the hospital overnight Tuesday and into the late afternoon on Wednesday with bad stomach problems. She got dehydrated, so they admitted her to give her fluids and antibiotics by IV. Thankfully she is much better, just still a little weak. That is part of the reason why I (Jimmy) am doing the report this week instead of her. Thanks for all the prayers offered on her behalf. Some of our children, who also had the same thing, did not have it as bad because we caught it in time and knew what we were dealing with.

That is all I have for this week. I am sure Trina could have written more and been much more creative, but alas, the report can’t be perfect every time. Ha Ha  Thanks for all you do to make it possible for us to be here!

In Christ,

Jimmy, Trina and the Kids

A Family Reconciled...

Greetings from all of your brethren in West Africa.  The work is continuing on the other side of the ocean as I have been reporting to many congregations here in the United States of America.  A lot has happened since the last report both in my personal life and in West Africa.  

Tamale Institute

Over the last few months the reporting for the school in Tamale has been going through the Bear Valley Bible Institute extension school website.  I apologize for not sending those reports to those on my email list, or at least providing the link where they could be found.  I will attach the reports for the months of October and November to the email version of this newsletter.  Future reports can be found here:  /extension-news/.

Later in this report we will discuss the various needs for the school of preaching in Tamale for the upcoming year.  If you are able to help with any of these specific needs please let me know.

New Relationship with Bear Valley

During the month of October the following is a portion of an announcement that was made by Bear Valley Bible Institute:

Steven Ashcraft is now serving in the Extension Program as a full-time coordinator.  Extension training is not new to Steven.  He was instrumental in helping establish the work of the Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies in Ghana, West Africa.

Steven will be actively involved in coordinating the work in Tamale.  He will also coordinate the work of the West Coast School of Preaching in Takoradi, Ghana.  Steven’s ability, along with his experience, provides a skill set that will continue to have a great impact on the direction of the work in Ghana.

In addition, his vision of the extension work in all of West Africa will provide an element to aid in the growth of the program. As additional contacts are made and plans unfold, we look forward to seeing more men throughout all of West Africa have the opportunity to prepare for the greatest work.

A Family Reconciled

As discussed in the last newsletter, a family has been reconciled.  On October 23, 2010, after nineteen yearsapart, Steven Ashcraft’s marriage was reconciled to the love of his life, Karen. However this was much more than the reconciliation of a man and his wife, it was the reconciliation of an entire family. Our children, Jess and Nina, were witnesses to the marriage ceremony, and we have all resolved that we will work together so that our family can begin to grow together once again.

As we discussed in the previous newsletter, the work in Ghana will continue.  We will be working together with all of the congregations who are supporting this work, and Bear Valley Bible Institute to expand and edify the kingdom throughout West Africa through the training of new and existing leaders, and empowering these Christians to work among their own people.  May the Lord continue to bless our marriage, our family, and the work in West Africa.    

Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. (1 Corinthians 15:58)

Special Needs for the Work

As the work progresses in West Africa, we have numerous needs for the work where you may be able to assist:

Preacher in Northern Togo – The brethren in Togo would like to plant a congregation in northern Togo.  There is currently no congregation of the Lord’s church in the extreme north of that country.  A recent graduate of a preaching school in French speaking Benin is prepared to move there if he can obtain support for his family.  If you are interested in helping this man to plant the Lord’s church in this area, please let me know.

Health Insurance – My recent change in marital status and responsibilities means that I need to raise additional support including obtaining health insurance for my family.  

Student Support – With a new class beginning in May of 2010 at the Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies, we are attempting to raise support for some of these new students.  We are presently anticipating a class of 24 students with a cost of about $100 per month per student.  Can you help to support a preacher student? 

Books – We need to raise money for Bible dictionaries which can be purchased in Ghana for our fifteen graduating students at $30 each.  We need study Bibles for our twenty-four new students.  We would like for all of them to have the same New King James Version.  We also need to raise funds to buy books for the library in Tamale.     

Bibles – We are continuing to buy and distribute Bibles in the native languages of the Christians in Ghana.  You have helped us give away thousands of Bibles over the last few years.  A Bible can be purchased for $3 to $10 depending upon the language. 

Building Project in Tamale – We continue to need funds to finish the building project in Tamale.  We currently have about 8,000 square feet that is ready to be roofed, and another 3,000 square feet where the foundation has been completed.  We anticipate that we will need to raise another $25,000 to $30,000 to finish out these buildings.  This will include what is necessary for plastering, painting, windows, and doors.

Prayers – We need your prayers for the success of the work and the safety and health of the workers.

Please ask how you can help with any of the above.Brethren in the village Tigo send their greetings

Moreover, brethren, we make known to you the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia: that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded in the riches of their liberality. For I bear witness that according to their ability, yes, and beyond their ability, they were freely willing, imploring us with much urgency that we would receive the gift and the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. (2 Corinthians 8:1-4)  

Financial Support

We want to thank all of the supporters for their contributions to this exciting work in West Africa.  Without you, this effort would not be possible.  All checks need to be made out to:

Mountain Home church of Christ
For: West Africa Mission

And mailed to:

Mountain Home church of Christ
P.O. Box 880
Mountain Home, AR  72654

Any questions can be directed to the church office at 870-425-4330. 

Or you can contact Steven at:

Email: samtnhome@yahoo.com

Steven Ashcraft
P.O. Box TL 925
Tamale, Northern Region
Ghana, West Africa 

Please email Steven if you would like to receive this newsletter by email. 

Thanks So Much,
With Christian Love

Steven Ashcraft
A Family Reconciled

It's All In The Landing...

I have flown numerous times over the last 18 months in working with the extension program. Rarely, and I mean rarely, do I have any concerns in the take off of the plane. Generally speaking, the approach does not phase me much either. However, it is all about the landing.

I have been on board domestic and international flights alike. I know the inside of a “puddle-jumper” and first class on Boeing 757 or the Airbus 330. There are times the landing is smooth and times when I am thankful to just be on the ground.

The purpose of the article is not to talk about flying, strangely enough. However, we are approaching 2011. Our approach is found in working to complete the final elements of 2010, wrap up the needed areas, and make certain everything is in place to begin a new year. As we make the final approach, I remind myself it is all in the landing. 

Everyone who shares in the work of Extension Training knows how important it is to make proper preparation before beginning a new work or a new year. There are challenges in shoring up financial support in each location. Transitioning to a standardized curriculum adds a degree of difficulty. Recruiting, evangelistic campaigns, graduations, etc. all emphasize the need for a good landing.

Beginning the new school in Cameroon presents the need for establishing curriculum, securing student room and board, qualified staff, as well as, making sure all of the “t’s” are crossed and “i’s” dotted, if you know what I mean. We have nearly every piece of the puzzle in place to kick of 2011 with the beginning of the 15th Extension work for the Bear Valley Bible Institute. I look forward to reporting about the development of the work in Cameroon as they begin their first class of 20 students.

As we land 2010 on the tarmac of the runway in history, it is only a formality to the takeoff for 2011. Here is where the future will unfold the will of God for our lives and the direction of the work. I would like for you to consider the following.

Please pray for the overall success of the program and the purpose of training preachers in 2011.

Remember to express gratitude for the measure of growth we continue to see around the world. I know the future will hold more than we can imagine.

Please share the news of the work with everyone on your e-mail list.

Consider how you can be more personally involved in the program, perhaps a specific area you would like to support or visit.

Coordinator Updates

Reports from the coordinators are now located on the website. These reports will be located in the Staff Reports section. The address is /extension-schools/

Extension Reports

Tanzania Christian Camp was a huge success. Read Jimmy Gee's report.

East Africa continues to grow. Cy provides more information about the growth.

Gorlovka, Ukraine just finished several successful evangelistic campaigns. Read more here.

Final Thoughts

To express my appreciation for you is an understatement. We have nearly completed 2010 and we are ready for 2011. The work could not be more exciting. As schools are added, graduations place men in the field, and work in each location grows, the space will be filled with powerful reports.

Thank you for your dedication to see the work continue. Your prayers, encouragement, support, and willingness to share, provide renewed zeal in the lives of men here and around the world. I look forward to sharing the news each week as it unfolds.

God bless

Bob

East Africa is Growing!

Greetings Fellow Workers,

We hope and we pray this note finds you on the right side of life, blessed by the Lord in all the right ways and that prayers are being answered in your lives. We have so much to be thankful for, so many people to be thankful for, so may blessings we simply say thank you and thank God for each of you. 

God is blessing His work here in East Africa in so many ways. As most of you know, I will be leaving for the States (if God wills) tomorrow night (Tue.). After more than a month of separation from the love of my life, I can hardly stand the wait! It will be a challenge to keep this Short Report within our intended "one page", do to so many good things going on, but we will do our level best. 

Our good brother Thomas (a graduate of the ABS) is now in the process of planting a new congregation in the village of Longido, just before you get to the Kenya border. David Bayi taught him the Gospel in 2005. His wife was taught the Truth by Mike Reese while here teaching in the ACSOP. Please remember him (them) in your prayers, that God will grant them success in this endeavor. 

Received a report from our brother Innocent (evangelist for the Monduli cong. and graduate of the ACSOP) informing us that Dr. Emanuel obeyed the Gospel. Innocent also serves as chaplain for the Tanzania Christian Clinic, operated by Danny and Nancy Smelser (Stephanie also volunteers there two days a week).  Danny, Nancy and Innocent have studied with Emanuel for several months, now God has given the increase. 

Another of our graduates, Charles Ogutu reported two souls being added to the Kingdom this past week. Charles is serving in the western part of Kenya. 

Isaac Kusupa (graduate of the ABS) spent one week helping the congregation in Mwanza. Due to the generosity of a Christian couple in AL, the funds were made available making the evangelistic trip possible. Two souls were added to the Church as a result of this effort! Praise be to God!

David Bayi reported another soul giving her life to the Lord at Kioga! 

A husband and wife, Lembris & Rosemary obeyed the Gospel this past week at Kisongo. Thank you Jimmy Gee for taking the time to study with this family, now we have a new brother and sister in Christ. 

As mentioned last week, we had 39 young boys hosted here at Kisongo for the forth ann. "Future Preacher's Training Camp". The good being done through this camp is almost unbelievable. Two young men gave their life to God through obedience to the Gospel. Our sister in Christ Harriett's son, Ishmael (age 16) and the nephew of Charles Heberth (graduated of the ACSOP and head of our translation team), Boniface (also age 16).

And the good news just keeps on coming! Due to the grace of our God, the answer to many prayers, Stephanie's mother, Exel, was discharged on Fri. after  a month in the hospital. One her way home she was baptized into Christ and is now, not only my mother-in-law, but my "sister in Christ". To God be the glory, GREAT things He is doing. 

Note: Stephanie and I will be in the States from the middle of Dec. through the middle of Feb. We are available to come and report on the good work taking place her in TZ. If your congregation would life an update, please drop us a note or give us a call that we might set an appointment.My contact phone number wile in the States is: 601.310.6170 

Note: Please remove our old e-mail address: stafford@bol.co.tz and replace it with our new one: tz2000team@gmail.com

May our God be with you, bless you and use you up in His service. Stephanie and I wish each of you a very happy and healthy holiday season and we pray God blesses you with a better 2011 than you had in 2010! 

In Him,

Cy & Stephanie 

Successful Campaigns in Ukraine

Greetings dear brothers, 

I hope everything is fine with you. We constantly pray for you and your work in the Lord’s fields. 

Last month (November) was very eventful in different ways.  

First of all, we had evangelistic campaigns in three cities – Ilovaisk, Krasny Liman and Gorlovka. We divided our students into groups of 4-5 people and during the week they helped the local congregations. In my opinion, the most blessed city was Krasny Liman because, as the result of four days evangelistic effort, 5 new visitors came to the church. In Gorlovka and Ilovaisk there were no new people but the evangelism encouraged the congregations a lot. 

Secondly, we finally installed the compensational tank and turned on the heating system, but when the tank was heated up to 60° C the weld cracked. At present, the specialists are trying to fix this problem. So far we are heating the building with oil and hot air heaters. 

Thirdly, last Sunday we went to Dokuchaevsk (the city is 100 km south from Gorlovka) to visit the local congregation of the church of Christ. The congregation there is not big, about 10-11 people. We established some very friendly relationships with their preacher (his name is Sergey), worshipped together and did the BV presentation. Sergey said that they have a young man who wanted to study in the Bible Institute. However, that day he was absent in the assembly being at work. So, hopefully, we have a potential student for the next year. 

At the time being Albert Bagdasaryan, Viktor Semikos, Andrei Zhuravlev and I are teaching the classes. It’s a great support for me to have these spiritually mature brothers. However, if you have some instructors from the States who may be willing to help us, we’d be only very glad.  

Also, there is not so good news from the central congregation in Gorlovka. The family of Viacheslav and Valentina Rozumnyaks decided to leave the congregation here and they joined the congregation where Valeriy Kolchik is preaching. Please pray for them.

All students and instructors send their big hello to you. We are looking forward to Howell and Mary’s coming. Thank you, brothers, for your help and support for the Bible Institute and my family. We need our prayers always.  

The TV news announces that after the New Year day we are to expect some increase on utilities’ rates.  I hope it won’t happen. 

May the Lord bless you abundantly! 

Your co-worker in the Lord’s fields,  

Dennis 

TCC - Tanzania Christian Camp

Dear Co-Laborers,

"Greet every saint in Christ Jesus."  Greetings in Tanzania are very important.  Many local people spend several minutes in greetings toward one another, the Maasai tribe being especially famous for their long, extended ones (sometimes lasting an hour or more).  Up until recently, the Maasai language was only a spoken one (the reason many Maasai cannot spell words in their own language).  I was told that it was considered rude to simply ask a stranger for the time or ask directions without first greeting them and asking how they are.  My observation is that Americans are more task-oriented and Tanzanians more focused on following protocol and are friendlier to others for the most part.  Both cultures would do well to "move a little closer to the middle" on this issue.

"Let no man despise your youth..."  Saturday brought to a close the 3rd Annual Young Preachers Camp, where young men (ages 15-25) were taught how to compose and deliver a sermon, lead prayers and lead singing.  This camp, begun by Roger Shepherd (now of Montgomery, AL), is now being conducted by the Tanzanian Christians.  This type of growth is very encouraging.  A young man, Ishmael, was baptized into Christ while attending. We are always thrilled when one decides to follow Jesus but we are especially excited for this 16-year-old son of my friend, Harriett.  His mother (who has had many challenges in her life) has been a Christian since Ishmael was about 3 years old.  However, his father is Muslim.  To have hope that Islam will not be spread any further in this family is certainly refreshing. Ishmael also plans to attend...

Tanzania Christian Camp.  Eight Americans (John Rice, Ben Thompson, John Watts, Brooks Boyd and daughter Katelyn, Burt Fuller and daughters, Kelsey and Morgan) arrived safely Friday night in order to conduct TCC at the Andrew Connally School of Preaching. This morning at Kisongo, Ben, a former missionary to Tanzania, taught the Bible Study for the men and Brooks preached an excellent sermon on the subject of Christian Growth.  Katelyn taught the children's class on "The Prodigal Son" and Trina taught the Ladies on the "Consequences of Sin" using Genesis chapter 3 as the basis.

"And the Lord added to the church daily"...Yes, more wonderful news: Lembris and his wife, Rosemary, were baptized!  Studies continue with them to better ground them in the faith. It was thrilling to see them at Wednesday evening services and in both Bible class and worship this morning.

"But if there is no interpreter, let him keep silent..."  Unfortunately, that's what Trina had to do...cancel her Bible study on Friday morning with her neighbor, Katherine, due to the translator being very sick.  We will re-schedule soon.  Katherine is the wife of Ziaka, a Christian and one of our part-time guards.  They have a precious little 3-month old son named Nicodemus.

"I thank my God upon every remembrance of you..."  You, our supporters, are the "life-blood" of this mission work.  "You" are at every baptism, every Bible study, every class taught, every sermon preached and every Ladies or Children's Bible class.  "You" are at the new churches being planted and "You" go with every student as he graduates to spread the Gospel in new areas. Thank you for your confidence and support. 

In Christian Love,

Jimmy & Trina Gee

Assistant Director...

I am excited to announce the appointment of Keith Kasarjian to the position of Assistant Director in the Extension Program. Keith has been involved with the extension program since it began in 1997. He has worked in the area of teaching in nearly every location where extension schools exist. His experience in foreign travel, ability to teach, sound foundation in the faith, and work as a coordinator made him the right choice for this position.

Keith has primarily served the last few years as coordinator for the Comprehensive School of Management and Technology in Abakaliki, Nigeria. Prior to his work with the school in Nigeria, Keith taught and assisted in nearly all of the extension locations. You can read more about Keith’s credentials and work here.

As the program continues to grow, the need for experienced administration will grow. We are all thankful for Keith’s willingness to assume the responsibilities of this position. His desire to assist in the work of training men to preach will serve the program well. If you would like to contact Keith, you can write him at kkasarjian@bvbid.org. 

As you have already noticed, the report this week is full of news from around the world. Please take time to read the updates on each of the locations reporting. As always, I continue to be encouraged by the work of so many faithful brethren to train faithful men to preach the gospel. Continue to join us in prayer on behalf of these men and their locations of service to our God.

Coordinator Updates

Several reports were sent from coordinators in the program. Each report provides information about the activities of each of these men 

Read about the work in Chimala in Howell Ferguson's latest report.

Donnie Bates has also included his report about the work in Honduras.

Extension Reports

Kathmandu, Nepal

Gajendra Deshar's report shows growth from the short course taught. Read more here.

Report on the Nepal Center for Biblical Studies Extension School

Rusty Dawson recently returned from teaching in the Nepal Center for Biblical Studies. His report and assessment of his time in Nepal is found here.

Siem Reap, Cambodia

The work in Cambodia is exciting and continues to grow. Read more about the work. 

Visakhapatnam, India

The preacher's fellowship in India is seeing growth. Read more about it in the Visakha Valley Bible College report.

Andrew Connally School of Preaching

A Future Preacher's Training Camp is about to begin in Arusha. Read Cy Stafford’s latest report here.

Final Thoughts

Just a closing word of thanks. I will never be able to adequately express how much your support is appreciated. It takes everyone working together for the success of this program. Without God working through each of you, it is not possible.  Thank you.

God bless

Bob

A Teacher's Assessment

Report on the Nepal Center for Biblical Studies Extension School

Introduction:

I was honored to have the privilege of teaching I & II Timothy and Titus at the extension school in Nepal during the week of November 8-12, 2010.  Along with the seven students, some twenty to twenty-five visitors attended the classes. The experience for me was unforgettable and very valuable.  There are so many things which I have taken for granted because  my experience in the church has been limited to the United States.  Teaching one week in Nepal has changed that a great deal.  I am grateful to the church of Christ at Little in Oklahoma, the Nepal Center, to Bear Valley, and especially to Jerry and Judy Golphenee for making this experience possible.

One problem with reporting on my week in Nepal is that my experience there was also very limited.  Anyone reading this report should understand that it is impossible to have great insights after only a few days of exposure to the school and the culture.  Anyone who believes he has a good understanding of the church in Nepal or the impact of the school should realize that such understanding can come only from a more intimate and long term arrangement than being a guest speaker for a week.

Having said that, I also believe even a guest speaker can learn many things and gain some insight into the present and the future of the school.

Guest Teachers:

I believe there is a great value in having guest teachers visit and teach at the school.  A foreign teacher is an occasion for brethren to gather from across Nepal and associate for that time of special teaching.  The fellowship may well be more valuable than any special information gained.  The visit also seems to be a special encouragement for the students.  It is important for all of us to have a global concept of Christianity which comes to us best when we actually “rub elbows” with brethren from around the world.

I am still assessing the value of the trip personally and for the work in Nepal.  I would certainly return if I were able to do so.  In some ways, the cost of the trip could be used instead to provide for teachers, students, and local preachers in Nepal.  However, I am afraid that too often we send our money and not our hearts to the work of God’s kingdom.  

I believe some consideration should be given to ensure that guest speakers are a boost, an encouragement, and a relief for the work of the teachers at the school.  If the  guest proved to be a drain on his hosts, I’m not sure there is an easy way to let him know that so he might improve.  Constructive criticism is difficult to give and receive, and no one would want to discourage a teacher.  However, a simple evaluation or “report card” might be a valuable for guest teachers.

Students

I was very impressed with the learning level of the students at the Nepal Center.  Jerry did a great job in preparing me for the challenges of teaching them.  As the week progressed, I believe I learned to ask better questions in order to draw out insights from the scriptures.  Because of language barriers and some cultural aspect of the learning process, I took a while to fine tune my teaching approach.  The students were very patient with that process, and I believe they gained some insights into the books of Timothy and Titus.  One advantage of having teachers return to Nepal is that the previous experience should make them much more effective in later visits. 

I am not used to teaching long hours in a school setting, so I was impressed with the students’ ability to stay focused on the learning tasks and to absorb the material.  I was surprised that we were able to cover all three books in the time allotted, but I believe we learned together about setting the church in order and how to be good servants in the kingdom.

I prepared a workbook to guide my teaching and supplied one for Jerry and Gajendra.  That was valuable for me as a teacher, but it would have been helpful for the students to have a copy.  I realize some of the difficulties in translation and 

know it was impossible for the students to have that material in time for my visit. I am not offering a criticism but perhaps a plan or dream for the future. If the school could develop some simple workbooks in Nepali, for the students to take to their work after graduation, I believe this would be valuable.  Probably the work of the school is overwhelming enough to preclude such a work in the near future, but it is possibly a goal for later.  The preachers of Nepal might be involved in such a project to great advantage.

The School

My impression of the school is very favorable.  I can see great potential in sending out students to preach the word with a firm foundation of training in the scriptures.  I can also envision the critical role of the school in the future of the church in Nepal.  The fact that many local preachers came together for a week of study and fellowship is a good sign for future unity and growth. 

I look forward to hearing of progress being made by future classes.  Jerry emphasized the need for the Nepali brethren to send good students to the school in order to prepare them to preach.  I hope and pray that that the reputation of the school and graduates will establish a tradition of good men with good hearts preparing to serve God in Nepal.

Administration

Gajendra and Jerry seem to be a great team for directing the school.  Gajendra is very kind and gentle and is a wonderful model for the students (and everyone) of what the Lord’s bondservant should be.  Even though his manner is gentle, he is still very much in charge and seems to receive the utmost respect from the students.

Jerry and Judy should be considered national treasures for the church in Nepal!  I do not believe that is overstated.  Their dedication and sacrificial service to the work is amazing.  Although The Children of Kathmandu program is separate from the school, it shows the heart and commitment the Golphenee’s have to Nepal.  Jerry’s work as teacher in the school is invaluable.

Future of the School

Although  I believe the school is in the best of hands, and it is hard to conceive of the work without Gajendra or Jerry, I also believe thoughtful consideration should be given to the future of the school without one or both of these men. While I was in Nepal, I was encouraged by the planning of an advisory board of men from Nepal.  Jerry often emphasized the need to turn the work over to the brethren in Nepal.  The fact that the brethren are thinking about greater responsibility in the work is a very good sign.  The school could serve very well as the focal point of growth, unity, fellowship, and sound doctrine for the whole nation for years to come.

Rusty Dawson

Short Courses Grow in Nepal

Brothers in Christ………………………..

Greetings to you all in the precious name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. May the grace of God, love and peace be with you all.

Classes:

After having a long 5 weeks of holidays in October, now we are running classes in November. It is going well. We had two guest teachers from the States, Donnie Bates and Rusty Dawson, who taught us on 'prayer' and 'I & II Timothy and Titus' in two different weeks. After that, we studied the Scheme of Redemption and Christian Evidences. Next week we are going to study "How to Teach," "How to Prepare Lessons," and "How to Present Them." We will review some of our previous good lessons from Brothers Don Prather, Donnie Bates and Rusty Dawson. We are preparing for that.

Quarterly meeting:

27^th of November 2010, we had a quarterly fellowship meeting at the school building. We had a total number of participants at 85-90, including children. That was amazing fellowship for us. Different Nepali preachers had presented their lessons on Mt. 5:3-9. Two of our school students, Dev and Surya, had presented their lesson from them. We had women classes, Children Bible classes and men's classes after having lunch. Sister Judy Golphenee led the women's classes.  Two of our students, brother Sonam and Nir, led children’s classes. Brother Parsuram, Deepak and Ravi led men's classes. Our participants were from only Kathmandu Valley. It was encouraging to the congregations through our school. We will continue to do better for the Lord's congregation in coming days. We must thank our brother Jerry Golphenee, who is always involved in teaching and guiding us in a right path. 

Finally, we would like to thank all brothers and sisters from the United State who are always supporting us. Please remember us in your daily prayers. Thank you all.

Servant of Christ

Gajendra Deshar

Preacher's Fellowship in India

VVBC  Report – Fall – 2010 

Evangelism & Edification is the primary concern while holding a preachers’ fellowship meeting. This program is truly bringing up awareness in the preachers about working together or team work. False doctrine with a cream layer of N.T church doctrine is intruding the Christian world resulting in stunning damage among the brotherhood, by which Christians are accepting or favorable to denominations, assuming that they are also of the same faith. It is truly unfortunate to witness this situation among the Church with a history of only 35-40 yrs. However, some wise preachers are responding to this kind of delicate situation with an enthusiastic spirit by holding Bible Classes and gospel meetings to defend the truth and build up the congregations in truth and faith. We were blessed to be invited by some congregations and be a part of this encouraging program. Surely this has given good results. We were able to hold gospel meetings & Bible Classes. As a result, 16 people have been added to the Church, with many contacts for local preachers to do the follow up. Our Bible College students & faculty are very blessed to be part of this. 

Special Bible Classes for Men Preachers &Teachers

 “All Scripture is  inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for  training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.” 

2 Tim 3:16-17

These special Bible classes have been meant for encouraging the preachers to carry on their learning attitude. Now a days teachers & preachers are in need of these classes to help them enhance their knowledge source. Brother Louis Rushmore from World Evangelism has done a remarkable job of teaching about parables. Brother Therman Hodge focused on reviving the preachers about the mission we are called for. Our students and the preachers from Visakha benefited so much through these classes. Louis Rushmore’s wife, Bonnie, has taught the women separately, and did a remarkable job too. Classes like this are really beneficial for the preachers to build up their knowledge source. Brother Rushmore has given us opportunity to translate 3 of his gospel pamphlets into our mother tongue ‘Telugu’.  It is in the process we shall be publishing them by the early next year. We publish now...

We had an attendance of 72 preachers for these two days classes. We presented them with Bibles and Hymn Books

One-on-One study

These studies always give amazing results. Our Bible College has become a place for this. Srinu, is a young man who has spent a couple of weeks studying the N.T Doctrine with the Director and faculty, finally obeying the truth 

    Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him aside and explained to him  the way of God more accurately. Acts 18:26-27

It is certainly a joyous occasion to witness the believers being added to the Church. Brother Satyam, who is one of our students (auditing), has learned about the True Church and obeyed the truth, after an extensive study into the New Testament Doctrine. His conversion has lead to a problem of finding a Church to worship our God in truth & spirit, and also to break the bread. He was traveling a long distance to gather with a Church to fulfill this New Testament pattern. However, when this seems to be difficult, also anxious about worshiping in his native place, he waited no time to begin studying with his wife and teach her about the New Testament Church. After a week long study she realized the truth and wanted to be baptized immediately. However her husband, Satyam, wanted to spend more days explaining the pattern of New Testament worship, clarifying her questions. During the Two days of Bible classes for Women at Skinner’s Garden, she came forward and obeyed the truth. They both went back to their village rejoicing. A couple of weeks after her baptism we heard about them breaking bread together. Interesting thing is, within those two weeks they were working closely with others who are following the same denominational pattern like they were. Now a few of their friends attend their worship service. The most exciting news is a denominational preacher who wants to come and join in the Bible College in Visakha. To us they both are working as Aquila & Priscilla, helping their denominational friends to understand the True Doctrine. We are excited about our upcoming visit to their place to hold a gospel campaign. They are going to be some very effective tools for the extension of Lord’s kingdom in their area. Kindly pray for them.

Our loving God blessed us with another successful Youth Rally with an attendance of 680; resulting in the addition of 14 young souls to the Church. Speakers for this Rally gave a wonderful presentation about God’s plan & purpose for mankind. Through this program we were able to encourage several teenagers and also the preachers who are striving to encourage the youth in their congregations. A country like India, which has millions of young people, needs such programs to bring them to Christ 

· Master Classes from 24 Jan – 4 Feb 2011, Instructor: Garry Fallis, BVBID.

· Short course classes for Under Grad student from 24 Jan – 4 Feb 2011,  Instructor : Jerry Bates, Coordinator BVBID.

· Graduation Exercises—April 14 2011, at VVBC facility, Visakhapatnam

Future Preacher's Training Camp in Arusha

Greetings Fellow Workers, 

We greet you in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Who has blessed us with eternal life in Him. We are indeed a blessed people. The hope and promise we all share in the life to come, is worth everything this life might throw our way. Thank God for each of you who genuinely care through your sharing of what God has blessed you with. We hope and we pray a double blessing in your life for the good you do in His Kingdom. 

We have had a somewhat quite week. Classes have been dismissed until February at the Andrew Connally School of Preaching. Christopher and his team of workers are ready for the upcoming “Future Preacher’s Training Camp” to begin tomorrow (12-6-10). The Samford family is due to return tonight, after a couple of “weather delays”. If all goes to plan, and if the Lord wills, I will be leaving TZ for furlough a week from Tuesday, Dec. 14th, arriving in MS on the 15th, to see my lovely bride, faithful help mate, and best friend who I dearly miss. 

Isaac Kusupa will return from a week of evangelistic efforts to Mwanza, the second largest city in TZ with more than one million population. This young and struggling congregation continues in their faithful service to the Lord and has invited Isaac out to preach and teach the saving message of the Gospel. Due to the wonderful generosity of a brother in Christ in MS, land was purchased some time back. The land is “very rocky” and over the last couple of years, the congregation has manually broken these large boulders and leveled the site. Funds were donated by a good family in AL recently to build a temporary building for the family of God to meet. Please keep Isaac and the congregation in your prayers. 

David Bayi sent a message informing me that the daughter of brother Wilson and his wife obeyed the Gospel this past week and was added to the fellowship of believers that meets at Kioga. Cotton Box and (Gene or Dupree, David could not remember) studied with the Wilson family last year. The husband and wife obeyed and have been faithful since. Their daughter, a single mother, was taught this year and is now our sister in Christ. Please remember her in your prayers as she begins her new journey in Christ. 

The evangelist for the Maji ya Chai congregation (William) sent a report recently. He says every Saturday members of the congregation meet in one of their homes for Bible study and singing. He said; “....this has brought much love and great joy to all the Christians. We have some to visit us during the month and one has obeyed the Gospel.” He also sends his thanks and greetings to the brothers and sisters in OK who pray and support him and the congregation.

Thank you all for your continued prayers on behalf of Stephanie’s mother. She improves day by day and hopefully will get to go home later this week. 

Prayer request: Rene Galloway was recently diagnosed with cancer. Please pray to our God that her treatment will be completely successful. God is able, the prayers of the righteous avail much! Also remember Ken Upchurch who is at home recovering from back surgery. May our God bless each of us beyond measure as we walk in the light of the Gospel. Amen! 

In Him, Cy & Stephanie

Ferguson Report

Wrapping-up CBC 2010

Looking back at last month’s newsletter I realize I need to give a little summary of our last week at Chimala not only because of the graduation, but also because the 2010 CBC school year has officially come to an end. I know you don’t want to hear about our 13-hour road trip to Dar, or our flights back to the States. Nothing significant about any of those items except to say: “Thank-you Lord for getting us back home alive and in one piece!”

But we’re not the only ones thankful for bringing closure to a small chapter  in our  lives.  After 2010 CBC graduates left-to-right: Clergynton Harawa, Askiwe Kayela, Felix Khozomba, Shadrick Lora, Francisco Phiri, and Hellings Mkhala. Spending two years at the Chimala Mission away from home and family, you can begin to see the wear on the CBC graduates’ faces. These guys have studied hard and endured living together in close and frequently-hot quarters day-after-day. They have eaten as their regular staple food a corn-mush substance called “ugali” that they roll up in a ball and pop inside their mouths. Mix that with a few vegetables and an occasional piece or two of tough beef, and you have the basic CBC student diet. [For a vivid demonstration of eating ugali, see the video on my Facebook page]    

Needless to say, the graduates were anxious to complete their studies and return to their loved ones back home. That was the circumstances of our final week in Tanzania. But each of the six graduates completed the requirements for their final course; and by Friday, they were excited about the events of the graduation that evening. The line-up of the program of events included words of encouragement from CBC director, Peter Kamatula; a special guest speaker, Lenkosi Mkwama—the first director of the very first school of preaching at the Chimala Mission; and the valedictorian address from one of our graduates, Francisco Phiri of Malawi. Following the presentation of diplomas and graduate gifts, a traditional Tanzanian feast was offered for all who attended the celebration.

There have been four graduations now in the history of CBC, and I have attended three of them; but every one of them encourages me that there is another group of men who are better equipped and motivated to do effective service for the church of our Lord in East Africa. That is both exciting and frightening. Exciting because I know the possibilities of godly men in God’s hands are endless for the good that can be done. Frightening because I know Satan never rests in devising ways to discourage and destroy what we have struggled to build in the hearts and minds of these men. That’s why we continually ask for your prayers that all of the hours of teaching, studying, and dreaming would effectively “take root downward, and bear fruit upward.”                                             Howell

Does it Really Matter?

It is all too easy to become comfortable with one’s life and seeing things always from one’s own perspective. That’s why it’s time well spent for individuals, organizations and businesses to ask people on the outside what they see. Applying this self-evaluation to the BVBID extension program and foreign mission work in general is equally profitable. After all, churches and individuals faithfully contribute hard-earned money to support works overseas that they may personally never see. Instead, they rely upon the credibility of the mission workers and the reports they write.

Obviously, I am one of those people who have been entrusted with a great amount of confidence by faithful brethren to make sure the works and programs that I am associated with accomplish what they are asked to do. A couple of days ago, I pulled out my old King James Bible looking for a marginal note I remember making years ago. I found the marginal note, but also tucked inside an outside pocket of the Bible cover, I found a hand-written letter that was given to us when we lived in Arusha, Tanzania dated the 7^th of September, 2001 – two days before “9-11”. I now remember the letter, but had forgotten all about it. It was written by Selina Bayi, a young lady we studied the Bible with who eventually obeyed the gospel of Christ. She was the sister of one of our close friends and co-workers in Arusha, David Bayi; and she is today married to Julius Gasper, a faithful gospel preacher in Tanzania, and they have a daughter named Agatha. Here are her own unedited words:

Mr and Mrs Furgusson,

I hope you are doing well. I have very glad to express my gratitude to you both for making me pass in a proper path. I now realize that I wasn’t aware of Bible, I was in a total dark. You have helped highly to make my mind understand the actual meaning of the word of the Lord. I still believe you will continue make me learn further.

I have very elated that you had never showed to despair even when I was absolutely reluctant to join this reasonable church. You came frequently where I settle to make sure that I understand the genuine way of Jesus Christ.

I thank you highly from the bottom of my heart to bear the situation with patience. I haven’t something worth enough to pay you for such a precious task you have done for me. You have showed me a wonderful kindness that lastly, I say thank God to enable all that.

I real appreciate what you have done for me in Jesus name we pray to you. Amen. Selina Bayi

No, Selina is wrong about one thing. She did have something to pay us—not anything material, but much more than that. Her sweet and touching letter of gratitude says more than I could explain to you in a report. Her life now consists of not just being a little more than a servant girl working seven days a week for a woman who would never allow her off to worship on Sundays. She has now been a Christian for nine years serving the Lord alongside her husband.

Finding people like Selina is why we keep going back. The gospel of Christ is the only thing that can change people’s lives to give them true joy and genuine contentment. We go because you send. You send, and people hear. People hear, and Jesus saves. What we do together really does matter.           Howell

Ferguson Sponsoring Congregation

Please send all contributions to:

WESTSIDE CHURCH OF CHRIST
3235 HWY 54 WEST
BROWNSVILLE, TN 38012
(731) 772-3810

“Ferguson Mission”

Monthly commitments and one-time donations are still needed.

Bear Valley Bible Institute of Denver

A work of the Bear Valley Church of Christ, 2707 S. Lamar St, Denver, CO 80227  (303) 986-5800
http://www.bvbid.org

One Productive Week

A number of reports were turned in this week. The news continues to be impressive, as the program grows in productivity around the world. Not only are current students involved in the work after graduation, but men are being recruited to be a part of the program in the next class of students for 2011.

As we continue to work at finalizing plans for the upcoming start of the Cameroon Bible Institute of Wotutu, excitement fills the air. Classes are scheduled to begin January 3rd 2011. Please remember to pray for the incoming students and the staff of the program in Cameroon.

I will limit any comments on the front end to allow everyone to spend their time reading the reports at length. Thank you for all you do to help with the advancement of the gospel throughout the world in training men to teach the gospel to their own people.

Coordinator Updates

At this point, I am not aware of anyone traveling among the men who are coordinating the various schools. Most of the men involved have returned home safely and are working to plan the year ahead. It would be greatly appreciated if you would remember to pray for the decisions being made in the plans for 2011. There is much work ahead. 

Extension Reports

North India Bible College: Chandigarh, India

The church is growing in Northern India, as well as, the school in Chandigarh. Read more here.

CSMT - Nigeria

The prison ministry in Abakaliki, Nigeria continues to be productive. Read more here.  

Chimala Bible College: Chimala, Tanzania

One class graduates in Chimala and another is about to begin. Read Garry Hill's report.

Andrew Connally School of Preaching

Eight students graduate in Arusha, Tanzania. Read more of Cy Stafford's report.

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Chann Lork's daughter has arrived. Read more about this and the work.  

Final Thoughts

I believe everyone has a better picture now of just how incredible the work has been and continues to be in extension training. I am constantly amazed at the level of sacrifice so many make to keep the work strong and fruitful.

I know I expressed my gratitude last week for each of you and the support you are providing at every level. There is not a day that goes by when I do not express thanksgiving to our God for you. Your efforts are what aid in the development of the greatest work on earth... preaching the gospel.

God bless

Bob

Church Growth In Northern India

This month started with the challenge to make alterations in the things. On October 31^st we changed the place of worship to an auditorium. It is a costly venture but we have no other way. But on Nov. 1, I got the good news from Brother Sonu, who works in Gangoh (Saharanpur District of U.P. state), over the phone that 7 people obeyed the Lord on Sunday. It was an encouraging thing for us that the Lord gives us hope whenever we are discouraged with the things we face.

In September we started our Daily Bible verse Service that has crossed 300 contacts. Across the country through SMS, daily at 6 a.m. - 7 a.m., we send God’s word to the people. Out of this some are believers and some who have never read the Bible are given a chance to know God’s will for them.  

Students in the NIBC faced trouble most of the time because they were asked not to sing in daily morning and evening devotions. Singing is a necessary tool for their spiritual growth, but we seek God’s providence in this matter. 

Brother Subodh Gual from Balco town ship, Chhattisgarh, told that yesterday (i.e., on November 13^th) 3 more souls obeyed the Lord from Mahant family and some others also were being prepared. This has counted 20 baptisms at his place in this year and a total of 80 baptized people in their congregation now worship every Lord’s Day. They are growing in number and the need of the space for gathering increases day by day. With their limited resources they are planning to buy a piece of land for worship.  

In Nanded, Maharashtra state (1900+ kilometers from here. 32 hrs journey by train), Brother S. Sheranappa arranged 2 days class for me. He spoke along with Brother Amul Bansod and Brother Barnabas from Aurangabad for a short time, but I was the main teacher there. I had few hours and thought to stop at Aurangabad and met with Brother Amul Bansod’s family. I talked with the students and staff of the Aurangabad Bible College and some of the local preachers. I should not forget to mention here that Brother Sheranappa came in contact with me through the TFT books. After getting our books he tried to contact me and during these years the relationship has grown to this level that he wanted me to preach in the meeting he arranged. He, among many, never forget to tell that these books are a great blessing for the Indian people. Never before were India people so privileged to have such study. He says that in his 40 years’ of preaching he is more impressed with the style of translation and the language used. He has made a library at his house of the TFT books and encourages people to learn the truth. 

In Nanded about 150 people heard the gospel. People appreciated the study and were glad that they were hearing this kind of teaching for the first time in their life. A good thing that came out from the meeting was that, some people asked me to come again when they have such meetings in other places. Some young people even wanted to be our students and, Lord willing, they will be enrolled for the next session.

While I was there, I received good reports over the phone of the gospel being taken to the other areas as well. Brother Ritesh James who works in Satna, MP state, told me over the phone that they have distributed 400 BC Hindi to various people and they want to invite me for a gospel meeting in Satna very soon. He also asked about 40 Hindi Bibles to be given to the people he has been in touch.

For Christ

Earnest Gill

Productive Prison Ministry

Beloved Brethren,

It will interest you to know that CSMT has been able to roof her big blocks. I will send the pictures when the pictures are ready. The last floor ( very furnished) of the biggest blocks, where the ministerial students take their classes, was dedicated to God for His services last Sunday. It was an interesting service.

Prison ministry is on as we always take trips to reach the inmates with the gospel of Christ. We need Bibles for the inmates. We have enough tracts from the mission printing for them. Two of the inmates we converted, who are out of the prison yard, are in our constant contacts. Please pray for our efforts. The work is very demanding.

Greetings to all that contribute to the success of Bear Valley Extension programs in which CSMT, Abakaliki, Nigeria is one.

Reuben in His Service