Growth And Students Prepare...

Dear brethren,

We do thank the Lord for the good health He is giving to us. Thank you for your support. For you who are supporting us financially, may our God continue blessing you, and for those of you who only pray for this work, continue doing so, for through your prayers a lot is being done.   

Last week I had traveled to the central province of Kenya and a place called Karatina. Karatina is about 100 km from Nairobi. The Karatina congregation had a gospel campaign which lasted for five days, starting from 25th April to 29th April. Two people were added on to the Lord's body  and they will be congregating with the Karatina church of Christ. 

For me I left Busia Uganda on 27th April and traveled the whole night and reached at 9:00 am the following day and I joined them to go house to house. We were divided into four groups. In my group we visited four homes and we were warmly welcomed in each home we visited. It is our prayer that the seed we planted will germinate.

In the afternoon I was given a chance to teach one lesson, The Church's Responsibility to those who teach them the word of God. On Sunday during Bible class time, I taught about the importance of the Old Testament a Christian. These lessons are much needed here in East Africa as there are very few congregations that support their preachers and teachers. Most congregations where I have taught these lessons have changed and they are giving something to their preachers and that is a good sign of maturity.

These churches, after hearing a lot about the school, one of their members, who is currently living in Nairobi, is willing to come. He might join the school during the next quarter in the English class. The church of Christ that meets in Bujumbura city of Burundi have recommended brother Emmanuel Byamungu and he will be joining the school next quarter. He will be taking a place Samuel Akilimali from Congo, who will be leaving at that time.  

Brother Byamungu knows Kiswahili and French, so we will be putting him in Kiswahili class as none of us can speak French. After his arrival we will be having now students from Kenya, Burundi and Congo. Churches of Christ in Kenya High Lands in a town known as Nyahururu have asked me to speak to them as from 17th to 20th May. Right now we have one student from this area. Migori church of Christ in South west of Kenya will also be having their gospel meeting from 25th to 27th. They have also asked me to go and teach those two lessons. I do use my old Toyota Surf which needs a lot of prayers. It is very easy for it to break in the middle of no where. Pray for us as we travel.

May the Lord Bless you all. 

Yours  In Christ
Francis Wechesa

ACSOP At Work...

Dear Supporters, Family and Friends,

QUOTE OF THE WEEK: “Any small deed DONE is greater than the grandest intention THOUGHT OF.”  

At the last missionary devotional, Cotton Box brought the above quote to our attention. Whether it is original with him or from another source, the statement is certainly true and is worth remembering. Don’t discount the small kindnesses you perform each day...each has its own special value (a cold cup of water...) and it only takes a spark to start a flame. 

This past week has been a particularly stressful one for Trina. Health issues (stomach bacteria and a terrible sty on her eye), inside-house painting  which also turned into floor painting (the furniture had to be moved TWICE), dealing with the chaos of an “upside-down” house, other side issues plus the “normal” day-to-day responsibilities/work of taking care of a family of 11  have been especially “challenging” (translation: it has taken much extra effort to maintain a positive attitude and to behave properly and failing on many occasions!)

Because the painting was something the landlord was asked to do, Trina said many times, “ME AND MY BIG MOUTH!” After painting some floors, the workmen first said, “No water on it for 2 days.” Then later, “Make that 3 days.” Next day they said, “Don’t use any soap.” What? Never again use any kind of soap on the dirty floors or the paint will come up? After examining the paint can, we saw it was actually roof paint (although when they began the project they assured me the paint was “special for the floor.”)

The landlord gave them permission to buy REAL floor paint (oil based) so now we GET to move some of the furniture (and thus turn the house upside down again) a THIRD TIME. Afterwards, the entire neighborhood has been invited to a farewell party as the “men in the white coats” haul me off to the “hospitali la kicha” (Swahili for “hospital of the insane’). Our company arrives in one week and the energy level is about half of what it used to be. Thankfully, we have four wonderful older daughters who are a great help to us and without whom we may not have survived this past week. We’ve moved houses about 30 times in our 23 years and this painting ordeal was/is about equal to some of our difficult moving experiences!

However, when we think about our co-missionary (Sean Hochdorf) and the issues he has faced recently, we have no reason to complain! He “upstaged” me and my problems (ha/ha) greatly with his appendix problems. Thank you very much for your prayers on his and his family’s behalf. Along with our director, Cy Stafford, they are in Nairobi at the present awaiting possible surgery. Before operating, it was recommended that a CT scan be done to rule out other problems. After checking at FOUR different medical facilities in Arusha and Nairobi and being told (at all four) that the CT scanner was broken, one was finally located. Sean had already sent his passport to the American Embassy in Dar es Salaam to get extra pages added. When the need to travel to Kenya came up, that process had to be expedited. Jimmy has been in contact with the Hochdorf’s almost daily but we’re sure they even had more problems than what we heard about. The Hochdorf family hasn’t even had time to really get settled (their container full of their household supplies/furniture is still sitting in Dar es Salaam with “issues” of its own). The devil tries hard to discourage God’s Work in Africa (maybe for good reason because it is so successful) but when one perseveres, God rewards greatly. The missionaries feel fortunate to have both Dr. Smelser and his wife Nancy, and Stephanie Stafford (RN) here to give assistance/advice. Please continue your prayers for this family and for Sean’s quick recovery.

The construction work on the Ladies’ and children’s classrooms continues at the Kisongo church building. Metal bars on the windows (a must in Africa) and metal doors were installed this past week. Due to a problem with the locks, we could not get inside. So the ladies and children joined the men’s class on Acts (Ahimidiwe taught). Jimmy taught the New Converts Class and preached (to a packed auditorium) a powerful sermon on being “Imitators of God.”     

Grace, a 15-year-old friend of Abigail (whom she studies with nearly every Sunday), attended both Bible study and worship today. She has several relatives who are Christians and came with her aunt. While Grace’s father may prevent her temporarily from being baptized, he is not preventing her from learning the Truth. To God be the Glory!

Lindsey has been trying, unsuccessfully, to study again with a young lady named Jackie (18-year-old neighbor of new Christian Teresia). Some time ago, we reported that at the first study Jackie said, “Without God life is nothing” when asked why she wanted to study. Jackie was not home at the last scheduled study. She is busy with school, Girl Scouts and spends about 3-4 hours each Sunday at the Pentecostal denomination. Lindsey heard that Jackie’s mother did not want her to study (We’re supposing she is afraid she will leave the Pentecostal group as Teresia did).

You may remember a visitor named Esther (who travels to different area villages selling onions and tomatoes). She has agreed to a Bible study but couldn’t give us a day and time. Esther is supposed to call this week when she figures out her schedule.

“I’M SURPRISED YOU WOULD TREAT THE BIRTHDAY BOY LIKE THIS,” Elijah replied Saturday morning as we required him (and David) to go outside for 30 minutes due to running and screaming in the house. We celebrated Elijah’s 6th birthday yesterday in “military” style and putting candles in donuts that Heather made instead of a cake. (Speaking of Heather, she is so excited about meeting the Akins in Nairobi that we may have to tie her hands behind her back to keep her from packing her suitcase so early!)

THE ACSOP AT WORK. Last week, we reported on a story that now we have more (and perhaps different) facts about. Felix Myombe, 2007 ACSOP graduate, returned to his home congregation in Mbeya (south Tanzania) to begin working with the preacher, Edwin Tusekelege. During the 2 years Felix worked with Edward, part of his evangelistic work included teaching Bible knowledge in a local secondary school. Because the administration required a two-year teaching certificate (for him to continue teaching) he enrolled in a teachers’ college at Morogoro. While there, Felix began a campus ministry where he invited fellow members of the church (three) and others to study the bible and fellowship together. As part of this ministry, he enrolled 46 fellow students in a BCC written by Roger Dickson (missionary to South Africa). During their study of two years, the students began to understand Bible authority and realized that all religious questions should be answered strictly from the Bible.

After completing the course, Felix decided to award the 46 students a certificate in a special graduation ceremony (a week before their graduation from the teachers’ college.) Felix requested that Christopher Mwakabanje (ACSOP Director of Swahili Program) attend as the guest speaker. After the ceremony, the students stayed an hour and a half asking Bible questions. The Senior lecturer of the teacher college attended this special graduation ceremony and made this profound statement, “How can we deny what you are saying because it is coming from the bible?” Very impressed with both Felix and Christopher, he promised to allow the campus ministry to continue although Felix has graduated. 

What really struck us as amazing was the reason stated by Felix as to why he began the campus ministry. While attending an ACSOP class (Kings and Chronicles) his instructor (Christopher Mwakabanje) told the preacher students: “when you move to new place, it is easy to hide who and what you are because no one knows you. In order to keep from falling away and living in sin, live your Christianity for all to see.” When Felix moved to Morogoro to obtain his teachers’ certificate, he remembered this and knew he should do something public to help himself stay faithful. So the campus ministry came to be. As a result, 46 nonchristians have studied the Bible for 2 years. As yet, none have become Christians but we know God has promised that his word will not return unto Him void (Isa. 55:11). Please say a special prayer that these students will obey the Word they have been taught. We are thankful to God for Felix, Christopher and the ACSOP which is made possible by people like you who are willing to sacrifice and do without some luxuries and conveniences so that word can be taught in TZ and all of East Africa.  

With Love from Africa,
The Jimmy Gee family

P.S. There will be no report next week due to the trip to Nairobi to pick up the Akin family.

Gospel Brings Two Souls To Christ...

Dearest in Christ,

Accept greetings from this end. We do hope you are doing great. We just finished our worship while you are either half way into yours in the USA or almost preparing to go now. We had a great worship service and we wish you same over there.

The work of the school and our congregation here and nearby ones are doing great. The students of CBIW are doing fine in health and studies.

The Wotutu congregation worshiped this day with a dark atmosphere as one of our brothers, Vincent Chamboli, who stayed very close to the church hall lost his daughter of 3 years after suffering from severe anemia. It was really sad to this young couple and to the congregation here in Wotutu.

This week we decided to pay more attention to visiting our Christians who will intend to invite their friends to await our students in their home. The exercise was wonderful and the students and some leaders of Wotutu congregation had ample opportunity to encourage and also share the gospel to some members of the families who are not Christian. The exercise went on well and the Lord added two precious souls into His church in Wotutu.

The gospel was also shared in our young congregation Mondoni village, Tole and Matoh Butu, as 5 students were signed out for weekend evangelism in those locations. Thanks for being part of this work. It is cutting across to many localities and many lives are being touched.

The radio program, through our PA system, is cutting across many in our community and the surrounding villages. Three, first time visitors, came to worship today with the church  here and confessed the truth and exposure of truth from that program. Keep them in your prayers to obey the truth and escape corruption in this world (Acts 2:40).

The students are progressing and we shall start exams for the second quarter on the 28th. Keep the students and staff in your prayers.

Plans
1) During the third week of this month we shall move to a new village, Ebnimi, for the establishment of a new congregation there. Keep this work in your prayers.

2) The Batoke mission work is still pending. We are praying to move, but the takeoff seems slow. We do not want to force ourselves to go. God is in control.

3) The preacher’s wife forum will be held in Wotutu on the 31st of May. It will be the first of its kind. Keep it in your prayers, as older preacher’s wives will come and help teach their experiences in the mission field to these young ones before they get there.

4) Please keep my trip to the conference in Zambia in your prayers, as I am having the interest, but the means are not there. If you can be of help then it will make it possible.

Thanks for all you are doing for the work here, God bless you and your entire family. Continue to share this with others who may one day happily be part of the work.

Prayer Request
Please keep me father-in-law, brother Paul Fon, in your prayers. He was diagnosed now for prostate cancer. God bless and watch over you in all your endeavors throughout the week.

Announcement
Brother Nda Mesach over the weekend went for his traditional marriage with sister Odilia. Keep them in your prayers to be happy as they join together to serve the Lord. I will share pictures of that with you next time.

Elangwe and family
By His grace director CBIW

Ukraine Graduation Is Near...

Hello dear brothers, families and churches. 

Finally the warm weather settled here in Ukraine, and summer is knocking on our door. Our country is getting ready for the EURO-2012 soccer championship, which will take place in June. There will be many tourists and foreigners, so the prices of food and other goods are slowly rising.  We hope that this event won't make a huge impact on Ukraine's economy, and after the soccer championship prices will stabilize. 

The Institute is doing well. Second-year students are looking forward to May 26, which will be their graduation day, and they will receive their diplomas after completing the program. This year we have five students graduating. Two of them have already started preaching at their hometowns, and we hope that all of them will keep spreading the Gospel and be faithful and devoted to God’s people.   

In April, we had several events with the students: played volleyball together, had barbecue, cleaned the territory and the building of the Institute (e.g. washed windows). Some may consider these events as minor, unimportant and not worthy to be mentioned, but I think that they help in bringing people together and creating bonds. Often during such events, many brothers and sisters open up and share their thoughts and views and start trusting one another. I love my job and believe that this positive example that we set at the Institute will be remembered by students and will be reflected in their ministry for God's church. 

In previous letters I wrote that we have an opportunity to teach leaders of the Baptist churches that split from the Baptist union and now became independent. In the middle of April, I traveled to their congregation, which is located about 80 km from Gorlovka, and I had an opportunity to preach and have personal conversation with the leader of that congregation. I don't know what the outcome will be, but now they listen, think about and accept some points of Biblical teaching. Teachers of the Bible Institute made a decision to take turns and visit them every month and teach them the sound Biblical doctrine. If any of you have an experience of converting people from denominations to the sound doctrine, please write to me. I always try be careful and understand the dangers of communication with denominations, but if people are listening and ready to accept the sound teaching, I think, we should preach the truth. 

I keep looking for the prospective students. We have less people willing to enter the program this year than in the past. Please pray for us to meet with faithful Christians who are ready to commit themselves to service for God. Together with students, I have visited the Church of Christ congregation in Mezhevaya. There was a wonderful Sunday service, and Dennis Petrov made a presentation of the Institute. The biggest downside is that churches of Christ in Ukraine are small in size, and they consist of women mostly. This creates another difficulty in finding students for the next school year. 

Denton Landon arrived to teach at the Institute, and we thank God for his safe arrival. We are also looking forward to seeing other teachers who will come to teach in May and June. We pray that their travels to Ukraine are safe.   

We have planned to organize a youth conference in May, and its topic will be: "Dating: Do We Need Boundaries?" and, if any of you were closer, I would invite you to come, too. Also there will be graduation and Master's program will resume in May.

I want to thank you for your support and trust, and that you are interested in God's work here in Ukraine. Students send you their greetings and the best wishes. We pray for you and for God's churches in the US and all over the world. 

If you have any questions, wishes or comments, I would be glad to hear and respond to them.

Your brother and coworker,
Dennis

To read Dennis' report and see the pictures, click here.

Maturing The Church In Cambodia...

Dear brethren, it is with joy that I write to inform you of what's going on with the work of Jesus Christ in Siem Reap, Cambodia! As some of you may know, we are approaching our final quarter for our 2nd year students. We are already starting to make plans for the graduates as to where they will serve upon graduation and also for future students to enroll in IBISR. 

One very exciting bit of news is that we are taking small steps to becoming autonomous. The local church has plans to fully support one of the graduates who is going to go back home to preach and grow the congregation there. His name is Lon and he will be going back to Takam village to be the point man there. I am very excited and impressed that he is willing to go back home and work with the brethren there. It's impressive because most village students who've come to Siem Reap want to stay in Siem Reap and work in the city because there's more opportunities here. 

It's just like the church in America who sponsors a foreign student to learn the Bible, but instead of going back to his country, he stays in America because of the benefits thereof. That is why it's impressive to me and that's why the church will do whatever is necessary to support such a one. 

I am also excited because the church has shown her stewardship and spiritual growth by taking the initiative and responsibility of supporting one of her own instead of relying on American funding to pick it up. It may not be a big deal to some, but if you take into consideration the fact that 5 or 6 years ago, in this area, people didn’t even know what the Bible was, we had to start from the ground up to where we are now. It truly is incredible what God has done in these past few years! We serve a wonderful and powerful God and he deserves all the glory and honor and praise!

Phanat

To see Phanat’s report with a picture of Lon, click here.

ITL Is Reaching Guatemala...

This month's report is full of growth and development with the work at ITL in Guatemala. Click here to read all the news.

A 50 Year Celebration At Bear Valley...

The Bear Valley Church of Christ celebrated its 50th Anniversary yesterday. The day was filled with an atmosphere of great joy and reunion through presentations of this great congregation’s development and influence over the past 50 years.

One significant part of the work of the Bear Valley congregation has been seen in the 47 years the Bear Valley Bible Institute has been training men to preach the gospel. The establishment and growth of the Bible Institute expanded even further in 1997 when it began partnering with others around the world preparing men for the work of ministry. 

Thousands of men and women have gained a greater understanding of God’s word and are serving in various capacities around the world as a part of the Lord’s kingdom. While it is exciting, the very thought of how many souls have been touched by this work is humbling. Our God is incredible and how He continues to work through His people to His glory is nothing short of astounding. I am blessed and thankful to have a small part and to be working with you.

As you will read in the reports this week, God continues to give the increase in powerful ways throughout the various locations where schools are preparing men to preach. It is awesome to think of the fellowship we have as fellow-workers with one another and our God laboring in His vineyard.

Now on to the other reports...

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

Keith Kasarjian’s full report involving his recent trip to Arusha is here.

Click here to read the latest report from Donnie Bates about his trip to Honduras. 

Gary Fallis recently returned from Arusha, Tanzania. Click here to read his report.

Extension Reports 

A New Brother In Cameroon: The working of God’s word in the heart of one who would seem to be the least likely to respond produces fruit for the Lord’s kingdom.

New Students Arrive In Uganda: A new class of students begin their course work in the Uganda School of Evangelism.

Looking To The Future In Cambodia: The development of the church in Cambodia gives hope for leadership in the future.

Classes, Breakdowns, And Evangelism: Recent travel challenges demonstrate the difficulties often faced in Chimala, but the work continues.

Souls Are Added To The Kingdom: The God we serve continues to give the increase as souls are obeying the gospel in Arusha.

Fun, Fun, Fun in Tanzania: While there is much activity in Tanzania, this is cute and provides a missionaries perspective on the events on the mission field.

One Special Night In Arusha: Nothing is more special than the opportunity to baptize your own children then they are ready to accept Christ. 

Final Thoughts
At times I find it very difficult to adequately express the depth of my gratitude. There are so many areas for which I am thankful. I am thankful to God for the opportunity to share in this work with each of you. I am thankful for each person who plays a part (there are no small or insignificant parts) in the overall work. 

I look forward to the future in our efforts together to make an eternal difference in the lives of people all over the world. God is GREAT!

God bless
Bob

One Special Night In Arusha...

April 25, 2012 - 10:40 PM Under the stars of the African sky I had the privilege of baptizing my daughter into Christ.

We are so excited and overjoyed to report that our daughter Madeleine was obedient to the gospel by putting on Christ in baptism last night. There is no greater joy than knowing that your children have come to accept Christ and desire to serve him. It was also a privilege for us to have our dear friends Cy & Stephanie Stafford and Madeleine's close friend, Melissa Burnett, attend. Such friendships only enhance an already glorious occasion.

On behalf of Anita and myself we want to offer our gratitude to those who have encouraged and taught Madeleine over the years. Your godly influence means more to us than you will ever know. 

In Christ,
Sean Hochdorf

Souls Are Added To The Kingdom...

Greetings Fellow Workers:

With hearts of joy we greet you all. We thank you for all you do and mean to the Kingdoms’ work. God is doing mighty works here in Tanzania/East Africa through your prayers and support. This past week was a grand week for the Church and, as a result, souls have been saved. 

Blessings: We were blessed by the company and co-labor of Cotton & Beulah Box, Dupree & Soneia Galloway and Eric Graham. Eric is the nephew of Soneia from Jackson, MS. This was Eric’s fist trip to Tanzania. Hopefully, he will bring his wife and two children back in the future.

During the two week stay, Cotton and Dupree worked with David Bayi on the slopes of Mt. Meru around the Kioga area. After twenty-one or more studies, seven souls gave  their lives to Christ. Cotton, Dupree as well as Gene Davis have been coming to TZ for several years working primarily with the Kioga congregation as well as the Ushirombo congregation with Yusuph Madaki. 

What a blessing our coworkers have been to the overall work. The Kioga congregation continues to grow through their efforts as well as the hard work of David Bayi. The first Sunday service this year they broke one hundred in attendance. This is a great example of cooperation and God’s blessing His workers work. 

Opportunity: In our last report we informed you of the passing of our late brother Paul Ndwani. His wife is left without a means to provide for herself or their two youngest children. They are currently in need of school fees. They will be dismissed from school at the end of May if this need is not met. The fee’s are $200 per term each (total per year cost is $600 each, or $50 per month). We would like to secure a Sponsor for each child, willing to help this family in need. If you can, in whole or in part, please let me know and I will let you know how to send the funds.

Request: Over the next several weeks we will have many visitors/coworkers coming to work with us in the many Safari for Souls campaigns. We solicit your prayers on their/our behalf that God might bless them, their/our efforts and that God might be glorified through all the efforts to the saving of many souls. Please pray, pray daily, pray often! God is able and through the faithful prayers of His Saints all things are indeed possible. 

For the many answered prayers we praise God and we thank you. May your week be all you hoped it would be and more. You are in our hearts and prayers.  

In Him, 
Cy, Stephanie & Granny

Fun, Fun, Fun In Tanzania (please read)...

Dear Supporters, Family and Friends, 

We are thrilled to have two new sisters in Christ! Maddie Hochdorf (daughter of co-missionaries Sean and Anita Hochdorf) and Lucy (Matthew's therapist). Please pray for these two new sisters as they begin their new lives in Christ and grow and mature in the faith.

In family news, Trina has been sick for several days with some kind of stomach bacteria. In addition, we have a house full of fundis (Swahili for "workmen") who are breaking up cement to repair cracks in the floors and walls, and scraping and painting walls. We are trying to get the house ready for the upcoming family visit! We also had some excitement on Friday night. About 11 PM the breaker box caught on fire. Flames were shooting several inches out of the top of it. It went out on its own, thankfully. It turns out that the breakers were defective in someway, according to Innocent Mafayo, a brother in Christ who is a former employee of the electric company. So, we went without power Friday night and most of the day Saturday until the repairs were done. Fun, Fun, Fun!!

We said goodbye to the Galloway and Box families as well as Eric Graham (nephew of Soniea Galloway). We are so very thankful they came our way again. Many were encouraged and seven souls were added to the Kingdom. It is always a joy to be with them and they always do a great amount of good wherever they work in this country. We pray they had a safe trip home and will rest up from their trip quickly and come back as soon as possible.

Lindsey has had some studies with Sophia and Rehema. She has another one scheduled for today with Jackie. Please pray for Lindsey and these ladies as they study together.

On Wednesday of this week Christopher Mwakabanje announced in chapel at the ACSOP that he had received an invitation from a graduate of the school to come to Morogoro to help with his work. Felix graduated from the ACSOP in November of last year. He was a part of our first Swahili class. Because he had a Bachelor's degree from Bear Valley he was able to get a job in one of the local secondary schools (High School) as the Bible and Divinity teacher (as the government calls it). His instruction brought about many questions from the students. As these students were to graduate yesterday, Felix called and asked that an instructor from the ACSOP come and speak to the graduating class and answer their questions. So, Christopher went on Friday and spoke at the graduation on Saturday. He started his journey back after worship this morning and we hope to have pictures and a full report next week.

As always, we are grateful to God, and to you, for your sacrifices that make our work possible. May He bless you abundantly. 

In Christ,
Jimmy, Trina, and family

Classes, Breakdowns, And Evangelism

We finished the last quarter’s short courses this week at the Chimala Bible Institute. I taught Ezra, Nehemiah and Ruth while Brent Smith taught James through Jude. The students then all enjoyed a cookout at the Bear Valley House Thursday night. 

The bus broke down that was bringing some missionaries from Iringa back to Dar Thursday night and one of the drivers had to use my car to finish the trip. This is a typical occurrence in Africa as the roads we all have to travel are rough and dangerous, but the spirit and evangelism of the students and teachers never wavers. We delivered Brent to the airport in a vehicle which we all know as “ole number 4.” If you had ever seen it or even ridden in it, the old premodern era British Land Rover is an adventure in travel.

As we were traveling with Brent we also had Joshua, Boaz, Ezekiel, Frankie and Binwell in the Land Rover. They went on their way to Mbozie where they were going to preach in two different villages all weekend. Needless to say the ole #4 was being used to the best of her ability and we are glad to report it made the trip. A special thanks to Brent who willingly took his time to return for the second year in a row to teach our students. It is a great sacrifice just to travel here but men like Brent show us all that the spirit of Christ and missions is alive in our great brotherhood. 

We are excited about the sixteen enrolled Masters students that will start two weeks of intense coursework this coming Monday. They too are making great sacrifices to be here. Some travel for two days over these treacherous roads to come and study the Word of God. It truly thrills the soul to see how even the most treacherous trip does not dampen the spirit of evangelism and Bible training that happens every day at the Chimala Bible Institute. 

Garry L. Hill Extension Coordinator
Dean: Chimala Bible Institute

Looking To The Future In Cambodia...

Dear all my beloved brethren

I am vey happy to write this email to you all, and hope through this letter will find you all doing well in your end.

The work of the church in Siem Reap is doing well; Takam and Leang Dai as well. Since we have more couples engaged to the Christian wedding we see some growth among those brethren and they shared the word of God to their relatives friends and family as well. We hope in the next 15 to 20 years we will have elders for our congregation from those brethren. Please continue to pray for all of us as we dedicate ourselves to the work of the Lord in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Next month we will have another couple marry in the Lord and not very long after that we will have another one, so we have a lot of weddings this year. All of those are our first group of students.

That's what I want to share with all of you for now and will keep you updated later.

God bless you all.

Chann

New Students Arrive In Uganda...

Dear brethren,

We are doing fine here in Uganda. The school now has new students. In the Kiswahili class we have 12 students already including Samuel who is remaining with only with one quarter. We are still hoping to get another student from Burundi in the Kiswahili class. 

The six from Congo have arrived and they are doing well in class. In English class we have ten in number, with two more likely to come next week. They came for interview but have not reported. This quarter Samson Omutele from Nairobi is not teaching. He is attending to some church needs in Nairobi. He might be with us next quarter. 

We now have Peter Ambaka from Lumakanda church of Christ in Western Kenya. He is a graduate of Botswana School of  Biblical Studies. He is teaching the book of John in both English and Kiswahili classes. We have also Raymond Mwero from Maliba church of Christ in Kasese Western Uganda. He is teaching Research, and Homiletics in both Kiswahili and English classes. Brother Ouma Christopher is teaching Genesis and Exodus also in both classes. I am teaching Old and New Testament Survey. 

I am also planning to go to Nairobi to check on the prices of  the solar system for our school. A friend has told me that the prices in Nairobi were better than in Kampala. The rain is raining  well here in Busia. We have started working in our school garden. Paul started his agriculture class last Friday. In the morning students go in agriculture class and later go in the field for practicals. We need your prayers. May the Lord God bless you as you serve Him. 

Yours
Francis Wechesa

A New Brother In Cameroon...

Dearest in Christ,

Accept greetings from this end. We are doing fine in health, just for the few who are not fully sound like my wife who is not feeling fine after worship today. The students and staff continue with their responsibilities and God is helping.

Brother Divine, husband to sister Mercy, was angry and brought persecution why the wife is attending the church of Christ. With meekness we took the gospel to him in his home and he started worshipping, but we rejoice with the host of angels as the brother obeyed the gospel this morning.

We do believe that the Lord is doing something great in your life and the life of your local congregation.

The year is speeding and soon we shall start the second quarter exams.

One student went down to help in our young Mondoni congregation. Brother Norbert spoke and listened to the confession that this brother was about to make.

Brother Bea taught Bible study this morning in the Wotutu congregation, on our topic Why I am a Member of the church of Christ. 97 people were able to listen and worship our King. Evangelism is still going on well in Wotutu village every Saturday and our morning preaching through the radio that does not pass through an FM or AM media is still creating much awareness about the truth. A chief called from another village that we were not aware that our waves are getting right there to appreciate the work we are doing. 

Plans
1) I shall attend our annual preacher’s forum in Douala on the 10^th through the 12^th of May 2012

2) Weekend evangelism will take some students far from Wotutu because of the demand from those Christians there. More students keep sending their application forms back to us for study.

3) Plans to organize a preacher’s wife forum is under way.

4) My plans to travel to Zambia is still being looking upon for means to make the trip by His will.

Appreciations
We thank God for helping us meet up with our programs daily. We thank you for your prayers and support towards this work. Do your best to share it with others. May God bless and watch over you all. 

Elangwe and family
By His grace director of CBIW

A Good Place To Start...

A good place to start can sometimes be hard to find. A great deal has happened throughout the extension program over the past week. It is so exciting to read about the growth and development of the schools, but even more so within the church as souls are being added by God through the diligent efforts of servants in the Lord’s kingdom.

While I have one more week of classes I am taking, the week ahead is one I am especially looking forward to taking. The course is called Biblical Foundation of Missions. The focus of the class is to examine the thread of God’s mission as it is seen throughout the Bible, Old and New Testament alike. Especially significant will be the development of leadership within the context of His mission today. I am anticipating an exciting week of learning.

There are several pages of reports to read, so I will not tarry long with the introductory comments for this week’s report. The information being shared is incredibly powerful and I am so thankful to be partnering with the greatest people on earth in trying to fulfill God’s mission of sharing the message of salvation in Jesus Christ. Thank you to all of you who are laboring around the world to make an eternal difference in the lives of those who walk without hope. It is both an honor and a privilege to know you and share in God’s plan.

Now on to the other reports...

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

Steven Ashcraft’s report is below. If you would like to see the full report with all the pictures surrounding the activities of Steven’s work, click here.

Extension Reports 

Evangelism Is Our Mission: It is not the first time you have read this mission statement for the school in Cameroon. However, the efforts of it continue to produce fruit.

Student Studies With Parents: How exciting to read about one of the students at the Visakha Valley Bible College in India to study with and see his parents baptized.

Another Staff Member Marries In Cambodia: The work is growing in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Sometimes in ways we might not anticipate.

An Empty Chair And Debates: A recent accident left an empty chair in the Chimala Bible Institute. Also, a visiting instructor uses debates to help train students.

Growth On A Grand Scale In TZ: Reports from the outreach in several locations near Arusha, Tanzania have seen God bringing growth in great ways.

Kioga Congregation Is Growing: Activities within the Kioga congregation, near Arusha, Tanzania, demonstrate growth and development within the Lord’s church.

Gamachisa, A Barber Worth Reading About: Sean Hochdorf’s recent conversation with a barber in Nairobi proved to be quite interesting.  

Final Thoughts
I will close with a word of gratitude. All of you who read the report each week know how exciting it is to see the increase God is giving week after week. For this, we give thanks. Also, thank you for sharing in the work of these beloved servants of God who are laboring in numerous places around the world. 

I find it amazing we have access to the greatest technology which has made the world a very small place. I cannot travel very far without meeting people who have connections, generally an electronic connection, with someone in one of the locations where an extension school is preparing men to preach the gospel. I love it!

Thank you for all you are doing for the Lord and His kingdom.

God bless
Bob

Gamachisa, A Barber Worth Reading About...

Dear friends and brethren,

On behalf of Anita, Mom, Maddie, Melissa, Dad and myself we send you heartfelt greetings from East Africa. There has been a flurry of activity since I last sent a report and we have made great progress toward our getting settled. Negotiations concerning our rent house have concluded and we were able to come to terms. We moved in the first week in April. Our container has yet to make it to Arusha so we have borrowed items from ACSOP, the Gee’s and the Stafford’s in order to make due until the container arrives. The ladies are happy to be in their own place regardless of the inconvenience of not having our possessions. Their happy so I’m happy.

Even though we have been busy Tanzania can supply reminders that we aren’t immortal. Anita and I have both suffered with malaria. We are almost certain that Anita had cerebral malaria which is fatal if not treated in a timely way. She is still with us so I think we gave her the right medicine. Once Anita recovered from malaria it only took her about a week to fall prey to another of Tanzania’s common issues. She contracted an amoeba and suffered with amoebic dysentery for almost a week. Fortunately, Danny and Nancy Smelser of the Tanzanian Christian Clinic were able to properly diagnose and treat her. The Lord has heard and answered our prayers and we are now all doing well.

We have made trips to several congregations in the area and I have preached and taught bible class on a few occasions. Anita has been conducting a regular bible study with a lady named Lucy. Lucy is the cousin of our dear friend Paulina Elbariki. The study has been going on for almost a month and Anita and mom think that good progress has been made toward Lucy being obedient to the gospel. Anita has taken mom with her on each occasion so she can observe how things are done here in Tanzania. In the near future Anita and mom will swap and mom will conduct the bible study. Pray for her as she, like most of us, is nervous about doing so.

Always abounding in the work of the Lord
Let me encourage each of you as supporters of this work and, more importantly servants of God, to trust in the Lord, be strong and of good courage and tell others about Christ. Perhaps we sometimes lose heart when we think our efforts aren’t bearing the fruit we expect to see but we must remember that we simply do the planting and the watering and God gives the increase (1 Cor. 3:6). We may live a lifetime and never see the results of our labor. We can, however, rest assured as God knows that which we have done (1 Cor. 15:58). In addition to these comments let me offer this story of encouragement. Last week I was in Nairobi to pick up some guests (more about them later). I was in need of a haircut so I ran into a local beauty shop / barber. The barbers name was Gamachisa and he was originally from Ethiopia. Gamachisa asked what I did and where I was from. I proceeded to tell him that I was originally from Texas but now I live in Tanzania and am a teacher and preacher working at a preacher training school in Arusha. 

He said “I too study theology, online.” 

“Interesting, what’s the name of the school where you are studying theology?” 

“Have you ever heard of World Bible School? It is from Texas as well.” 

“Well, of course I have. I have many friends that help with WBS. What is your teachers / graders name?” 

“Her name is Sandra.” 

“Does she happen to be from Round Rock, Texas?” I asked. 

“I believe she is” he replied. 

He asked if there was anyone in Nairobi that could help him study further. I told him we have graduates from the Andrew Connally School of Preaching in the area and they would be more than happy to study with him. We exchanged information and have already been in communication since our initial conversation. I will be returning to Nairobi in another week and am working on arranging a bible study with him and introducing him to Samson, the preacher at the Babadogo congregation.

Just a few days before meeting Gamachisa, the missionary families gathered for a devotional and Cy Stafford delivered a lesson about praying for doors of opportunity to be open. I couldn’t help but think about the lesson when this door of opportunity presented itself. Even more amazing is that Sandra, the lady from Texas, put forth the effort and has made a difference in a young man’s life who lives halfway around the world from her. The power of the gospel coupled with the zealous efforts of dedicated servants of Christ is indeed an amazing, life-changing, dynamic duo (Rom. 1:16; 8:31). Sandra, whomever you may be, thank you for not giving up and doing your best to spread the greatest message the world has ever heard. Sandra’s efforts serve as a good example for us all. Let us sow the seed, pray for good and honest hearts to receive it and then have peace knowing we have done for the Lord what we could.

Visitors from abroad
We are currently enjoying the company of Cotton and Beulah Box and DuPree and Soneia Galloway from Alabama. These couples also serve as a great example to everyone, especially to the seniors among us. I’m not going to get myself into to trouble by guessing an age but I believe I am safe in saying they are all over 60 and a couple of  them over 70. They conduct bible studies all day long leaving early in the morning and returning in the evening. They work every young buck I know under the table. Thus far the studies they have conducted have fallen on good soil and a number of people have been added to the kingdom. Cotton and DuPree work mainly on Mt. Meru and those that are converted attend the congregation at Kioga where David Bai is the preacher. The congregation has seen tremendous growth since its beginning. The Galloway’s and Box’s will be returning home next Friday.

We also have been blessed to have an addition to our home until August. Melissa Burnett, a close friend to Maddie and member at the Granbury Street congregation in Cleburne, worked like a crazy woman and saved enough money to come to Tanzania. It is impressive when a teenager will work 3 or 4 jobs to save enough money and leave the comforts and distractions of America to spend time in a third-world country in an effort to see if she is cut out for foreign mission work. Melissa is a talented, mature, young lady and we believe she will do fantastic here. Teens, are you paying attention? Save your money and come stay with us for a few months. We’ll take good care of you.

Until next time
Well this short report is turning into a small novel so I will sign off for now. Before I go please know that all of us are deeply appreciative of your financial sacrifice. This work would be impossible without it. Thank you for your selflessness.

Until next time, take care and God bless,

Norm, Alice, Sean, Anita, Maddie and Melissa

Growth On A Grand Scale In TZ...

Greetings Fellow Workers,

We rejoice in the fact we have you as brothers and sisters in Christ and that you have joined us in God’s mission work here in Tanzania. A day never passes that we do not think of you and your contributions to the saving of souls through out the world. We are indeed a very blessed people and by God’s mercy, we hope to continue in His service.

This has been a very busy week on many levels. Cotton and Dupree worked with David Bayi on the slopes of Mt. Meru around the area of Kioga. They conducted 15 or so Bible Studies (most having several participants. As a result of David’s efforts, the studies this week and by the power of the Gospel, four new souls were added to the Kingdom of God. Stephanie, Soniea and Beulah have also been very busy. Saturday they had a Bible class with the ladies at the Kwa Mrombo congregation. 

Saturday Cotton, Dupree and I made our way to Moshi where we teamed up with several members of the Kilimanjaro congregation in some house-to-house evangelism. Five studies were conducted with more than ten souls hearing God’s Word. On our way back to Arusha we picked up Soneia Galloway’s nephew, Eric Graham, from Jackson, MS.

Sunday afternoon I was privileged to meet with the evangelist from all the Arusha area congregations. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the upcoming Safari for Souls campaigns. It was agreed that each congregation (Five in number), will conduct a week long campaign at each congregation, concurrently. We are thankful for the group from Hoover, AL coming back to join us in this effort.

Two weeks before the Arusha area wide campaign efforts, our brothers and sisters from Second and Adams (Elk City, OK) will come and join us in a campaign at Maji ya Chai. Are we a blessed people or what?

During the same week OK is conducting their meeting, several congregations are joining hands to hold a meeting at Babati.

I only wish I could share all the good news I get each and every week, like: eight souls obeyed at a new congregation one of our recent graduates planted. A new sister in Christ at Arusha last week, and the list goes on and on. We are a part of a great work of God and by His grace, your prayers and our continued unity, God is and will be glorified and souls will continue to be saved.

We offer up a very special prayer for each of you and all you mean to the Church of our Lord. 

In Him, 
Cy, Stephanie & Granny

Another Staff Member Marries In Cambodia...

Hello coworkers of Christ! As you can see I bunched the first, second, and third weeks of April together simply because the month of April to Cambodians is equivalent to the month of December to Americans. It is the main national holiday month and the new year for the Cambodian people. Therefore, the students and staff have been on vacation to meet with family and friends in their hometown. 

School will resume on Monday the 23rd and things will slowly get back to normal. I also had the chance to conduct another wedding for one of the staff of IBISR the past Wednesday! It was really good to show the villagers of where his bride lives, how Christians conduct the marriage ceremony. I used that opportunity to talk about the origin of marriages and God's plan for mankind. We pray that we can infiltrate that village with the gospel through Savay's new bride. 

Now the whole staff of IBISR are all married and grown up which will help in their preaching and teaching of the gospel because the society here respects those who are older and have families. We thank God for such blessings! We ask that you keep the work of Christ here in your prayers. Thanks for reading and see you next week!

Phanat
p.s. My wife is 2 months pregnant!

To see Phanat's report with a picture from the wedding, click here.

An Empty Chair And Debates...

We returned to the Chimala Bible Institute with Brent Smith, a short course teacher and preacher from Trenton, Tennessee. We enjoyed the trip as we met Brent in Europe and flew to the capital and then early the next morning to Mbeya on the small plane. He and I are teaching the two undergraduate courses and then I will be teaching the graduate courses for our students.

We have been real busy since our return. The students are all looking forward to their summer break and the church work they will do around their villages in Tanzania and Malawi. Lai, one of our Swahili teachers, tells of a restoration this past Sunday at Chosi A. Boaz went with some students out last Sunday and 40 people attended and where Joshua preached with the students. There was a baptism and restoration. 

We were saddened that there was an empty chair in chapel Friday morning. Joseph Haonga had a serious wreck on a motorcycle the evening before returning from preaching a funeral. He will be fine, but we were all concerned. The roads we all travel with our students are dangerous and we need to be extra careful, but travel we all do. Every church that the teachers and students go to all have the same request, please return and teach us.

In Brent’s “Doctrine of the Godhead” classes this week the students got some special training. They prepared and delivered a debate on the “Work of the Holy Spirit.” The debate was taped and the students were able to even learn how they did by watching themselves. This is a problem in the denominations in the area and Brent’s second year class really did an excellent job in defending the truth. So yes, even though it is dangerous to travel, even though the trips are long we are grateful every day to be training these young men here at the Chimala Bible Institute.  

Garry L. Hill, Extension Coordinator
Dean: Chimala Bible Institute

Kioga Congregation Is Growing...

Dear Faithful Co-Workers:

Quote of the Week: “I’m telling you that fame and fortune are not what they are cracked up to be. Every person on the planet is…trapped into programmed thinking that we’re all expected to have a certain amount of material things to be perceived as worthwhile human beings. Sometimes success is a curse that keeps you from paying attention to what’s important. Okay, I was living in a dream, but I’ve woken up.” ---- “Material Girl” Madonna as told to USA TODAY

The above quote reminds us of one made by Solomon who said, “He who loves money will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves abundance with its income. This too is vanity. When good things increase, those who consume them increase. So what is the advantage to their owners except to look on?”(Eccl. 5: 10, 11)

Today, Paulina taught the Ladies’ Class, Jimmy conducted the New Converts Class (translated by Chuchuba) and preached in worship, Ahimidiwe led the Men’s Class and Abigail (with Happiness as translator) taught the Children’s Class. All the Tanzanian teachers and translators are doing so well in contributing to the church now because they received a good foundation and start several years ago. Americans “got the ball rolling” with schools such as the Arusha Bible School, Kilimanjaro Bible School, Andrew Connelly School of Preaching and with the many congregations that were established. These teachers/translators above (plus many others) were trained to “rightly divide the Word” so they could “entrust… to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” The Ethiopian eunuch, when responding to Philip’s question of whether he understood the passage, replied, “Well, how could I, unless someone guides me?” For any given endeavor to succeed, the people involved need good training and guidance.

The first session of classes for the Kisongo Bible School will continue for three more weeks before new classes start. Candace babysits a one year-old and a three year-old at the house for three hours a day, four days a week while a lady named Janet faithfully attends these classes.

Dupree Galloway and Cotton Box have been busy on Mt. Meru, in the village of Kioga, evangelizing and strengthening the brethren there. Their efforts have resulted in eighteen studies and four baptisms! Soneia Galloway taught at a Ladies’ Seminar in Kwa Mrombo on the subject of “Stages and Roles in the Lives of Christian Women.” We welcome Eric (Soneia’s nephew), who arrived last night.

On the family front, Naomi turned 6 years old on Saturday and celebrated with family plus four friends. Unexpectedly, on this same day, the landlord sent workmen to repair the cracks in our cement walls. This procedure consists of taking a hammer and chisel and making the crack larger in order to add extra cement (and sometimes wire).As you may imagine, this creates lots of dust and piles of broken cement (which the workmen did clean up). Next week, we hope they will repair cracks in the floors and hopefully begin painting the entire house.

We appreciate you all! “May the Lord of peace Himself continually grant you peace in every circumstance. The Lord be with you all!”(2 Thess. 3:16).  

In Christian Love,
The Gee Family