Cooperation To Preach In A Refugee Camp...

Greetings Fellow Workers:

We rejoice in the Lord for all you do and mean to His work here in Tanzania and throughout East Africa. We thank God for His blessings and for His love for all man. Recently Robert Turner received an e-mail from Pat Porter (see below). I have included this to illustrate the good being done through the Tanzania 2000 mission effort with Her efforts through the Andrew Connally School of preaching with the help of the Bear Valley Bible Institute under the leadership of brother Turner:

[“Lynn Porter (Lake Houston church of Christ), has over 500 WBS students in Kasula, Kigoma, Tanzania.  One of her students has been baptized and has started a church there in one of the camps there. {She is helping him with his support to go to school in Dar es Salaam.} Other students have also been baptized there, but they can no longer go to the river to do the baptizing.

He recently asked her if there is any way those in the camp could have contact with Christians to teach them more about the Bible and how to become Christians.

Most of these refugees speak only their native tongue and French, with just a little English.

The student, who does speak some English, Makyambe Mwindee, may be reached at Nyarugusu church of Christ, P.O. Box 347, Kasulu, Kigoma, Tanzania. Lynn also has students in the Mtabila I & II camps in the same town.

Makyambe has asked if we could supply a portable baptistry and shelter for the church.

My question is to Theron, is would it be possible for you or some of your contacts to go to the camps/church there in Kasulu and meet with the them?  Also, do you know how to obtain a portable baptistry/shelter for them if the money was supplied, and how much would it cost to obtain these there?

Bob, is this an opportunity for some of your preaching students, any that might speak French, to use as an intern/field trip/or something like a training session to do?”]

Yes indeed, we can and will help with this need and wonderful evangelistic need and opportunity. I have spoken with Elly Martin and he has agreed to build the portable baptistry. I have met with Yusuph Madaki, currently here taking two of our Master’s level courses, and he has agreed to take the baptistry to the refugee camp, preach, teach and do what ever he can to help the Lord’s Church currently meeting at this location.

Thank you Bob and Lynn for your efforts in teaching the Gospel to the lost of this world. Thank you Robert Turner (and team) for your efforts in teaching Gospel preachers the Truths of God’s Word in their own country, in their own culture, in their own language that they might be better equipped to take the Good News of Jesus Christ to their own people. Thank you KW Elders and all our faithful supporters for making all this possible.

To God be the glory, great things He is doing through His faithful. 

In Him, 
Cy, Stephanie & Granny

New Converts, New Visitors, New Opportunities...

Dear Co-Workers,

On this warm, sunny day guest Ken Chambers preached to a packed auditorium in Kisongo. His powerful lesson was scripture-filled and revealed three reasons from I Peter 4:1-6 why one should become a Christian. As usual, we had visitors present, including a lady named Prisca, who lives near Usa River. Because she is a new-comer to Arusha, she sent an email through a mailing that we are a part of, asking about “a messianic fellowship.” Jimmy responded, inviting her to services this morning. Today, Mrutu began teaching a new converts’ class for our many new Christians. They will be a part of this class for one year. Jimmy continued teaching the men on the Gospel of John.

Erica, member at Kisongo, Arusha Bible school graduate and an employee of the ACSOP, taught a wonderful lesson to the ladies on the subject of “Prayer.” It is so refreshing and encouraging to know one of the Tanzanian ladies can teach such an excellent lesson. Hearing her lesson gave Trina even more hope and confidence that the church at Kisongo will carry on long after the Americans leave. Our other visiting teacher, Sellers Crane, preached at Kwa Mrombo.

Today, we have planned a home worship service for our sister, Helen, who has cancer. She continues to be sick and weak and we wanted her to be able to worship even when she couldn’t get out. Two ACSOP students will conduct the service for her and bring the Lord’s Supper.

Next Sunday Jimmy, Cy Stafford, Elly Martin, Ahimidiwe Kimaro and Charles Heberth will leave after worship for Uganda. As we said last week they will be attending the East African Gospel Meeting where they Jimmy and Cy will teach some lessons and take part in the evangelistic efforts. However, there is another reason Jimmy is making this trip.

Jimmy has always been a fan of anything written by Stephen Covey. You may be familiar with his most popular book "The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People." Well, several years ago Mr. Covey wrote, "The Eighth Habit." With that book he included a DVD which had several short documentaries about people and places which had taken some of the principles in the book to heart. One of the people was named Stone. He was a soccer player who played professionally in East Africa and was so good he was picked to play for the national Ugandan team. This was an opportunity to play in Europe and be seen by the scouts for the BIG professional teams. But, just before he was to begin this journey, another player on an opposing team deliberately injured him in such a way that he would never play soccer professionally again. Stone immediately forgave the man and moved on with his life.

Stone has since been working with young men who were unemployed, sometimes involved in crime and had been written off by their family and their society. He coaches them in soccer and teaches them a trade where they can support themselves and be responsible. To make a long story short, Jimmy asked one of the preaching students to go and see Stone in Kampala. Jimmy thought that if Stone was respected and influential in his current state, how much more could he do as a Christian and as a servant within the Church? He was visited and at first rejected what he heard because, as he said, "If God is not with me, how can I be doing so much good?" Jimmy sent the student back several times and Stone was impressed by that persistence. He now wants to meet Jimmy. Jimmy will go and study with him some more. Please pray for their safe travel and for Stone, as he hears the Gospel one more time.

Due to the trip there will be no report for the next two weeks. Thanks so much for your support of the Gospel here in East Africa. May God bless you for all your sacrifices.

In Christ, The Gees

Back Home And Classes Ready To Begin At BVBID

Meanwhile, back at home...  Sheryl and I are back in Denver for the start of the 46th year of training men to preach at the Bear Valley Bible Institute. A strong class of men are preparing themselves for a two year journey to equip them for the work of preaching the gospel. With the beginning of the new year in Denver, the Extension Program is also preparing for new classes of incoming students.

With each incoming class of students, I am reminded of the graduates who are working in various locations around the world preaching the gospel. Cy Stafford’s report this week references the fact that more than 90 men have graduated from the Andrew Connally School of Preaching in Arusha, Tanzania. Think about the difference being made in just one school. 

If the efforts are then multiplied by 15 schools over the years ahead, we are talking 1,350 men preaching the gospel. The exciting part for me is the fact we are growing. We are working to see that more schools are added to the program in the years ahead. Our goal is 75 schools over 50 years. Do the math!

Extension Training is making a difference. As we continue to grow, more souls are being added to the kingdom. The reports below will demonstrate the effectiveness being seen by the men who are still enrolled in school. Our prayer and goal for the future is to maintain records on the work being done by those who graduate from the program and serve in the Lord’s kingdom.

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

Extension Reports 

Birthday For One, New Birth For Three More: As brother Elangwe celebrates his birthday, the exciting news of three more souls added to the kingdom rings forth from Cameroon.

Fellowship And Family Demonstrate Growth In Nepal: As the work progresses in Nepal, greater fellowship is extending in God’s family. This is one of the great needs in the work.

Handcuffs, Tears And Joy: The work in Chimala demonstrates the dedication of students to endure even the most difficult of trials. Garry Hill reports on the challenges faced in Tanzania.

A Future Stable And Secure In Ukraine: With the transfer of the building to the church, the future of the work is stable and secure. Dennis reports about the changes with BVBIU.

Students Learn Ways To Provide Support: Francis Wechesa shares news about the students learning ways to provide their own support after graduating.

VBS In Cambodia: Two villages in Cambodia were blessed with good numbers for a recent Vacation Bible School. Chann’s report shares more.

Steps To Growing Autonomous In Cambodia: The contribution of the church toward the recent VBS in Siem Reap and Takam Village demonstrate growth on the part of this young church.

Here I am, Send me: The providential working of God is amazing. Cy Stafford reports on the development of the work in the Andrew Connally School of Preaching. This is an exciting read!

Is It Possible? YES: Jimmy Gee’s report shares how nationals continue to step up and take a leading role in the development of the church in Arusha. With God, all things are possible. 

Final Thoughts
As we move through another week, I search for adequate words to thank you for your support of the Extension Training effort. Without each of you being involved in the specific roles needed, this work would not be fruitful.

I hope you know how much your involvement is appreciated by all. Thank you for your love for the Lord, the lost souls around the world, and your desire to see the church of our Lord and Savior grow. I pray God will richly bless you in your service.

God bless
Bob

A Future Stable And Secure In Ukraine...

Dear brothers, churches and families.

The summer break for the institute is almost over. I think that we achieved with God’s help what we had planned at the beginning of this summer.   

At the end of the July, we managed to complete the process of legally giving the building of the English Language Institute to the church.  Now the future of this building is more stable and secure. The building, where the Bear Valley institute is working and the church is gathering, now is owned by a religious organization (i.e. the church). We want some of the Bear Valley instructors to be included in the paperwork and become the co-owners of the building.

Since we took the financial responsibility for closing the English Language Institute (the previous owner of the building), we need 3 months for the city government organizations (like tax administration, pension fund, city water and electricity providers) to audit the institute activities. This procedure will require additional time and expenses. But the main thing is already completed.

Right now we are gathering the papers needed for the church to make new contracts with the companies providing us with water and electricity, etc. 

Last Sunday I preached at the church in Krasnoarmeysk where the graduate of our school, Alexander Rodnayev, is usually preaching, and we may possibly have another student from that town.

A young man from Nikolayev contacted me, and he was very interested in getting into our program. I’m gathering information about him, and I want to meet with him in person.

During this month, my wife and I visited yet another VBS that took place near Poltava. It was a wonderful time. We have also got to meet some of our friends we haven’t seen for a long time and thanked them for their work.

We have already got the schedule for the next school year, yet we still experience shortage of teachers. If some of our American brothers are willing to help us and participate in this ministry, we would be very happy.

If you have any question or comments, please write to me. Thank you for your care and support. Our students and churches in Ukraine send you their greetings and love.

May God be our Lord to the end of our life.

Your coworker,
Dennis.

Steps To Growing Autonomous In Cambodia...

Welcome brothers and sisters to this month's report of the work of Christ in Siem Reap, Cambodia. This month is a much needed month for not only myself but the staff and students of IBISR. As we completed our first school year, the students were sent home and the staff got a chance to visit family and take a break from teaching. We also had the opportunity to regroup and focus on the next school year. It is a blessing to be able to work with individuals who are excited about doing God's will and teaching his pure gospel to sincere souls. It is more of a blessing to have fellow workers of Christ like yourselves who read and support this work on a consistent basis. We know that our goal is to be self sufficient but we also know that we need your support until that day comes. It's like a teenage orphan who knows that he has the responsibility to take care of his younger brothers and sisters but he doesn’t refuse help from kind and generous individuals who show compassion on him and his family until he is able to grow up to be an adult and take care of them himself. That is why we appreciate your love and sacrifice in sending your hard earn money to support this work.

As some of you might know, I was planning on taking my wife and daughter with me to America to visit with all of you and report of the work for the past 4 years that I've been here. For me and my daughter it's not a problem because we are U.S. citizens but my wife is not a citizen of the United States yet, so we had to apply for a tourist Visa for her. To make a long story short, her Visa was denied because the embassy doesn’t think that she will return to Cambodia if she gets approved. Anyway, if I do go back to America, I'll probably just bring my daughter and leave my wife at home, which I really do not want to do. I told her that I will not return to America without her. But my wife understands the situation and how important it is for me to go back and report of all the good things that's happening here with all of you face to face. She knows it's part of my work as a missionary and is willing to sacrifice a month's time away from me and my daughter so that we can continue to get financial support for this wonderful work. I would ask that you all pray for my family and I as we make this difficult decision. Thank you in advance.

As for the news concerning the work of the church, we were able to successfully conduct a VBS for 150 children combined in Takam and Siem Reap. The theme for this year's VBS was "Jesus loves the children." Chann, our local preacher did all of the organizing and preparation along with Darat, Choeuy, Savay, Hout, Piseth, Ravy, Sokchea and many other local leaders. I just sat back and watched everything. It was truly a local's work and they did an amazing job! It's just another testament to the work of IBISR in developing such wonderful  and mature leaders. More importantly it's a testament to the power of God's word to transform lives. Not only did they prepare the lessons and activities themselves, but the local church provided finanically for the food and costs of materials. We are starting to take little steps to reaching our goal in becoming autonomous. We are also studying with new prospects and when God opens their hearts and they obey the gospel, we will report and rejoice with all of you. Please continue to pray for this work to grow and thrive in the land of the Buddhas.

If you would like to read more from past reports and see pictures to the current report, please visit the following website: http://www.freewebs.com/siemreapchurchofchrist/apps/blog/

-Phanat

VBS In Cambodia...

There were some activities taking place recently in Siem Reap Cambodia. We just had our VBS for the year 2011 that was done a few days ago in two places: one was at Takam and another one was in Siem Reap.

We had 121 people joining the VBS at Takam village which is located north of Siem Reap about 25 kilometers from the city. We had children much more than adults to participate with us. On the way there it was a little bit difficult to drive as it is a rainy season in our country so we had to drive through the muddy road. But, thank God that we made it without any serious problem.

We had the number of people who came to join our VBS in Siem Reap. 75 people, there were more children than adults the same one to Takam, and our Theme for VBS this year is God loves children, Mat 19:13-15.

We had two lessons for each place and included the show to illustrate the lesson that we taught. People really liked the show which were shown by our staff and students, also visitors. We all laughed together and enjoyed to study the word of God together. Through the lesson we make the children feel more and more comfortable to come to the church as they learn that they are not excluded at all but they are welcome by our Lord Jesus. Also, after lessons for both places we had a meal together as a fellowship which were cooked by our brothers and sisters in Christ.

I have some pictures and video clip that will try to attach but don't know how much it will allow me to attach, you will see some in attach. 

Thanks for your support and your pray for the work in Siem Reap, Cambodia.
God bless you all in His work
Chann

Birthday For One, New Birth For Three More...

Dearest in Christ,

It is amazing for me and the entire student body and staff of CBIW to say hello. May God richly bless you all for your kindness toward us, and your prayers toward the work here in Cameroon.

Brother Eddie Samuel baptized Christian Ndiko in the Wotutu congregation in the cause of this week. Remember him in your prayers to walk worthy of his calling.

I do hope you are all doing great in all that you do. Our prayers for you are that God keep watch over you and bless all your endeavors.

I come before you today appealing for you to join me to thank our God for adding one more year in my life today. Today is my birthday, as we had some special prayer session after worship today for me, my family and all the work entrusted to my hands. I am 34 years old now. My blessings are many. Above all I was called by God to serve Him in the capacity of an evangelist. I am excited about my calling and I pray He use me in many levels to fulfill His words through me. 

Some students, three of them, went to Tole over the weekend for weekend evangelism. God blessed their effort with three souls as they were added into the small struggling Tole congregation. Please keep them in your prayers.

All our programs in CBIW went on well. Our devotionals and our chapel periods were wonderful. Thanks to God for using both the students assigned to speak in Chapel to do it with happiness. I am excited about them because I can see daily growth in their lives.

This week was also a memorable one as the second quarter results were released with great improvement from our students. Please keep these soldiers who are being trained to enter into the warfront in the near future well-armed to defend the gospel of Christ.

Brother Muofo Bernard baptized Ambe Rene over the weekend in Tole as they were busy during their weekend evangelism. Pray for the brother to keep the faith.

Brother Ambe Rene also told the news of his baptism to his sister who is a nursing mother, the students went into their home and shared the gospel and Maureen Ambe who also accepted the truth and put on Christ. See the picture below and to the right. Please remember them in your prayers that they should be an eye opener to the rest of the family who are staunch denominational followers (Presbyterian).

This afternoon was another moment of joy in the life of the church in Wotutu, as the church came together to watch videos from WVBS in church with invites as part of the celebration of my birthday. The church used the projector device donated by brother David Ballard to project the lessons from WVBS and also the matriculation ceremony of the CBIW students. It was wonderful. Over 120 people were in attendance. The church has decided to put projection of DVD from WVBS as part of their weekly program where visitors will watch touching lessons like that of John Moore and others.

During my birthday celebration, it was also time to have fellowship with one another, as brethren spend time to sing praises to God and to pray for many more and fruitful years for me to serve in the vineyard of the Lord.

We shall be moving with the students to Batoke village to plant a church. Please remember us in your prayers for us to have the means to go, so that we shall lay the ground work. We shall continue the work when we have all that it takes to perfect the evangelistic effort of the village. We still need a lot of other things.

APPEAL
1. The school needs a digital public address system which will help in evangelizing Wotutu village and other villages that we shall go for outreach.

2. The problem of a van is still serious with us as it hinders our movement. Students who travel to Tole this weekend did that under the rain to make it to Tole. We give thanks to God for using the students and three souls were added to the church there. Rains and mud could not stop us because the gospel is for all. Please do your best to share our troubles. 

APPRECIATIONS
We thank you for all your prayers, concern and support for the smooth running of our program. I pray that God bless you and replenish all you are doing for us.

Do your best to share this report with others who may be of help to us. Thanks for your love and care. Stay safe in Christ, as you continue to think souls. 

Elangwe and family
By His grace, director

Is It Possible? YES

Dear Co-laborers, 

We welcomed Ken Chambers and Sellers Crain to Tanzania today. They are here to teach in the Master's Program. Ken will teach New Testament Theology and Sellers will teach Advanced Homiletics. Ken is from Hixson, TN and attends the Mt. Creek congregation. Sellers is from Nashville and is an elder as well as the preacher at the Rivergate congregation. We are happy to have them with us and appreciate their efforts.

On the way to the airport today Jimmy attended the Usa River congregation where Fariji Paul is the preacher. He is doing a great work there. I did not get an official count but the "preacher's count" is between 40 and 50 in attendance. It was a joy to be with them. Fariji asked Jimmy to teach Bible study and preach. He preached on Luke 11:1-4 and the model prayer. We sometimes skip the first verse and go straight to the model prayer, but there is something there in verse one that is very interesting. One of the disciples asked Jesus to teach them to pray. Why did he not ask him to teach them to preach, or evangelize? Evidently they saw something in the prayer life of Jesus that caused them to want to do things the way Jesus did them. May we learn the same lesson.

While at Usa River, Trina was at Kisongo and taught the ladies class on Genesis 15. Candace also taught the children's class. Trina said they had several visitors at Kisongo. And, speaking of Kisongo, the campaign that ended last Sunday resulted in 18 baptisms. What is so impressive about this is that Ahimidiwe Kimaro, the preacher at Kisongo, has already made up a list of the new converts and assigned certain ones to different Christians. Trina and Paulina will be helping three ladies and Jimmy is responsible for working with a husband and wife which are Lembris' brother and sister-in-law. We think it is a sign of great maturity on the part of our African brethren that they would make such plans. It will not be long before the brethren here are ready to handle the total responsibility of this work and we believe they will be more than ready for the task.  

In two weeks time Cy Stafford and Jimmy will leave for Uganda to attend and speak at the East African Gospel Meeting. Jimmy preached this meeting when it was held in Nairobi in 2005. Each year it is held in a different African city. What you may not remember from that event was that we told you this event was planned and has been executed each year totally by our African brethren. The thought for it was born from the Safari for Souls campaigns that have been going on for many years. The brethren here saw that each year and said "Hey, we can do that!" Yes, they have asked us to help with the preaching and teaching from time to time but they are the ones who took the lead and have made these meetings a success. Tune in next week and we will tell you of another reason we are going to this particular series of meetings. Thanks for all you do and sacrifice to make this work possible! 

In Christ,
The Gees

Here Am I Send Me...

Greetings Fellow Workers:

What a joy it is to be a part of God’s family. Over the past three months we have hosted a number of faithful campaigners. They have come with helping hands and healing hearts. They have shown, in a most powerful way, what it means to love God, love his work, and love for the lost souls of the world. We say thank you to everyone who came and to everyone who made it possible for them to come and serve. 

We now “shift gears” and begin our work for the second half of this year, if the Lord wills. Some of our graduates are back and will be taking Master’s class for the next two weeks. Then our undergrads return for their classes.

The Andrew Connally School of Preaching, in cooperation and with the support of the Bear Valley team; continues to bless the souls of East Africa in a grand way. With our November 2011 graduating class, we will have trained and sent out over 90 Gospel preachers. These men continue in the work of the Lord, seeking and saving the lost in ways we as “visiting Americans” could never do in ten life times. Let me illustrate:

A great need arose when our brother Paschal died at the young age of 30. Paschal in his short two year Christian life had a tremendous impact on the Lord’s Church here in TZ in the planting of four congregations through the conversion of more than 200 souls. There have been any number of situations much like this one where there was a great need for a trained evangelist.

Yusuph Madaki having just graduated stepped up and said; “here I am, send me”, and that we did. Let me quote but a small portion of his latest report to show the good God is doing through this man of God:

In the last three months 18 souls have been added to the Church. Our Saturday Bible training class now has 25 students. The Kazibizyo congregation is struggling due to not having a building, as is the Ibambula congregation.

The Mtinga congregation is having a hard time due to false teachers in other churches. We plan to plant two new congregations one at Kahma town, I have a big class with one man and his family, he is a business man. Also, one at Katoro, the problem here is a place to worship. “I know the difficult work facing me now is because of many congregations but I am obligated to open many more congregations because many people need the Gospel and they cry as the people of Macedonia.”

I continue to give thanks to my supporters for the wonderful work of supporting my family. God bless all in this good work. Lastly I urge every Christian who will read this report to have much prayer for the work of Ushirombo and my family in order to accomplish this work.

There are currently two brother in the ACSOP, one to graduate in November of this year and the other next year. They will be a great help, but more are needed for sure. A special thank you to everyone who supports the students, ACSOP, and some of our graduates. You are making a difference in the lives of countless thousands. To God be the glory, great things He continues to do though His faithful.

In Him, Cy, Stephanie & Granny

Students Learn Ways To Provide Support...

Dear brethren,

I am sorry to have not written this short report. It was due to lack of power the whole of yesterday. God is blessing us richly. Students and staff of Uganda School of Evangelism are doing fine. The students are enjoying their studies this quarter. 

Yesterday (July 24) I and Margaret went to Bukalikha church of Christ for our worship.on a motor bike. We thank God that we came back safely. The Bukalikha church  have now repaired their grass roof now they are safe from rain and maggots falling from the rotten grass. They are seriously making their bricks for a more stronger building. 

Paul Odaka is teaching our students how to properly plant vegetables in raised beds. Last Friday he started teaching them in class for two and three hours in the garden. They are learning how to use small land and get more product, more than those with large land but they do not know how to properly feed the soil with manure. 

Last Friday they prepared a compost manure heap. With our cows, goats, chicken and pigs we do have enough manure to use in our compost. The only problem is that we are not keeping them in good shelters due to a lack of modern shelters  for our animals and birds. But we believe that at the right time God will provide. Continue praying for us in this effort. 

We remain your fellow workers in the kingdom.
Francis and Margaret Wechesa

Handcuffs, Tears And Joy...

We returned to the Chimala Bible Institute, after time in the states raising funds, to greet the students for the beginning of the Fall quarter. The two day trip seems routine now and we were greeted with Manard, one of our instructors, at the airport. The eleven hour trip through the heart of Tanzania was shared with Kara Wells of the Horton Chapel Church of Christ in Kentucky. She is visiting the mission to see about future work in the education program. She is also a photographer documenting life on the mission for us.

The first day at chapel was spent hearing student reports of what they had done during the summer break. Where Blessings preaches 15 were baptized, and Navie had 6 baptisms. Lyton reported that there were 15 restorations as well as Bright who explained at the congregation he worked that “many” were restored. Israel noted he spent his time “encouraging the brethren” and they had 1 baptism. 

William said he “preached house to house” in his village and worked with the “backslidden” who were restored. Atupakessee reported they had chosen elders at his congregation, and we all rejoiced because many congregations do not have elders. Brother, mission administrator and elder, has been teaching many lessons on our need for these elders.

Other students reported “working with youth,” “going to the prisons” and “teaching the men to prepare sermons.” In their summer work, all of the dedicated students remind us of the great work that is taking place to train faithful servants of the Lord in Tanzania and Malawi. Our students need your continued support, for the sacrifices they make to become faithful teachers and preachers are numerous. When Felix was leaving the Tanzania, Malawian border, he was taken off in handcuffs and tears by the border guards. This was before the other students could collect money to give the guard in order to free their fellow student. He was retained because he was traveling to study the Bible at CBI. These brave men still come, and we could have many more if we get the support. For 100 dollars a month, we can support a student here at CBI.

On a personal note, one of the Malawian’s students brought me a flag from his country today. I proudly put it on my desk with the Tanzanian flag I have. These flags remind me every day how blessed I am to be here at Chimala as an instructor and assistant coordinator for Bear Valley Bible Institute and the director of the school. Please remember us in your prayers as we work hard in training these dedicated and deserving students.

Garry L. Hill,
Director: Chimala Bible Institute

Fellowship And Family Demonstrate Growth In Nepal...

The last two months have been very fruitful for the Lord in many ways. The continued progress of our six students is a source of encouragement and light that shines throughout the whole country. It shined when they returned to their home congregations, often in small villages, during the Nepal New Year holiday in April. They also went on a campaign and visited four congregations high in the mountains in June. The light shines daily / weekly here in Kathmandu. The school has an areawide fellowship the last Saturday of each month with classes for children, the youth, ladies, and men. The students are active with these classes as well as showing servant leadership by serving lunch, something seldom found in the old style leadership that the members have seen in the past.

July began with a visiting teacher, Bro. Steve Smith from Mission Viejo, Calif. Steve became a student before he came as a teacher. He inquired about specific ways that he should approach his responsibility as a teacher in a poor country with a low literacy level. He began to get to know his audience months before he landed at the airport. His lessons on the Sermon on the Mount were terrific. He related everything to a change that begins on the inside [heart and mind] before it can become a part of our behavior, speech, and Christian fellowship.  

We were blessed by the return of Bro. Don Prather to the school for the second and third weeks of July. Don was our first visiting teacher in July of last year. He was accompanied by his wife Janie [last year also] and by Bro. Art Gibbs [first time]. The first week Don taught the students about the Life and Work of an Evangelist. The second week we had 30 Christian leader guests from outside the Kathmandu Valley attend. In June they were given reading assignments to study, take notes, and prepare questions in order that they could come to the class for some deep discussion and learning. The theme for the week was How To Use The Bible To Understand God’s Message. The class participation and enthusiasm was contagious.

Some of the comments by the visitors were along this line ……………

** Coming prepared, having discussions, and coming with questions and leaving with answers was much better than having a preacher talk and the audience sit and listen.

** They were impressed with the attitude and fellowship between all those attending, whether teacher, school staff or students, and all the guests.

** The words “fellowship” and “family” were frequently heard.

** They would like to have these type of classes every 2-3 months.

Note: We will begin to work on raising the money needed for their transportation, food, and lodging. It is a much desired and greatly needed project that will touch the church all over Nepal.

We also had a guest preacher for three days during the third week of July. Bro. Mike Brooks has been coming to Nepal for 16 years, averaging two trips of about two weeks each. His three days of classes was also attended by over 30 Nepali preachers, many of whom attended at the school the week before. His lessons on Basic Bible Beliefs were well received, needed by the church everywhere, and also gave our students another view of teaching method and style.  

In addition to our guest speakers, we have been blessed with more active teaching participation by three Nepali preachers. Brother Parsuram Sunchuri taught a class on The Christian Family in June and will teach a class on Fruitful Methods of Evangelism and Church Maturing in Nepal beginning in August. Bro. Pramod Dhakal will also teach a class in August. He has become more active with the school and this will be his first teaching responsibility. Bro. Kirish Maharjan has been active about one day per week for over a year and has expressed a desire to increase that time at the school plus visit our soon to graduate students with special assistance in their ministry in their home congregations. We are very blessed and pleased with this increased Nepali leadership activity.

Our first group of six students will graduate on September 21. The first two years at any school have to be full of frustrations, joys, ups, downs, and so many first experiences for so many Christians. This has been true for our students, Gajendra as the Director, our teachers, and those who have been knowledgeable of the school’s progress.  

All of us wish to thank Bear Valley Bible Institute of Denver, the congregations in east Texas that supply the monthly funds to run the school, the members at Mission Viejo, CA, Lakewood, CA, and Reno, NV for their support,  the visiting teachers, and for the prayers of our American brothers and sisters, who are our unseen, but loved and appreciated, spiritual fellow-workers in the kingdom of God’s dear Son.

Jerry Golphenee

Heading Home...

After 18 days overseas and more than a month on the road visiting congregations, Sheryl and I will be heading home this week. We have one last stop in Oklahoma City to speak at a Future Preacher’s Training Camp at the North MacArthur congregation. We have covered thousands of miles. We are ready to get back to Denver and begin another school year with the Bear Valley Bible Institute in Denver.

A new class of students is set to begin classes in Denver, as well as, several locations within the Extension Program. A new class of students also brings new opportunities to prepare men to be set for the defense of the gospel. Only God knows the ways these men will be used to fulfill His will to the building up of the body of Christ in the future. To God be the glory!

The beginning of another class reminds me of how quickly time flies. Sheryl and I are beginning our fourth year with the Bear Valley Bible Institute. It is hard to believe, yet we are more excited than ever with the potential for the future. More men are becoming interested in the work of preaching the gospel and with each class more souls will have an opportunity to hear the saving message of Jesus.

Several reports this week indicate the interest and growth of the Lord’s kingdom. I know your time in reading these reports will be a blessing to you.

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

Extension Reports 

Attitude Makes A Difference: As the training continues in Cameroon, the growth in attitude and evangelism continues as well. 

Challenges In Cambodia: Chann’s report shares some of the challenges facing the church in Takam Village, as well as, plans for VBS in Cambodia.

Opportunity And New Class Potential: The work in Honduras offers new opportunities for preaching. Also, the potential of new students is increasing.

One Great Tool...Safari For Souls: If you have not been keeping up with the Safari For Souls campaign reports, you need to read this one. The work is incredible and worth reading.

Can We Ride The Cannibals? If this title gets your attention, you will love the story. The work in Arusha continues to show the power of God working through His people. 

Final Thoughts

I often think about the power of prayer and how it affects the work of the Lord’s church around the world. I pray for each of the schools, the men and their families who are working in the extension program everyday. When I read the reports each week, it reminds me of how God is answering my prayers and I am sure the prayers of many.

I also pray for you because I know your involvement in this work is vital to its success. Thank you for making the Bear Valley work a part of your daily prayers. Thank you for reading the reports and keeping the work of the Lord a priority in your life.

Greater activities are just about to begin as classes resume in most of the schools. The reports continue to grow. 

God bless
Bob

Attitude Makes A Difference...

Dearest in Christ,

Accept greetings from this end. I do hope you are doing well in all that you do. We are also doing great here in CBIW and God is doing great things in His vineyard. Do your best to extend our greetings to your family and the church.

This week was a busy one for all of us in CBIW. Brother Hilman Orume, who lives close to the school here in Wotutu, finally accepted the gospel after 7 months of study with the students. He accepted the gospel and smiled coming out of the water for a new life to start after this exercise. Please keep him in your prayers to walk worthy of his calling.

The students keep growing in their devotional and the chapel them was “An Attitude That Makes A Difference.” The theme was to help our students know that they are supposed to be transformed in all their ways to make way for the gospel they preach.

I, and one lecturer left the school over the weekend to attend a study workshop on the book of 1 Corinthians under the them, God’s Solution To A Problem Church,” organized by the Batibo Church of Christ in the Northwest Region about 300 miles from Wotutu. It was the first of its kind in Cameroon and I was assigned 1 Corinthians 1 and 2. The workshop went on well.

I left the workshop to a struggling congregation in a village where I was assigned to teach on Sunday. I had to cross a big river with a cane bridge. Souls are everywhere to rescue. Thank you for your prayers, for I returned to school yesterday evening safe and sound to continue the work to train men to preach and also to help the Wotutu and Tole congregations move ahead.

I am crossing a traditional bridge to another village over the weekend to preach and teach. It was wonderful. They need our students during the next campaign. It will really help the villagers to see the light of the gospel and escape from their wicked traditions and practices.

Brother Tobias, over the weekend, visited a village far from the school on personal evangelism to one of his childhood friends. There is no church in that village. His report gives us insight about the possibilities to extend our work there. Keep us in your prayers to meet up with all of the challenges. 

PLANS
Some students will be going to the Tole congregation this weekend for weekend evangelism. Please keep them in your prayers.

We shall move to a new virgin land next month to establish a congregation. Please keep us in your prayers. 

APPEAL
A public address system, and transportation remain a stumbling block to most of our visions.

Thank you very much for being a part of this soul winning team. We think souls! Please do your best to think in our direction so that the work and the vision we have will keep going to the glory of our King.

Do your best to share this report with others. 

God bless you and watch over you.
Elangwe and family.
By His grace, director of CBIW

Challenges in Cambodia...

Greeting in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ from Siem Reap, Cambodia.

I am very honored to report to you all with some information concerning the work in Siem Reap.

We are now in a challenge with a denomination at Takam village, as the church there and a denomination there don't have a registration yet, so we have to have a registration before them to cover the work and the church there. Now we got a form to run that registration already but we need to prove by the head of commune, head of district, department of cults and religions office, and come to department of cults and religions, then come to the head of province and the last one we have to go to the ministry of cults and religions in Phom Penh.

In running the register we have to spend some money to them, so we ask you to pray for us as we will need the register as soon as possible for the church at Takam, before a denomination have it. 

We also planned for our VBS 2011 that will take place on Friday and Saturday next week 29-30 July 2011 and our Theme is JESUS LOVES CHILDREN, Mat. 19:13-16.

As now we have a vacation for our school, our students went out to visit their friends and families, and they will be back for their two year program. Things are doing alright.

I will report you more about our VBS next week. Thanks for your support for the work in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

God bless you all with strength and soul

In the love of Christ
Chann

Opportunity And New Class Potential...

Thank you, brother. My mother has been left very affected with the loss of her mother. I took advantage to preach the Gospel to all the people that had come together, all my mother’s family are sectarian and they gave me the opportunity to speak, so that without losing time I spoke the truth of the Gospel to more than 60 people united, including 20 “pastors” who only bowed their heads before the truth.

We have a total of 8 students, 3 married and 5 single. I still do not have confirmation of the two in Olancho but this week I will have their confirmation. If they confirm there will be 10 in total. I don’t know if I have overlooked anything, but I will keep you informed.

Well, with respect to the vocational training; there has always been the idea. The problem is that we do not have teachers in Danli that impart those classes, since there is much pride in the people and they do not want to teach because they say that they would have less work there being more competition. I had been speaking with the brethren of Hillcrest if it was possible that brethren who are experts in those areas such as welding, electricity or small engine repair could come to teach during some period, but there was no confirmation with respect to that. It was just a talk that we had. I don’t know what you think.

We are praying that you will be successful in gathering all the funds necessary and have an abundance. 

God bless you for your effort.
Nery

Can We Ride The Cannibals?

Dear Co-laborers, 

Our campaign in Kisongo has come to a close. Brian Horner preached to a full house (full of visitors, new converts and regular members) on the subject of "Why We Believe in Jesus." After services, a man named Jakata was baptized. The Kisongo campaign (all organized and planned by the Tanzanian brethren) was a success due to many factors. Number one being "the people had a mind to work." Many (Tanzanians and Americans) were involved in door knocking, Bible studies, cooking, clean-up, setting up the tent, yard work, teaching, preaching. Some began early and stayed late. One dedicated woman worked continuously although she was "on vacation" from her regular job. The Lord blessed our efforts with so many good contacts with whom we will continue to study.

Jimmy's nephew, Steven, will be glad to hear that the work he did while here is STILL producing results. Hendrick (new Christian) has been encouraging Alexander, with whom Steven studied but has not yet converted. Alexander, his wife and little girl Rosie, attended our services today and have requested more study!

It was thrilling to see our new Christians (Jane, Jessica and Dorisi) plus two visitors in the ladies Bible class. One visitor was there as a direct result of the campaign workers. Our text, Genesis 14, where Abraham rescues Lot from captivity, was a perfect opportunity to make the analogy of how we should rescue those in spiritual captivity and should put forth the time, effort and expense (as Abraham did) to help our Christian brothers and sisters to remain faithful. Please pray that the church at Kisongo will take the time to visit, encourage and strengthen these new brethren so none will "fall through the cracks."

Remember Joyce (Janet's sister) who said her father didn't want her to be baptized because her baby was so young? After several more studies by different people, she obeyed the gospel! Of course, you know Lembris because his name is usually in the report every week. Another brother was baptized this past week!

Tom Watkins and Terry Wall have returned to Longido this weekend (after working with and preaching in the Kisongo campaign). Those from the Zachary, LA congregation should get ready to hear about all their adventures. If you need some excitement, a sense of fulfillment, purpose and satisfaction, then come to Tanzania to teach the Gospel. There's rarely a dull moment and your days will pass faster than a "weaver's shuttle."

"Can we ride the cannibals?" Elijah asked Jimmy this as they were leaving to go to Snake Park. Elijah is always good for a laugh...he meant the camels. Speaking of snakes, one was killed (15 feet from Trina’s chair) shortly before services began the first night of the meeting.

Tanzania is still plagued with water and electricity problems (probably due to the lack of rain but also, according to the Tanzanians, due to government corruption). We went 3 days last week without enough water to wash clothes (just had enough to drink, wash dishes, take sponge baths and occasionally flush toilets). We are low again but the water truck cannot come again until tomorrow (and we're not holding our breath that they will arrive then). We are only able to write this report because our generator is on (and it's having problems from being on so much!)

Non-Christian Agatha (been mentioned many times) gave birth to a beautiful baby girl (Catherine) last week. The Oklahoma group left brand-new baby clothes and I delivered some to Agatha. She was very thankful and, since it is a tradition that new mothers here stay confined to their house (and bed) for months, this will provide the perfect opportunity for us to continue our study!

Our appreciation is extended to you for your kindness and support of us and this work. We also extend our thanks to all that Brian Horner, Jessica Smith, Austin Horne, Tom Watkins and Terry Wall have done while they have been here. They all leave this week (Monday and Thursday). Please pray for their safe travel back home. My friend Helen is not improving on her "herbal medicine," is still weak and in pain due to her cancer. Trina hopes to visit her this week (two of her children were in services today). Have a blessed week! 

In Christian Love,
Jimmy, Trina, Lindsey, Abigail, Heather, Candace, Stuart, David, Naomi, Elijah and Matthew Gee

One Great Tool...Safari For Souls: Read On

Greetings Fellow Workers; 

We continue in the Lord, praying all is well and that the Lord is blessing you in such a way that it lead you to greater works to His glory. We never take for granted the many blessings we have from Him, through you. We are a blessed people to be sure, and we know the best is yet to come.

Safari for Souls - what comes to your mind when you read these words; “Safari for Souls”? Andrew Connally shared this idea with me many years ago. Based on what he said, the good seen from such efforts, and knowing this was God’s will, I too believed and have supported such efforts for the past eighteen years. 

Safari for Souls - has been a major part of the Tanzania 2000 mission effort from the beginning. We know this is God’s will because He said; “go into all the world” and He has said the purpose of the “Church” was to seek and save the lost. We know it is God’s will because it is through the “preaching of the Gospel” that we are to know God, His will and know of the salvation that comes only through Christ.

Safari for Souls - is but one tool the Lord uses to edify the Saints. Volumes could be written as to the lives that have been changed by those who have had enough faith to “step out” in faith, and often stepping out of their “comfort zone” to do God’s will. We have been privileged to witness first hand many lives changed for the good, because they came and through making a difference in the lives of countless souls here in Tanzania, their lives have been changed.

Safari for Souls - Kisongo ends today with one more soul being added to the Kingdom. The follow-up continues with the other congregations and as of this writing 65 souls have given their lives to Christ through God’s Safari for Souls efforts this year. Say what you might, think as you will, but the results simply speak for themselves. 

Safari for Souls - campaigners, congregations and God, we say thank you! Thank you all for the difference you have made, continue making and to God be the glory. 

East Africa Gospel Meeting - will be conducted at Busia, Uganda. This effort is a direct result of the example set by the Safari for Souls efforts. Each year they rotate between Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania. This is planned, supported and executed by the congregations in East Africa. Yet another example of the true Church growth we have experienced through the TZ2000 mission effort. Jimmy has been invited to speak this year on the subject of; “Marriage and Divorce” and I have been invited to speak on the subject of “The Power of the Cross.” We are both honored and excited about the opportunity and will be traveling to Uganda in three weeks to support this evangelistic effort.

We close with grateful hearts and prayers for each of you. We thank you for joining hands with us in the simple, yet profound goal, seeking and saving the lost by glorifying God by caring out His great commission. 

In Him, 
Cy, Stephanie & Granny

It Is About Making A Difference...

Sharing the news about Extension Training with others keeps me excited about the work. I love seeing the encouragement it brings to others and I am encouraged by the willingness of so many great people to get involved in the future of the work.

So far, during July, I have been given opportunity to visit with several congregations about the work we are doing through Extension Training. I cannot put into words how edifying it has been for Sheryl and me to be with those of like mind. 

Please consider how you can be involved in making a difference by fulfilling the Great Commission through Extension Training. There are a number of levels where you are needed. First, we need your prayers. I do not want this idea to ever seem trite, or as if it is the “least” we can do. It is the most important step needed in the success of this work. I thank you for your prayers and plead with you to be praying everyday. Pray for the students, instructors, coordinators, and the various needs within each location.

Second, we need teachers. Every year there are numerous classes being taught around the world as “short courses.” These classes go for two weeks, one class each week. We have a number of subjects and 15 locations to choose from. If you are interested in helping out in this way, please send me an e-mail and we can begin discussing the possibilities.

Third, we need promoters. Each of you receiving this letter can forward it to others. Please share the news about the Extension Training program with others you know. I have seen the way God can powerful work through someone else, once they were informed to the need. God works providentially in ways we cannot imagine and sometimes it was by simply forwarding an e-mail.

Fourth, we need financial assistance. It is the most challenging part of this work. There are monthly and one time needs. If you are interested in supporting a student or helping buy any of the various “one-time” needs within a school, again, drop me a line and I will be glad to give you some of the specific items needed.

Thank you for your consideration of the various ways you can help in this program. If you would like to know more about any one of these areas, please contact me at bturner@bvbid.org. I look forward to hearing from you and discussing how you can get involved in making the difference in the lives of others.

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

Gary and Sarah Fallis recently returned from Cambodia. They were involved in the work of the International Bible Institute of Siem Reap, as well as, working with the local congregations. Gary’s report includes an article from Phanat Ouch (director of the IBISR) and his wife, Sarah, about the work she did with the women.

Extension Reports 

Making Your Calling Sure: The work in Cameroon focuses on helping the students have reassurance, but it also involves continually evangelizing others with the message of Jesus.

Plans For Growth In Takoradi: Steps are being taken to help the West Coast School of Preaching with physical needs of the school and the development of the students.

Numerical Growth Through Campaigns: Cesar shares great news about the recent increase God provided in two campaigns.

Visitors In Nepal: July saw a few visitors from Texas working with the school in Nepal and helping in the work.

Successful Program In Togo Graduation: Willie Gley provided us with a report about the recent graduation in Togo.

Developments In Uganda: Several areas continue to develop with the work in Busia, Uganda. Francis Wechesa shares the events from the past week.

Thank You For Making A Difference In Tanzania: The Safari for Souls Campaign in Arusha is yielding fruit for the Lord. 

Exciting News In Arusha, Tanzania: The Gee report talks about the growth of the church in Arusha. It is worth reading. 

Final Thoughts
Each report this week continues to demonstrate the difference being made around the world through the Extension Program. The reports are exciting and God is being glorified through the work. I am constantly amazed at the growth God is giving to efforts of so many.

I hope you all know how important your role is in the development and growth of this work. Cy Stafford said it best when he wrote; “thank you for making a difference.” You truly are making an eternal difference in the lives of so many folks around the world. Thank you.

God bless
Bob

Thank You For Making A Difference In Tanzania...

Greetings Fellow Workers:

What a week the Lord has blessed us with. We pray all is well in your life of service to the Lord and in His Kingdom. Our prayers of thanksgiving are offered up on your behalf daily. We realize it is through you the Lord is allowing such grand efforts and success here in Tanzania and throughout all East Africa to be what is has been.

We are about to engage in our fifth Safari for souls campaigns of the year. The Kisongo campaign will begin tomorrow (Tuesday). This is one of many congregations the Arusha Church has planted. The Andrew Connally School of Preaching students attend and support this congregation when they are in session.

This year we went the extra mile with our supporting short term campaigners from OK, TN, AL, MS, GA and LA in making sure the pre-campaign efforts and follow-up efforts were in place and as affective as possible. The results are coming in and the numbers are reflecting a marvelous increase from our Lord. The support of our local congregations has been all we could have hoped for and even more.

To illustrate; this past week two souls were added to the Kingdom as a result of the follow up efforts at Manyire. Six souls were baptized into Christ at Kwa Mrombo. Three souls obeyed the Gospel at Kisongo as a result of the pre-campaign efforts. Tom Watkins and Terry Hall from LA worked with a new Church plant at Longido, working among the Massia people and one souls gave his life to the Lord yesterday (Sunday). On Saturday alone seven souls obeyed the Gospel of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

To see all the Lord is doing through the ACSOP graduates, new Church plants, our dedicated co-laborers from the U.S. and the faithful commitment to the cause of Christ from the local Christians is all inspiring. The wonderful cooperation from Jimmy and his family as genuine team players has made all the difference in the world.

When one considers all the above, this has been truly the best of the best when is comes to summer (winter here) campaign efforts. With one campaign yet to complete, we glorify our God for the 56 souls who have already been added to the Kingdom of His dearly beloved Son, Jesus Christ.

Stephanie and I consider it a joy, a blessing, and a privilege to be serving here in TZ. We thank you and we thank our God for this blessing. To all our short term workers who have come, are here and are yet to arrive, we say thank you! Thanks for making a difference in the lives of countless souls and for the positive impact you have had on the Lord Church and work in Tanzania. May our God bless you beyond measure. 

In Him, Cy, Stephanie & Granny