Challenges Of Traditional Tanzanian Life...

Dear Co-Laborers:

QUOTE OF THE WEEK: "Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless." Mother Teresa  

SINCE THE LAST REPORT was written on Saturday, we didn't comment on last Sunday's happenings. While driving the "Gospel Chariot" (the old white van) to pick up neighborhood ladies for Sunday services, Trina noticed Lydia walking, all dressed up and carrying a Bible. Normally, this Kisongo member is very late for Bible Study and sometimes misses it, as well as worship, altogether. When we offered her a ride, she explained that she was "escorting" some other family members to the Lutheran church. Tradition has it that after the death of a family member (her deceased husband's grandfather recently died...) the entire family is to attend the church services where most of the family regularly goes. Although Lydia is a weak, 5-year-old Christian, we were still shocked that she would miss the services of the Lord's church to follow a tribal tradition (or perhaps simply family tradition). Happiness translated as we talked with Lydia asking why she was putting tradition before God.We discussed forsaking the assembly, loving the Lord above everyone and everything else, etc. But Lydia decided to go on to the denominational church services. Sadly, during worship, we noticed others in her extended family that were missing. The first 30-minutes of the Ladies class was spent discussing the "forsaking of the assembly" before reading the last part of Genesis 28. Today, the Ladies classed studied the topic of  "Giving" in accordance with the last verse of chapter 28. Last Sunday, Jimmy began a three-part series on the book of "Jonah. His first lesson centered on the subject of "Sin" and how, like Jonah, there is always a "fare" to be paid. Today he continued the series focusing on how a person's sin affects others. 

SPEAKING OF CHURCH MEMBERS, Rosemary is due to give birth any day. Please pray that she will have a safe delivery and that she and her Christian sister-in-law will quit quarreling and attend services more regularly. Pray for our new sister Hilda (taught by Beth Akin) and her baby boy named "Bless." Hilda is very sad because her husband is forcing her to get a job and is REQUIRING her to take their son to his mother who lives far away FOR A YEAR. Although we volunteered to keep Bless, who is less than one year old, so Hilda can still see him in the evenings, the husband is still refusing. Most people in America would be shocked by this common situation in Africa where many children are raised for several years by grandmothers, aunts, etc.  

SPEAKING OF CHILDREN, Paulina and Trina have visited three orphanages, giving away books brought by the Hoover, AL group. Across from the Kisongo market is a sign advertising an orphanage. It boasted that it was not JUST a Children's Home but an empowerment center, giving orphaned/abandoned children the advantages that would lead to success (nutrition, good physical care, education opportunities, opportunities to learn job skills, etc). Imagine our huge disappointment when we found 20 very dirty, barefoot children (12 years old and under) living in a very small house (two small bedrooms, a hall way, and an office) with not one toy or book to be found. There were 6 beds with a few other foam mattresses stacked on the floor. Thankfully, the house-parents were there and everyone was friendly but their sign was sadly misleading. We thought the center was seriously lacking but, because we have become used to seeing some of the "accepted Tanzanian ways," we try not to judge too quickly. However, Paulina, was of the same mind-set ...that this center was not a good one by any means, much less an "enpowerment center." The outside kitchen was not even covered and, if we remember correctly, there wasn't even a "choo"...an outdoor toliet (and no inside one). 

INTRODUCING...Richard Olwenyi, a second-year ACSOP student, scheduled to graduate this November! Richard, who grew up in a Catholic home, is married with 2 young children. A current ACSOP masters' student, Peter Were, taught Richard the Gospel, who, in turn, has taught about 35 more people. His home congregation in Hagulu (Uganda) consists of 16 faithful Christians. Richard says his favorite class was "Personal Evangelism" and that ACSOP has "capable, friendly and qualified instructors."    

ON THE HOME FRONT....our boys are immensely enjoying 2 buckets of Lego's from the states, spending hours building and creating new inventions. There are only two drawbacks to "boys and their attraction to Lego's." Number one is the "nature of Lego's" tend to be that they wander off... all over the house (in and under beds, couches, bathrooms, outside, in the car, etc). Secondly, we agree with comedian Tim Hawkins who says, "Next to giving birth, the most painful experience that can be endured is STEPPING BAREFOOT ON A LEGO!" Going on to other family members, Heather is keeping very busy in the kitchen because Lindsey and Abigail are very busy taking classes at the ACSOP every day plus trying to complete their "home-school" education. Matthew (five years old) is making some progress in speech therapy (made the "G" sound 3 times) and hugged Trina for the first time! Elijah is taking medication for a spider bite.

OLD AS THE HILLS! Conversation overheard: Stuart was pretending to interview David concerning skateboarding. Elijah stated that the competition would begin in 1819. Candace said, "Well, you are a little late!" To which Stuart added, "1819! That's when Dad was growing up!" 

GIVE CREDIT WHEN CREDIT IS DUE! Last week, we failed to mention that most of the photos in the last report were taken by our nephew, Steven Akin. We will probably be using many of his photos in the future because he is very talented with a camera and took many wonderful pictures while visiting here. 

THANK YOU....we are so glad you are interested in lost souls, this mission work and in us. We are interested in you. For those of you whom we do not know as well, write and tell us more about you and your family. We really want to know you better.  

In Christian Love, 
The Jimmy Gee family

God's Mission...

Studying the mission of God throughout the Old and New Testaments has been a very revealing study. I have enjoyed learning to look for the ways in which God works through His people to be a light to the nations of the world. Obviously, we know that Christians today have the responsibility of being this light. We are to reflect the light of Christ in our lives in ways to help others find the hope God provides through His Son.

What is the mission of God? In a word, we would understand it as salvation. From the promise made to Abraham to the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus, and until the return of our Lord, the thread of mission is seen in scripture and must be the heartbeat of our lives today. We could examine several areas that play a significant part of this mission, but one will suffice for this report.

Over and over in the Old Testament, God emphasizes that the greatness His power and name will be made known among the nations through His people. Nehemiah reported how the hand of his God had been favorable to him (Nehemiah 2:18). Considering the development of the Bear Valley Bible Institute in Denver and the work of Extension Training around the world, it does not take long to see how the hand of our God has been favorable to us.

Reading through each of the reports on a weekly basis is a continual reminder of the greatness of God’s name and power. We do not have to look very far to see God’s hand at work in the lives of hundreds and thousands of souls, and how favorable His hand has been to us. It is a privilege and honor to work along side of these men and women and to share in God’s mission.

I urge you to take time to consider how God has worked in your life and why. God blesses us, not to make our path convenient or comfortable. He blesses us so that He might be glorified. We are to lift up His name and share with others how the power of God has worked in our lives to bless us, spiritually and physically. As you read the reports this week, notice how God’s mission is being fulfilled in some incredible ways around the world.

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/

Donnie Bates’ latest report can be read by clicking here.

Extension Reports 

L.S.T. and Gospel Chariot in Chimala: The work in Chimala continues to involve a number of areas for outreach. Chad Wagner’s report shares the news.

Summer Classes Come To An End: Tony Johnson shares news about the end of the quarter and outreach in Tamale, Ghana.

Evangelism, Edification And Edifice: The church in Paraguay is growing and preparing for the first class of students to begin in March.

Let Them Eat...Snake: Among all the challenges of culture in different countries, it is interesting to see the culinary differences. 

Final Thoughts
I am thankful to always close with a word of gratitude. There is not a day goes by that I do not think about all of you and the sacrifices you make to help this work grow and enjoy success. God has blessed the work richly. The men and women who are laboring in the field are truly an example of the dedication and sacrifice to ensure the gospel is preached around the world. Your willingness to pray for, encourage, and help with the financial needs of the work also serve as example of how this partnership works. Thank you!

God bless
Bob

L.S.T. And Gospel Chariot In Chimala...

Wagner Family Tidbits
Greetings from Tanzania! Jambo! We pray that all of you are fine back in the states. We are all fine here in Tanzania. As you can imagine, life is busy here at the Chimala Mission every day. From working each day keeping all the work on track, cleaning up various areas, or getting to know everyone involved with the mission, we find that there is plenty each day to keep us busy!

We have received word that our shipping container has been approved FINALLY in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. However, the we are negotiating with the port authorities on payment amounts, etc. We are hoping to start moving our container out this week.

Rena and Laura have started cleaning out the old missionary school room. It has a lot of class material, books, construction paper, Sunday School material, etc. and all of it was covered in YEARS of dust and dirt!  They have been busy pulling out old boxes, trashing some and cleaning up others. Our plan right now is for Rena to homeschool the kids in that room. We have our home school material on the way through the mail and by airplane (Thanks Garry!) and we hope to start in September.

We went with the LST team on Saturday to visit God's Bridge and Ndulilo Falls. The drive was quite nice and falls were even better!

We make a food run each Thursday to Mbeya - a city about an hour away - where we buy most of our groceries. Since we have been here for some time now, Rena has been tracking the family's spending. We are spending quite a bit on food each week! We spend 400,000 to 500,000 TShillings each week on food.  That works out to be about $290/week. I recently bought some Kellogg's Frosties (Frosted Flakes) at the store. I paid 10,000/= for it. That is $6 for one box of cereal! Needless to say, we are learning how we can trim our budget just a bit! Cereal just might become a luxury item! 

Let's Start Talking
The Let's Start Talking team (LST) is here from Texas. They are Ron and Jan Haker and their granddaughter Lauren, Eddie Stinson, and Debbie Dow. The LST group teach conversational English using the Bible. They have so far had a huge success! They have been busy every day at the Herring Christian Secondary School doing lessons and developing relationships with the people of the area. Anna is with them and she is really enjoying being a part of their team. 

One of the techniques they use in LST is having a game night. They invite their readers to come on a Thursday night for games and social interaction. The purpose of all of this is to build relationships with non-Christian people and also to encourage the Christians. They had a game night this last Thursday night. Their goal for the night was 60 people. I counted 86 - not counting workers!

Evangelism Report from CBI
We received a report from the CBI faculty of their latest evangelism efforts on the mission.  

•  Lai Mkwama: on July 18 – 22 he has been having a series of bible classes with the Chosi “A”  Church of Christ, in his studies they have also been going to preach door to door.  Results: 5 Restorations and One baptism.
• Xavier Joseph and Peter Kamatula: On 13 July they went to Luduga Secondary school they had a seminar with 180 students from that school. They taught several lessons about the church of Christ and they answered many questions from those students. Results: Students who are already Christians their were very encouraged. The next day 14 July Xavier had to go to Igawa church of Christ where he visited with the church and they went house to house preaching. Results: 2 Restorations.  
• Frank Mwashikumbulu: On 13 – 14 July he went to Kapunga with one member, they had a seminar with the Church. And after the seminar they went door to door preaching. Results: The church was very encouraged.
• Boaz Kasiba: On July 13-14 he went to Matamba Nungu, he had some bible classes with the Christians and some non – Christians. Results: The church was encouraged and he had some promises of baptism.  
• Remmy Joseph: On July 15, he went to Chang’ombe with the following people: His (Remmy) wife, Don, Suz and Luka Lubange. They had a wonderful worship the church was very encouraged. And brother Remmy went in the evening, he had a bible class with two people and One was baptized.  
• Joshua Mwakyasima: On July 13-15, he went to Ihanda Mbozi, he had a seminar with the church there. Results: The church was encouraged.  
• Peter Kamatula: On 15 July he went to the Airport Church of Christ, he visited with the Church and they had a group bible study. Results: The church was encouraged.
• Lusekelo Lubange: On July 13 he went to Ntapisi and he visited with the church he had a seminar with that church and 29 members attended. Results: The church was very encouraged.  
• Peter Kamatula: On July 20-22 he went to Mbeya. He had been studying with a certain family he also visited two fallen Christians. And they repented for that. Results: 2 Restorations.  
• Ezekiel and Joseph Haonga: 14 July, they went to Vwawa visiting with the Church and talking about the WBS Campaigns and they concluded that the campaigns should be done at Wasa Mbozi, this is because the preacher in Vwawa will be leaving soon. 

GOSPEL CHARIOT UPDATE:
As you may know, the Gospel Chariot was scheduled to come to the Chimala Mission and work in various areas during this week. However, due to a mechanical issue, the truck is still in Dar es Salaam and must wait on replacement parts. Our campaigns have been rescheduled to begin at the end of August. 

HOW WE GOT THE BIBLE
I have started teaching a class at CBI called "How we got the Bible." I think that the class is going fairly well. We are discussing the origin, writing, and collection of the Bible as we have it today. 

Concluding Remarks
We are settling into the work here. Each day is a challenge. So many things to do we realize that not all of them will get done. We are simply putting out hand to the plow to do the Lord's work here in Tanzania.

Chad Wagner and family

To see Chad’s complete report with pictures, please click here.

You can also read Bill Stinson's latest report by clicking here.

Summer Classes Come To An End...

Greetings from Tamale! Here is the latest news from the Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies.

Today the students were let out of their morning class early in order to watch the television coverage of the funeral for Ghana’s president John Evans Atta Mills, who died unexpectedly two weeks ago. It is a reminder to all of us of the uncertainty of life, and the need to do the work God has given us while we have the opportunity. We are especially thankful that the change in leadership here has gone smoothly and peacefully, and that we continue to enjoy the freedom to preach and teach the gospel.  

School Update 
The summer term at the Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies is coming to a close, with final exams for Church History scheduled for August 14, and for Romans on August 17. Students have been focusing on some of the practical applications we can learn from both studies. In many areas that the students will go to work they will be facing the same issues we learn about in church history, people who want to make small changes to doctrine or worship. It is our prayer that the lessons learned in the classroom will help our students as they diligently seek to be workers who are rightly dividing the word of truth. 

Evangelism Update
During the break between terms Stephen Ashcraft and I will join two of the students for an evangelistic campaign in Sinkasse, Togo. The students, Joseph Molsak and Nichema Jacob, are from villages on the Ghana side of the border near Sinkasse, and belong to tribes that are closely related to those who live on the Togo side of the border. Since Togo is a French speaking country the campaign will also be relying on help from preachers in Togo, especially from a preacher named Fidele who is working in a recently planted congregation in the city of Dapaong. The goals for this campaign include bringing the church to Sinkasse with the planting of a congregation, and to encourage the cooperation between Christians in evangelistic work on both sides of the border. Please pray that this work will be fruitful for the kingdom.

In addition to planned campaigns during the break weeks between terms, there are a number of other evangelistic efforts being performed by members of the staff and the students of the Institute. One example is the work being done by student Timothy Niligrine, who travels every weekend to different villages in the Yendi area to preach the gospel for congregations that do not have full time preachers. Another example is seen in the weekly personal Bible studies being conducted by Jacob Yeboah, a member of the Institute’s staff. Yeboah is also involved with two other staff members, Director Joseph Baah and Dean of Students Adjei Mensah, in hosting a weekly call in radio show that provides gospel preaching and Bible answers. It is our prayer that these types of works will continue to grow in the Northern Region of Ghana. 

Building Update
Progress continues to be made on the new classrooms and dormitories for the Institute. During the past weeks the building has been plastered, concrete floors laid, and window and door frames installed. There is a great deal of work still necessary before students and staff can think about moving in, but we can now see the end in sight concerning this project, which has been in progress since 2008.

In addition to the new building we have also set aside land for vocational training in farming techniques and raising food animals. This effort has a two-fold purpose, to help provide food for the students while they are at the school while also providing the students with skills to help take care of themselves and their families once they begin preaching in villages that cannot provide full time support. We are looking forward to being able to start on this phase of development in the coming weeks. 

Closing Thoughts
In closing we continue to thank all of those who are supporting the Institute through your prayers and with your financial support. You are a blessing to us and to the church in Northern Ghana and the surrounding countries. 

In His service,

Tony Johnson
Coordinator

Evangelism, Edification, and Edifice...

Recent congregational developments and activities 
Former mission team members, Chris and Vickie Fry, brought a group down from Dyersburg, TN, to assist the church here from July 9-18. They put on a VBS at the church building, in local parks, in some of the orphanages, and in a neighborhood where there were lots of children. Vickie also lead a Ladies' Day event with lessons from the book “Lies Women Believe.” They all worked really hard and they brought a lot of encouragement to the congregation while spreading the word about Jesus.

A Special Committee was formed this month from among the men of the congregation to organize and develop a special program for our members in the form of a Bible Institute. The men recognize that Paraguay needs Paraguayan preachers! So, the church is trying to develop a means for training men to be able sow the seeds of the Gospel to the lost in Paraguay. The committee meets twice a week with the goal of organizing everything necessary for starting in March of 2013.

In addition, Pedro Vera and myself traveled to Guatemala City, Guatemala to visit “ITL,” the Institute of Theology of Latinamerica. We went there in order to learn more about how a full/time Bible school works. Our brethren Hawatthia Jones and Byron Benitez were very hospitable and helped us a lot in understanding the necessities of operating a school. ITL is a very sound and well-run institue.

Recent conversions / identifications / restorations
Baptized! – Silvina Giménez was baptized July 17th for the remission of her sins! She came to the church through our “Study English Using the Bible” program and from there proceeded to study “Searching for Truth.” She also began attending many of the youth activities and has been very involved in the church. She came to realize the state of her soul and decided to be reconciled to our Lord. Praise Him!

Contacts / Bible studies:
English Campaign Contacts – Our summer interns, Hannah Phillips and Rhonda Taylor, have completed the initial series of studies with their students in our recent “Learn English by Using the Bible” campaign. Several of these studies have progressed to “Searching for Truth” Bible study and the contacts have been handed over to the local missionaries. Please pray for these contacts that perhaps they will come to know the Lord and His gift of salvation. 

Natalia Osorio and Ruthy Pacua - have begun a new convert Bible study in order to help them grow in the faith. We are using a new series of studies that focuses on the responsibilities of a “new babe in Christ.” 

Evangelistic efforts:
“Kari,” “Pati,” “Romi,” and “Judy.” What do these names have in common besides just rhyming? They are all friends and family members of our brethren in the church which have been brought to us as Bible study contacts. Each one of these is now engaged in various Bible studies that we pray will lead to conversions. We are especially excited that our brethren are reaching out to their loved ones in order to try to lead them to the Savior!

Steps toward mission goals
Investigating other Bible schools in order to learn how to have one in Paraguay was a big step toward our goal of developing a means for training our Paraguayan brethren to be evangelists.

Additional activities:
We have been studying the “Beatitudes” on Sunday mornings with the congregation, lead by our brother, Ike Yegros. He will be finishing this month and then we will be starting a series of lessons on Family, Marriage, and the Home. On Wednesday nights we will be starting a series of lessons called “Identifying Truth” where about we will study how denominational doctrines compare to the Bible. 

Josh Barber flew down to Paraguay to see his girlfriend (and our current mission intern), Hannah Phillips, in order to buy her some flowers and propose to her! He surprised her in a restaurant and then “popped the question.” When she said “yes” the whole restaurant staff applauded! Congrats!

Plans for near future 
Enoch Rinks (former member of the Paraguayan mission team) is bringing a group down from Virginia in late July through August. More on that in the next newsletter!

A SPECIAL THANK YOU!
We would like to extend a special “THANK YOU” to Andy Baker and our brethren at Dripping Springs church of Christ. Andy put together several English devotional songbooks for us and then donated them to the mission team. Dripping Springs paid for the shipping costs to get them to Chris Fry, who then carried them down to Paraguay for us. We will be using the songbooks for when we, the American missionaries get together for our regular English devotionals, or when we have American groups come down. Thank you again brethren, we really appreciate your kindness!

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT AND ACTIVITIES
Personal HIGHLIGHT(s) of the Month: We had a visit from a mission group from Tennessee, a new sister in Christ obeyed the Gospel, several new Bible study contacts, and a marriage proposal!

Personal study:
Lately, I have been focusing a lot on Catholicism and especially on Mariology. Several questions have come up recently about Mary worship so I hope to help our brethren learn how to respond to this false teaching. 

I am currently reading / have read: 

“Roman Catholicism” by Loraine Boettner 

“Jesus Christ: The Hope of the Home” by Robert R. Taylor 

I have finished writing the first two major sections for the Spanish fundamentals study guide that I have titled, “The First Principles of the Oracles of God.” We are now using it in a current Bible study to see how well the format works.

Three lovely, faithful Christian sisters: Ursula, Estella, and Andrea
Although we have certainly grown leaps and bounds in our Spanish skills, we were still anxious to get back to studying Spanish to “shake off the rust” from being back in the states recently on furlough. This learning Spanish project is a long process!

Visitation:
Estella Curcio - we always love to have the opportunity to get to visit our sweet sister Estella, who lives in Caacupé and rides a bus TWO HOURS to get to the Sunday am worship assembly! She has been a faithful disciple for more than 25 years.
Tuesday Night Study Group - every month we try to host our Tuesday night Bible study group in our home. The group usually meets in the home of Delci Enciso and has been growing. There have been several great efforts made in reaching out to neighbors and family. 

Area Orphanages 
While the Dyersburg mission group was here, we had the opportunity to visit a couple of the area orphan homes. It is always nice to share with these children, who are starving for attention and affection. We have developed some really good relationships with the directors of the homes, as well as, these precious children.

Family activities:
We finally got to go to the Asuncion Expo together! I am usually traveling this time of year so I have missed it the past two years. Andrea and I enjoyed a nice afternoon of just strolling through the park seeing all the sights.

Plans for the near future:
We have another mission group coming down from the USA that will be working with the church in late July and August. 

Our team retreat and banquet will be coming up soon! 

The service organization that Andrea belongs to, called the “Las Amigas Club” held their recent “4th of July” luncheon at the home of one of its members. The newspapers took this photo and others to recognize the event.

Our Mission Team Goals for 2012:
Evangelism: Each member of the team has developed and committed to some personal evangelism goals. Collectively, we are praying that we will generate more than 120 new contacts and conduct more than 750 Bible studies. These studies will include both evangelistic and member studies. We also plan to use public advertising, special events, and seminars to generate contacts. We also pray that we will continually encourage and develop a more evangelistic spirit within the congregation.

Edification: The team is working to develop leadership within the congregation through the mentoring process, special workshops, and by utilizing studies that focus on servant leadership. We are also developing ideas and working on logistics for the possibility of having a specialized “Bible school” in Asuncion, Paraguay.

Edifice: (Building Construction): We pray that we will complete construction of phase 1 of the building this year. All paperwork has been acquired and we are requesting estimates to begin construction.

Troy and Andrea Spradlin

To see the full report with pictures, please click here.

Let Them Eat...Snake!

Dear Co-Workers, 

QUOTE OF THE WEEK:  "Enjoy the little things.  One day you may look back and realize...they were the BIG things." Author unknown, but possibly Barbara Johnson.

AFTER A TOTAL OF 48 BIBLE STUDIES AND 9 BAPTISMS (two weeks work in TZ) the Storks family (Todd, Susan, Wesley and Haley) and friend, Brian Simon, left Friday to return to the U.S. We are very grateful to them for the time, effort and expense they put forth. In fact, we learned they had taken out a loan to finance their way to Tanzania (they were unable to secure enough funds from congregations). While we certainly admired their dedication and desire, at the same time it saddened us.

TWO-STEPPING. While going up some steps, Elijah was "taking two steps at a time" and commented, "This is the way Muslims do it."  Obviously, he had probably seen a little boy dressed in his white Muslim tunic-type dress doing this and thought that every Muslim walked up stairs that way. This innocent remark reminds us to consider each person individually and not "throw a blanket" over a whole group of people of a certain race or nationality when only one person acts a certain way (whether positively or negatively).   

TOO OLD? Trina’s translator, Paulina, and her were discussing medical care in TZ and she brought up the terrible car accident she was involved in about 15 years ago (she suffered a crushed hip and a very serious injury to her arm). An older woman was also involved and like Paulina, also suffered a crushed hip. Due to the woman's age (about 70) the doctors would not repair or do surgery on her hip. Paulina said they simply let her lay there and she returned to her home crippled for the rest of her life.

TOO YOUNG? Elly's wife, Neema, told us of being in a room where another woman gave birth prematurely (at about 6 -7 months gestation). The doctor immediately threw the living child into the garbage can full of medical rubbish (syringes, etc) saying, "No way that child will survive." While the possibility was great that the doctor was right (this was about 23 years ago in Tanzania), is that the way a helpless newborn baby should be treated?

"LET THEM EAT.....SNAKE!" Teresia related that, when she was 5 years old, her grandmother worked for some white people (wazungu) who, while out in the bush and had no other meat, cooked and ate a snake. Her grandmother always warned Teresia saying, "Don't eat the meat!" if she worked for or visited with white people. This past week, a snake was found near our porch and the women were in the process of deciding how to kill it (our guard was gone at the time). Jokingly, one of the girls, turned to Teresia and "suggested' we have it for lunch! In order to kill it, our neighbor, Ruth, and Teresia, both ran in the house to get a bag of salt to throw on the snake (hiding under a large flat rock). Since we had never heard of "killing a snake by the salt method", we looked it up later via the internet and learned that throwing salt on a snake is only an "old wives' tale" and has no effect. We also learned that Ruth is a champion rock thrower and we were quite amused that this quiet, humble, small-statured lady, could be so VICIOUS when it came to "snake-killing." Needless to say, we stepped out of her line of fire!

"SAY WHAT?" Speaking of Teresia (of whom you read about frequently), she told of a translator at the Pentecostal denomination (where she previously attended). A white foreigner was preaching and the translator didn't know English well but was doing his best to translate it into KiSwahili. "Jesus came with the Holy Spirit" was translated "Jesus came with Sprite in the car."  "Jesus was the Messiah" was translated "Jesus was a Maasai (a famous tribe in East Africa).” "Today is Sunday" was translated "Today is the day of the Sun."    

DID YOU LOOK....for the "invisible" man standing beside the elephant or did you realize that Jimmy accidentally left Trina’s note to him (concerning a picture of an elephant) in the report when he sent it last week?

NO REASON TO COMPLAIN after we saw a grown man "walking" with his knees bent up almost touching his chin, and his hips almost touching the road, breathing in all the dust from the cars. No, we had no reason to complain about the traffic that day or anything else.

A SPECIAL THANK-YOU is extended towards Exel Aultman, Stephanie Stafford's mother who lives with Stephanie and Cy here in Kisongo, Tanzania. At 80 years of age, she is still a good seamstress and has done quite a bit of alterations/repair on some of our clothing in the past few weeks. Thank you, Granny Aultman!     

CLEMENT MURUNGU is presently an ACSOP master's student and is in our "spotlight" today. He is a widower with seven children (three have obeyed the Gospel) and his home church is Marakta Church of Christ in Katesh. Clement has been a Christian for more than 10 years, having been converted by Francis Wechesa (the first director of the Arusha Bible School and ACSOP). Fluent in four languages, Clement found out about the ACSOP through his home congregation and says that the best thing he learned there concerned Christian Leadership. His motivation in becoming a preacher was simply the Great Commission of Jesus (Matt. 28:19-20). Clement, an enthusiastic song-leader, is a good student academically and of good character.

FAMILY NEWS: Most of us are doing fine, however, four of us are on medicine due to having an amoeba. One can get an amoeba by drinking contaminated water or eating contaminated food.  We drink and cook only with bottled water, clean our vegetables and fruit with bleach and water, put bleach in our rinse water (for dishes) and add bleach in our water tank from which water runs into the house. To know more about amoeba's, Google the subject (warning: content may not be suitable for those with a "weak" stomach). We think we need a special filter for the water coming into the house through the faucets (the water we shower in, wash our hands with, etc).

THINGS WE STILL FIND HUMOROUS: men carrying items or a Bible in a Barbie or Tinkerbell gift bag or sporting a shirt that says "Baby on Board." Tanzanian men wear bright pink shirts and purple pants and think nothing of it. Many wear t-shirts donated but do not know the meaning of the English writing on them. Once a young teenager was wearing a t-shirt with the words "Number 1 Grand-Dad!" To us, the outfit that "takes the cake" is the one of many Maasai men here. Seeing a very rugged, tall, muscular man, wearing his traditional robe, with a sword strapped to his side while holding a long stick over his shoulders and wearing a pair of LADIES WHITE SANDALS is funny to us! Somehow the shoes ruin the whole "tough-guy" image! Many Maasai out in the bush wear the sandals made from old tires. But we have seen many in Arusha (maybe theirs is a special group) wearing the ladies' sandals with the slight heel. Tanzanians find many "funny" things about us foreigners (especially tourists) and enjoy a good laugh also (just ask Elly Martin about some past & present missionaries and visitors. He's got some stories to tell)!

NORMAL IS RELATIVE. It struck me the other day that much of the frustration Americans  experience in TZ traffic is due to what we perceive as "normal" or what we grew up with. For Tanzanians, dodging objects in traffic (motorcycles, bicycles, wooden carts, dogs, people, mini-van buses who stop with no warning, stalled vehicles, etc) is NORMAL. We are used to driving faster and the road being for motorized vehicles only. "Normal" to us is order, boundaries and rules being respected and enforced. We see "normal" as vehicles having the "right of way" for the most part. Motorcycles here do not act as a vehicle but are driven on the sides of the roads and up and down the middle of a two-way street (riding on the white dotted line) between traffic. They dodge in and out of cars and come up beside cars with no warning. Does this explain why it took Trina three and a half years to work up the courage to drive in TZ?

The new quarter begins tomorrow at the ACSOP. Jimmy will be teaching Jeremiah and Lamentations. Sean Hochdorf will be teaching Minor Prophets I. Cy Stafford will be teaching Personal Evangelism II. And, Emmanuel Peter will teach the book of Revelation.   

Today is Jimmy's 46th birthday! We feel blessed to have him as the husband and father of this family. Thank YOU for supporting our family in this mission field! 

In His Service, 
Jimmy, Trina and the kids

A New Class In Denver...

A new class of 13 students have started their preparation to preach the gospel. Monday morning classes officially start and, as I say often, this is a wonderful group of men. These men have come from nearly one coast to the other. They come from the North and South. Some come with families and others are single. We have young and old who are here to better their understanding of God’s word and how they can better serve in His kingdom.

I would never try to place one class of students above any other as far as ability or effectiveness. It is a blessing to see their willingness to present themselves as a tool in the hands of the Almighty God who will take their unique abilities and use them to His glory. I love seeing how God will develop their lives and mold them into the instrument He needs them to be and send them forth to places that will change lives eternally.

I am always encouraged by the growth of the men who come through the program and I love hearing about the work they do once they enter into the ministry. It is also exciting to see the interest grow in the Extension program. Few students coming into the program are aware of the magnitude of the work so many wonderful brethren are involved in around the world. I pray they will grow to have some level of involvement in the development of the work overall.

The reports from various locations indicate there are also classes beginning in several schools. With the beginning of classes, more students are preparing for the spiritual battle for the souls who are lost in a world of darkness. I ask you to be praying with me for all these men, their preparation, and the work they are entering into for the Lord.

I do have an important request. We are desperately needing to raise $2,180 for the work in Chandigarh, India. The North India Bible College has been struggling for years to have the needed support. The struggle became even more complicated as the cost for housing the school has increased by nearly $200 a month. If you can help toward this need, please contact me at bturner@bvbid.org or call me at 303-986-5800. Thank you for your consideration.

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/

Gary Fallis’ report shares news from the past month. To see the full report, click here.

Howell Ferguson’s latest report brings news of changes for his ministry. Read more by clicking here.

Josh Austin is also going to be making changes in his ministry work. Read more from his report by clicking here.

Extension Reports 

A New Class Of Students At BVBIU: As classes begin in Gorlovka, Ukraine, a new class of students are preparing themselves for ministry in the Lord’s kingdom.

The Church Grows In Cambodia: Congregations started by Christians in and around the city of Siem Reap are growing spiritually and numerically.

A Great Way To End The Report: As the Gee family was writing the last paragraph of the report, a call came in about someone wanting to be baptized. Read to find out who! 

Final Thoughts
As you can see, the work continues to be exciting and encouraging. It is so humbling to consider the work being done by so many around the world. The conditions they endure and their willingness to serve tirelessly is an example to us all. They are able to do their work because of the encouragement, prayers and financial support of so many of you. Thank you for your involvement in the work of training men to preach; in Denver and the Extension Program. We need you.

God bless
Bob

Ministry Change For Josh Austin...

Dearest brethren, 

It has been quite a month.  Let me begin with this news:  we have decided to move back to Arizona to work with the Native American population!  If the Lord wills, in June of 2013 we would like to plant a church on the Pima Reservation in the Phoenix metro area.  There are over 100,000+ natives living in Phoenix with only a few handful of Christians.  Over 60% of the Natives who live in Phoenix are Navajo, which is the group of people we have been working with since 2002.  

We will continue to work with Bear Valley in training preachers in Cameroon at least until June of 2013.  Over the next 10 months we are going to be living in Morenci, AZ where my parents live.  They have graciously agreed to allow me to preach there until we make the move to Phoenix.  This move to Morenci will be happening August 15^th.  By moving now instead of in June, it will get us closer to Phoenix to do the research to get ready for this new work, it will also get us closer to my parents and it will get us back on our feet financially.  

We are planning a trip in September to start visiting congregations to try to raise new support.  We have not been on full support since we arrived in Denver.  If I have not spoken with you yet, we would love to come and share with you the much needed work or reaching the Natives.  If you are able to meet with us, or know of someone who might be interested in meeting with us, please let us know.

Now on to the news from July:

The first week consisted mostly of family time.  After being gone a month I tried to spend some good time with the family.  The second week of July is when we made the decision to move, so since that time we have been taking the steps to move.  This includes: having yard sales, packing, “craigslisting,” and planning.  

The new convert that we have been working with, Travis, is continuing to make some progress.  There are obvious struggles being a new Christian, but we have had several good studies over the month.  I have also had a couple of Bible studies with Michael.  He is my neighbor who is about 19 yrs old.  He is really showing some promise.  

I have also been preaching at the nursing home this month and trying to get someone to fill my spot to preach to these precious souls every week.  We are praying someone to step up.  

This month I have been doing a part time job of selling Cutco knives to try and make some extra money.  I have been seeing people who own them already and seeing people who have never heard of them.  I am grateful for their time and helping me out.  

We took the kids to another VBS this month.  Living in a big city gives you the opportunity to take the kids to multiple VBS’s throughout the summer.  It has been great.  We also held Alayna and Josiah’s Birthday party this month.  It was a lot of fun.  We had about 35 people come to share in the celebration.  There was a lot of fun, food and fellowship.  

As far as the work in Cameroon, they are doing great.  They held their entrance exams this month to get ready for the new class in January.  We are making plans for the graduation in December and also the teachers getting ready to go over in September to teach Denominational Doctrines and Hebrews.

We continue to thank all of you for your continued interest in our family and the work we try to do for the Lord.  We have been so blessed here at Bear Valley and are ready to get back in the mission field.  We miss the work, and I know that I have been uniquely blessed to work with this group of precious souls.  If you would like to know more or talk with us in more detail, please give us a call. 

In His service, 
Austin Family

To view Josh's report with pictures, click here.

A New Class Of Students At BVBIU...

Hello dear brothers, families and churches. 

Ukraine is really a big country in the heart of Europe. It's a country where economic development is slow, but prices on utilities, clothes and food are continually getting higher. Ukraine is willing to become a part of Europe. The quality of service is still Soviet-like, but the prices are European-like. Church of Christ in Ukraine is in a great need of worthy leaders and wise administration. No one is surprised now by seeing a foreigner in our country, and it differs from how it was 20 years ago. People don't come to seminars after announcements "Guest from the US or practice your English using Bible, etc." Ukrainian church needs well-prepared teachers, preachers and elders. Our institute is taking care of providing churches with prepared ministers who are ready to preach the truth and be a good example of righteous life. 

In July I had an opportunity to preach and visit churches in different parts of Ukraine. First two Sundays I preached in the Eastern part of Ukraine: Illovaysk and Gorlovka, and then my wife and I traveled to the Western part of Ukraine. When looking at the map of Ukraine to see where the Churches of Christ are, it's easy to notice that 85% of churches are situated in the Eastern part of Ukraine (the border between the Eastern and the Western parts is the river Dnepr), other 15% are situated in the Western part accordingly. In Western Ukraine we have visited two congregations in Chernovtsy and Ternopol, and we also had a meeting with a preacher of another congregation in Ivano-Frankovsk. It was an interesting trip. I had an opportunity to visit with preachers and members of those congregations and to preach.  I also was able to find two new students who will start studying this fall.  Western Ukraine is a huge region; it's a smaller part of our country, and it is in a need of our prayers and people who will be active in evangelizing. Some cities (like Lviv, Uzhhorod, Lutsk) with population over 500,000 people do not have churches of Christ at all. In future, if it's possible, it would be wise to open another Bear Valley extension school in this part of country. 

Right now we have 9 new students who are ready to start studying on September 3. God blesses us with people who are willing to commit their lives to serve people and the Lord. 

In August we plan to help Central Church of Christ in Gorlovka with VBS. We also have to find an apartment to house new students, get the classrooms ready and to visit some churches of Christ if possible. 

Apostle Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 9.2: "For I know your eagerness to help... and your enthusiasm has stirred most of them to action." Because of your help, we continue training ministers for God's Church. In future, church in Ukraine will become independent, and it won't survive without experienced and sound teachers. While preparing preachers now, we build a strong foundation for future generations. 

I want to thank you for spiritual and financial support of my family and ministry at the BVBIU. I know that many members of the churches never saw me in person, but continue to be active participants in supporting this work. We need you, and having new students, we need additional finances. I trust the Lord and you. If you are willing to know more about Institute's financial situation, contact Howell Ferguson. 

God's blessings to you.

Your brother and co-worker for the Lord's cause,
Dennis Sopelnik

To see Dennis’ report with pictures, please click here.

The Church Grows In Cambodia...

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

Through the sponsoring of our brethren from various congregations, such as love, financially, encouragement, etc. we as the church of Christ in Siem Reap have been growing to some points.  

Siem Reap Church Of Christ
On August 15, 2006 the church of Christ in Siem Reap was established by me ( Kimchann Lork), and during that time we had just two people worship, which was me and a brother name Ret. After a few months we had about 20 people who were converted into Christ by baptism and the numbers continue to grow more, Gal. 3:26-27. Now the church that meets at the Siem Reap Church Of Christ every Lord's day is from 35- 50. We had three more baptisms last week.   

Leang Dai Church Of Christ
In the year 2008 we started another congregation called Leang Dai Church Of Christ where now our brothers Sokchea Lork and Ravy San preach. There are around 20 to 30 members that attend every Lord's day. Last week they baptized four more people into Christ's church.  

Takam Church Of Christ
In the year 2010 we started another congregation called Takam Church Of Christ that now has our brothers Cheuy Cheun and Vanra Ret. There are about 40 to 50 people that attend on the Lord's day.  

Svay Reing Church Of Christ
In the same year 2010 we also had our brothers Sophal Lout and Saran Torn, also a sister, Ussa Lout, who graduated from our school and went back to their hometown to start the Svay Rieng church of Christ among their own family. Now they have about 10 to 15 who meet. 

Future villages to start up the church (Trapang Svay, Sombur, Kompong Kleang, and Chreav)
We have been teaching and preaching for a month and half to two more new villages called Trapang Svay and Sombur villages. The result is we have had one man baptized by our brother Darat Run last week at Sombur village. Keep praying for this village that we will be able to start a new congregation in this village soon. Also, at Trapang Svay village we are still preaching hard so that sooner or later we will have another congregation in this village too. 

Brother Phanat Ouch brought two of our young men to evangelize at a new village called Kompong Kleang, a place where the people survive along the lake. Some people call it the floating village too. We ask you to keep praying also for this new village that we plan to place our two young men, Sopheap Chort and Hokly Chourn, to work and start up a congregation in that area. 

We also plan to place two of our young men, Sam Sorn and Reaksa Thate, at another village called Chreav, to set up a farm in order to start a congregation in that area too.  

Your prayers, thoughts and support are very important for our work of evangelism for Christ in Cambodia. Please keep us in your prayers as we all labor for Him, Romans8:28-30. 

May our God bless you all.
Kimchann Lork (local Preacher)

A Great Way To End The Report...

Dear Family, Friends and Supporters: 

QUOTE OF THE WEEK:  "Because we invest most of our days working in exchange for money, there is a very real sense in which our money represents us. Therefore how we use it expresses who we are, what our priorities are and what's in our hearts." --Donald S. Whitney 

The above quote is from the writer of the book, "Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life" recently used in the class, "The Spiritual Development of the Preacher." We believe the quote is a true statement and it really "packs a punch" (making us examine more closely how we spend our money).  

The Storks and their friend, Brian Simon, have "kept the dust flying" (instead of keeping the pavement hot) with their studies and all their activity. We are almost afraid to mention all the names of people baptized for fear of leaving someone out. However, we will try: Basilika and Esther (mother and daughter with whom Steven Akin had previously studied with and Todd Storks continued), Alex and wife Joyce, Elias and possibly his wife, Naomi...all who live right here in our neighborhood. And also Mary, whom they met on the side of the road and asked her if she wanted to study. Susan and Haley Storks and Caitlyn Middleton also kept busy painting cardboard for VBS with Anita Hochdorf. When asked what was the weirdest thing she had seen in Tanzania, Susan replied, "A goat on a motorcycle...wedged between two people." That would have been a good picture! We've witnessed goats being crammed into the back of a dala-dala (mini-van) but not on a motorcycle. On a very sad note, we heard that while some of the Storks were conducting a Bible study that a small child died in the house (not sure why, but possibly from dehydation due to malaria or amoeba). As far as we know, Caitlyn is still busy with Bible studies and Lindsey and Abigail are conducting two at this writing. 

Wesley Storks, son of Todd and Susan taught Bible class at Kisongo on Thursday. This young man has been to several preacher camps under the direction of Roger Shepherd. He had a very good lesson and delivered it extremely well. We know his mom and dad are very proud of him. 

Ahimidiwe (preacher at Kisongo) has organized a visitation program to encourage the new converts (and one restored, a total of 14 people). Due to the low attendance for mid-week Bible study the past few weeks, Ahimidiwe met with us in order to keep us accountable for the person assigned to us. Speaking of Ahimidiwe, he will be traveling for three weeks to the East African Gospel Meeting, a youth camp in Ahono, Kenya and another campaign. Ahimidiwe is a product of the ACSOP and a real asset to the church in Tanzania, the preaching school and to the Kisongo Bible School. Pray for his safety, as well as Charles Heberth, Cy Stafford, Sean Hochdorf and Elly Martin as they also travel to some of the events, please. 

Stuart counted 107 in attendance at Kisongo, where Emmanuel (Master's Student) preached a great lesson on showing love (in the church and in our homes). We were surprised that as a young, single man he had such insight. Abigail was unable to actually teach the children's class because her translator (Happiness) stayed home with her sick little brother. So Abigail sang songs with the children and let them color. The ladies class studied Genesis 28, discussing topics such as the wisdom of marrying within the "spiritual family" (Issac charged Jacob that he should not marry "from the daughters of Canaan" but should go "to house of Bethuel your mother's father" for a wife. He wanted Jacob to marry within their physical family.) Also discussed was the topic of "feelings' and how sometimes, like Esau, we make poor choices when hurt or angry (vs. 6-9). 

ACSOP news: Due to Roger Shepherd's heart problems, he will not be traveling to Tanzania.  Both classes he was scheduled for ("Church Planting and Growth" and "Cross-cultural Evangelism) have been assigned as independent study courses. Please pray for Roger and the doctors that attend to him.

TWO WIVES, TWENTY-FIVE CHILDREN, ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTEEN GRANDCHILDREN AND THIRTY-FIVE GREAT GRANDCHILDREN...comprised the family of the recently deceased father of Kisongo church member, Abbas (and you thought our family was large). Crowds of people attended and many were obviously well-off due to the number of vehicles. Chris Akin will never forget the question Mr. Abbas asked him the very last session of the Marriage Seminar. After eight sessions of all kinds of questions, this one "took the cake" so to speak. Chris put his hands up, shook his head and replied, "I'm finished" and sat down. It was one of those situations where it was very funny... but it wasn't. We're glad that the Akins plan to come over for several more summers and work here (regardless of the strange questions asked). 

The children gave out tracts two days this week, in our neighborhood (two young men stood there for about 5 minutes reading them) and at the market (where several people were asking for them). The receptivity of the TZ people here reminds me of the familiar story of the two shoe salesmen who went to Africa. One returns with the sad story that it's hopeless because no one wears shoes while the other one sees a marvelous opportunity. Folks, I'm here to tell you that in terms of the Gospel, there is GREAT opportunity! 

9/ll...At the orthodontist's office, Abigail was given a choice of three dates for the September appointment. Not thinking about the specific date, she chose Tuesday (the 11th). Our (very nice) Muslim orthodontist (from India) replied, "do you think you will remember or shall I write it down?" When Abigail smiled and said to just write it down, he said, "O.K. just don't bring a bomb." 

MORE VALUABLE THAN HUMANS? An ACSOP student commented that if you kill an elephant in Tanzania (even if aggressive toward you or your life is in danger) without a permit the fine is six million shillings (about $3800). However, if an elephant kills a person, the government pays the deceased's family 200,000 shillings (about $125) which would not even pay for the person's burial. Something to think about and strange that true stories like this hardly phase us anymore because such are becoming more common (remember the man put in jail because he killed a large rodent in his garden?) JIMMY: CAN YOU FIND picture of man standing beside elephant or just elephant? 

FAMILY NEWS: Saturday, we visited the Comprehensive Community Based Rehabilitation center in Moshi (about a 1.5 hour drive). We came to check it out because we have an appointment in September for Matthew. For five days, he will be assessed by specialists of all kinds, given special therapy and we will be told what he needs to reach his potential. They provide wheelchairs and all kinds of quality equipment for the disabled. We've read great reports about this place. Jimmy, Abigail, Matthew and his therapist (Lucy) will stay in Moshi while the therapy goes on that week.

Lindsey just called and said Nice wants to be baptized into Christ! What a grand way to end this report! As always, we appreciate all of you and your dedication to the work here in Tanzania, East Africa! Thank you for your prayers that help make this work so successful!  

In Christian Love, 
The Jimmy Gee family

Home At Last...

I arrived home late last night from several weeks of traveling to share the news about the Extension Program with several individuals and congregations. Sheryl remains with our daughter and son-in-law until the birth of our next grandson, Titus. You may recall a few months ago I shared news of possible birth defects with Titus and asked you to be praying for him. You will also remember how great our God was in answering our prayers. Titus is healthy, there are no problems and he is due to arrive later this week. As you can imagine, Sheryl wants to be there when this young man enters the world. So she will be joining me in Denver in a few weeks.

We are preparing for the next class of students at the Bear Valley Bible Institute in Denver. A number of men are ready to begin classes next Monday morning in their journey to prepare themselves for the greatest work on earth as proclaimers of God’s word. The beginning of a new school year is always an exciting time and the staff is looking forward to how we can equip these men for the ways God will use them to His glory.

We would ask you to be praying for these men as they begin their journey, but also for the other students around the world who are doing the same in the Extension Program. In the next few months we will be partnering with three new locations in the Extension Program. Classes will soon begin in Kisumu, Kenya; Ibadan, Nigeria; and Monrovia, Liberia. Each of these locations have been mentioned before and the brethren involved in these areas are doing a great work. We are privileged to be working with them to further the kingdom of our God.

We have also shared news about partnering with the Sacramento Avenue congregation in Asunción, Paraguay. This school will begin in March 2013. We will have more to share about its beginning in the months ahead. Partnering with these locations will increase the number of extension schools to 18. We are thankful for God’s blessing in the work at Bear Valley and we are privileged to share in the work of others around the world. Please pray for unity and growth as we move ahead in training wonderful Christian brethren to be greater servants of the Lord.

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/

Extension Reports 

Preparing For A New Class: The Cameroon Bible Institute of Wotutu is preparing for a new class of students to begin the first of the year as new souls are added to the Kingdom.

Tony Johnson Arrives In Tamale: The newest addition to the work of the Tamale Bible Institute in Ghana, Tony Johnson, has arrived and started teaching.

Busy In Uganda: As short courses end in Uganda, teachers are preparing for the long courses to begin. As well, the church is growing and building.

Wealth Of Great News In Cambodia: As the school prepares to graduate 8 students, the growth of the church in Siem Reap is encouraging.

Honduras Campaigns Bear Fruit: The number of people who have come to Christ is growing as the campaigns in Honduras is converting souls.

Look At What Is Happening In Arusha: The evangelistic efforts of even the young people in Tanzania are changing lives. This is a great report on the work. 

Final Thoughts
Thank you for your prayers as we traveled the last six weeks. It is good to be home and get ready to be in the classroom again. We ask for your prayers for all the schools around the world where the work continues to grow. It is a privilege to share in the Kingdom work with these wonderful men and women of God. It is also a privilege to share in this work with you. I am grateful for the opportunities God has given and I pray we will be united in our efforts to glorify our God who makes all things possible.

God bless
Bob

Look At What Is Happening In Arusha...

Dear Co-Workers:

QUOTE OF THE WEEK: "Much of what we see depends on what we are looking for." Phil Calloway

Well, folks, there is so much to write about this week! The greatest news of all is that after about 10 studies, Rehema (early 20's) decided to be baptized into Christ last Sunday evening! The issue holding her back for a couple of weeks was the "sinner's prayer." Lindsey (if we do say so) used such good logic and handled the Scripture so well in her study with Rehema (the sister of Teresia). Rehema's mom said she would like to attend services next Sunday. If you remember, Teresia (Rehema's sister) suffered some slight persecution from the Pentecostal denomination when she became a N.T. Christian, obeying the words of Christ and not the teaching of men. We’re just wondering how they will react now.

Nice, Teresia's friend, and also a member of the same Pentecostal congregation, sat in on two studies that Lindsey conducted with Rehema and wanted to be baptized the same day as Rehema. However, after some questions Nice decided she needed more study and Lindsey has studied twice with her since. Beth Akin, Jimmy's sister, actually began the studies, laying the foundation with Nice while she was here (had about 4 studies with her).  

While Abigail was studying with Grace last Sunday evening, her father (who refused to let her be baptized several months ago but agreed that she could continue studying) brought out an English Bible in hopes that she could learn English at the same time she is learning God's Word.

It is very encouraging to simply walk around our neighborhood and see many houses where Tanzanian Christians live because many neighbors have been converted over the last few years. As we walk out of my gate turning to the right, we pass the mud home of Ruth and David.  Across the road is Peter and Teresia.  If we keep walking, we'll cross over another road and up towards the left is the orange-painted home of Isaiah and Usta, and then next-door is Lembris and Rosemary. On the same property is David and Mama Stevin, and across another road is Job and Joyce. Not too far away (down the hill) is Lucy, and then continuing straight ahead will lead you to Paulina and Elibariki's.  Near the highway is a bar called "Tembo Club" and Teresia and Rehema live up on the hill. Going back up the road and to the left is Deo and Janet, Abbas and wife, daughter-in-law Lydia, and on around the neighborhood, near to the Mosquito Net factory is Monica and family, Loshea and Neema, and Thomas and Jane. Other members of "Kanisa La Kristo" (Kisongo Church of Christ) live in Kisongo town and Ngaramtoni ya Chini. 

In last weeks' report, we spoke of our many trips to the dentist office in the past several weeks. Our wonderful dentist, of the Catholic faith, has allowed me to place copies of Reason & Revelation and the Discovery magazine for children (produced by Apologetics Press) in her waiting room.  

Todd Storks (along with his wife Susan, daughter Haley, son Wesley and friend, Brian) arrived in TZ very early Saturday morning. The Storks are state-side missionaries in Georgia. After only 3 hours of sleep, Susan and Haley taught/attended a "Teacher's Seminar" at Kwa Mrombo while the guys also did some evangelism. We are so happy they are here and will keep you posted on their activities!

INTERESTING: Statistics show that 5% of the preachers are proclaiming the Gospel to 95% of the population and 95% of preachers are preaching to 5% of the world's population (the U.S.). Something seems unbalanced in that equation. 

SWAHILI LANGUAGE: The Swahili word "lala" means "sleep." It is interesting that we have the English phrase "lala land." As we all know, many words from different languages found their way into the English language due to the immigrants who chose America as their new home (such as the French word, "bouquet"). While African slaves did not choose to come to America, we suspect that their presence there is the reason this Swahili word came to be a part of the English language.  

ACSOP NEWS: Thirteen Masters' Students have arrived to take the class being taught by Jimmy ("The Spiritual Development of the Preacher"). We enjoyed them being in our home for a spaghetti dinner last Wednesday evening (cooked by our 14-year-old daughter, Heather). Lindsey has been tasked with the job of interviewing them so we may learn more and share that information with you. 

Today the "spotlight" will be on Pius Bwile, a Christian of over 20 years, and the father of five. Although Pius was not raised in a Christian home, his mother taught him the Gospel after she learned the Truth as an older adult. Fifteen members of his family are Christians and Pius speaks five different languages (I'm still struggling with my second one). When a former ACSOP student told him about the school, Pius said he was very excited about the opportunity to become a Gospel preacher. He says the best thing he has learned at ACSOP was Greek but his favorite class was the Leadership Class taught by Bob Turner (Bear Valley Bible Institute of Denver, CO).  

Time is flying and, in 9 months, Lord willing, we leave our TZ home for a furlough that we take every 2 1/2 years. There is a LOT of preparation in order to leave the house and get "all of our ducks in a row" so to speak. Before leaving, one major task is to prepare a new presentation of the work, showing how it has grown, changed, new aspects of the work, etc. 

Furloughs are important in order to speak with people face-to-face about the work, visit our supporters and family. However, we don't like the "uprooting" for three months or more, the initial 24 hours of travel, the almost-claustrophobic feeling on the airplane, airplane food, lack of sleep, jet lag, traveling in the states every weekend and sometimes on Wednesday nights, fast food, gaining 30 lbs (did it our other two 2 furloughs, so why should this one be any different?) getting to hotels at 1 am or later...dragging sleeping kids out of the van, and then getting up at 6 am to get ready for church services (many times to drive another hour to get to the building depending on the location of the hotel). We used to think that staying in hotels and eating out was fun!  ha/ha  We spent so much time on the roads that some of our older children said once they sat down on the bench at church they began looking for their seat belt!

In Trina's opinion, furloughs help keep missionaries in the field (but not for the reasons you may think). There are times when the "grass seems greener" in America when we lose our focus and see only the congested traffic, the inefficiency and corruption in TZ government offices, experience culture issues, language issues, instability of electrical power and insufficient water supply, see a lack of beauty in many places (trash everywhere in the city), street teenagers demanding money, observe the sadness and poverty sin has brought and witness young children unsupervised, uncared for and unloved.   

However, a month of furlough is enough to rid us of any desire for the comforts and convenience of the U.S. and to cause us to ache to return to the mission field. American food doesn't taste quite as good as remembered, we tire of being the visitor at every congregation with few opportunities to teach and become frustrated at not having much of a purpose. Listening to the same presentation (ours) every week gets old and the singing at most congregations is not quite as good as we longed for (all of a sudden we realize we are singing the loudest and wonder why no one else is thrilled to sing these English songs?). We sometimes see furloughs as a "necessary evil" because, for the most part,  we'd rather stay here on the African continent and skip the time in America.

We believe missionaries should be more "transparent" in reporting the good AND the bad, the rewarding AND the challenging, the successes AND the disappointments. So before you write us off as a "Negative Nellie," we will also say that furloughs are beneficial in a positive way because so many of you treat us royally, having us in your homes, feeding us, planning special occasions, and encouraging us by expressing your appreciation through words and generosity. Going to Backwoods Christian Camp is another grand benefit of furlough. Our spirits get refreshed and renewed by reconnecting with many Christian friends.  

Last, but not LEAST, we will enjoy time with our oldest son, Todd (and girlfriend, Lauren Kelly), our parents, siblings and extended families, and grandchildren get to visit grandparents. Then, soon, we return to the mission field, back to familiarity for the past 8 years, back to our TZ friends and to people hungry to learn the truth, back to our own house and our normal routine.

Today, the services of the church were moved to the ACSOP building due to some race cars practicing in the field right next to the church building (lots of dust and lots of noise). The ladies and Trina completed Genesis chapter 27 discussing deception, consequences of sin, and the principles of reaping and sowing. Abigail taught the children's class. Jimmy preached a great sermon on Col. 3:1-3 on "Seeking Things Above." One visitor, Alex, worshipped with us today. Ahimidiwe and others have been studying with him for about two months.

Thank you for the opportunity of working here. Please remember our new sister Rehema as she begins her new life and pray for her faithfulness. Pray that Nice will come to the knowledge of the Truth and understand fully concerning a commitment to Christ and will obey. Both attended worship today.

May your day be filled with warmth, love and appreciation for all of your blessings! We count you as one of ours. Thank you for joining hands with us in teaching the Gospel in East Africa. We love you all!  

Priviledged to Serve in Tanzania,
Jimmy, Trina, Lindsey, Abigail, Heather, Candace, Stuart, David, Naomi, Elijah and Matthew

Honduras Campaigns Bear Fruit...

Good evening, brother,

I hope this finds you well with your wife. During this week of the month of July the students have been helping the congregations, and they have also been involved in different evangelistic campaigns. Their presence has been of much help, since there have been positive results.

In the campaign in La Villa de San Francisco there were 18 baptisms and one restoration. In the campaign in Talango there were 14 baptisms. All of the students put into practice the knowledge acquired and achieved as seen through the people who were baptized. At this moment brother Jose Cruz and I are in La Esperanza Intibuca in a campaign. We hope for the same results of the previous campaign.

Upon my return to Danlí, I will send you a personal report for the month of July for each student.  For the moment all are well. We are looking for new prospects for the next years. Here in Intibuca, brother Carlos Herandez has a group of 4 prospects to whom he is sending the books:  What Does the Bible Say? and Biblical Fundamentals.  We hope to have a major group for the next promotion.

Have a good night!

Nery Irías

Wealth Of Great News In Cambodia...

Two reports from Cambodia are below. The first is from Phanat.

Dear Brethren, 

What a joy it is to report about the work of Christ here in Cambodia. Once again, I thank you for your steadfastness in your support and prayers. The church here and my family really appreciate all that you do for us. I am honored to be able to say that we added 3 new souls to the church in Siem Reap and 4 other souls in Leang Dai for the month of July! 

Sokchea is doing a wonderful job in the village of Leang Dai and have been very active in helping the poor villagers there see God. The 3 new souls in Siem Reap excites me because these individuals have studied a long period of time before submitting their lives to Christ. One of them studied and wrestled for almost 2 years before she decided to be baptized for the remission of her sins. This shows me that we are truly converting souls to the Lord and not just baptizing for the sake of baptizing. 

In other news, the school will be graduating 8 students in the month of August. All 8 graduates have places to go and tell others of God. We ask that you keep the work and the graduates in your prayer as they serve God faithfully!

Tuk, one of our first year student who after 7 months of studying the Bible, came to the knowledge of the truth on his own and made the right decision to be baptized for the remission of his sins.

Srey Ney, studied for almost two years with Chouey, one of our staff, and decided it was time to forsake all others and follow after Christ!

Phanat

To see the report with pictures of the baptisms, click here.

Chann’s report is below

Dear beloved brethren,

When I write this letter, it makes me feel that I have a great privilege to know you, and more than that I can call you as my brother and sister. That makes me feel as we are in one family that our Lord Jesus Christ made this possible thing for us.

I have some news want to share with you all about the work that we are doing in Siem Reap, Cambodia as following.

We have four congregations that we've been establishing. The first one is the church in Siem Reap (Siem Reap Church Of Christ). The second one is the Leang Dai Church Of Christ. The third one is the Takam Church Of Christ and the fourth one is the Svay Rieng Church Of Christ.  

The Siem Reap Church
For the Siem Reap Church Of Christ I, myself (Kimchann Lork), preach for this

congregation. I am very happy to see some growth among our brethren in our church. In my purpose about the work in Siem Reap we will build up our faith among us so that we can reach out to other people through our good example. As you all may know, most of us are young people so we need to take time in order for us to grow in the faith and share with others. 

Mt. 5:13-15, I Timothy 4:11-16.

We are now doing our evangelism in some villages around the church, both at Takam and Leang Dai, so our students will get some idea before we evangelize in the city. Also now we are trying to reach out to one more area call Tek Klieng, where we plan to have another congregation near in the future that two our students plan to preach there. 

Takam Church
Recently, the church at Takam obtained a property; the building for the church to meet, bathroom, well, baptistry and the pond. All of these will help the church be stable at first, we hope. Now the church that meet there is between 20 to 35 people. Cheouy and Vanra work for the church there right now. 

Lean Dai Church
The work in Leang Dai is doing well, as yesterday Sokchea and Ravy baptized four more people after they studied with those people for a couple of months.

Sokchea asked us to bring our students over to help evangelize over the weekend at another village called Trapang Svay, and we have been studying with them for a month and half already. We ask you to pray for this village so that they will obey the gospel very soon.  

Svay Rieng Church
This congregation has preaching by our two brothers, Saran and Sophal. There is also one more sister Ussa that is now married to Saran and they a son.

The work there is doing all right, and the church that meets there have from 8-10. I just called a preacher there to see how they are because they are a way from us and he said they are doing okay. 

All in all this is brief news. I am looking to write you more later. Thanks for your love and kindness, that support for the work in Cambodia. 

God bless you all and we love you.
Chann

Busy In Uganda...

Dear brethren,

The last week went well here in Busia. Our short course teachers are back home and our long course teachers are now here. Brother Peter Ambaka from Lumakanda church of Christ in Western Kenya has come and he is one of our instructors this quarter again. Brother Ambaka is a graduate of  Botswana School of Biblical Studies which moved to Zambia and is called Zambia School of Biblical Studies. He is teaching the One True Church. Brother Raymond Bwambale from Maliba church of Christ in Kasese Western Uganda is teaching Leviticus to Deuteronomy. Samson Omutele is teaching the book of Matthew and brother Ouma Christopher from Bwoya church of Christ in Namayingo District in Uganda here is teaching Joshua Judges and Ruth. 

I am very busy with the administration and we are also working the water harvest system at the school and moving the bee hives from its place to a better place where we are building brick stands. The metal ones which we had prepared are getting broken because of rusting. I have also enrolled with International College of the Bible in the Master’s program which is also keeping me very busy as the lessons are taught over the internet. 

The churches of Christ here are doing fine so far. Bulukuyi is building their temporary building. They still need something like $150 for grass and doors and windows. Junge are still making their bricks. Their building is almost falling. They will be in need of $300 dollars for the iron sheets. They will be building as they have some masons in the congregation. The remaining congregations are still in their needs which I informed you about. We wish you well in the Lord. 

Yours
Francis, Margaret, Paul, Edith Mawa Wechesa

Tony Johnson Arrives In Tamale...

Greetings from Tamale! Here is the latest news from the Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies.  

Class Schedule
The summer term at the Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies began on July 10^th with five classes on the schedule for the returning students. The summer term marks the beginning of the students second year at the institute for the twelve students. Classes and instructors for this term are:

1^st Corinthians, 2^nd Corinthians, taught by Jack Dodgen

Church History, two sessions on Romans, taught by Tony Johnson.

The Institutes regular teachers, Baah Okyere Joseph, Daniel Agyei Mensah, and Jaminja Ndakar will return to their teaching duties during the fall term beginning in September. 

Guest Instructor 
The Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies was blessed to have Jack Dodgen join the staff as a guest instructor for the summer term. Jack is a member of the North MacArthur church of Christ in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and student at the Bear Valley Bible Institute of Denver where he is scheduled to graduate in December of this year. 

Jack had a busy schedule, teaching 22 class sessions (a total of 82.5 classroom hours) in a three week period. During his stay Jack has also been involved with teaching at the Tamale West congregation, and with preaching in the villages of Tijo and Jimla. The Institute would like to thank Jack for his willingness to raise the necessary funds to travel to Tamale and for all of his work while here, and encourage any other teachers who are interested in serving to contact Tony Johnson at anthonyjohnson2010@gmail.com.  

New Staff Member
Tony Johnson has joined the staff at the Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies and will assist the school as the Bear Valley coordinator and as a classroom instructor. Tony had previously worked at the Institute for six weeks in June and July 2011 as a guest instructor. 

Tony is a member of the Greenbrier church of Christ in Greenbrier, Arkansas, and works under the oversight of the elders of that congregation. He is a graduate of the Bear Valley Bible Institute of Denver and has also assisted in short term mission works in Matamoros, Mexico, and Iringa, Tanzania.  

Building Update
Work continues on the new home for the Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies with plumbing work and concrete plastering scheduled to be done during the last weeks of July, followed by installation of doors and louvers (windows) in August. Current plans are to have the facility ready for students to occupy the dormitory rooms and classroom when they return from their Christmas break in January 2013, but there is much work that must be completed prior to then, including the running of both electricity and water lines to the property. The move will also require a great deal of logistical planning since all of the equipment in use at the current leased school location will have to be moved to the new location, including student and staff furniture, classroom equipment, and water storage tanks. It will be a busy fall as we plan and execute the move. 

Evangelism
Plans are currently being made for two evangelistic campaigns in the coming months. During the last week of August members of the Tamale staff along with some current students will be conducting a campaign in the Sinkasse area, which is located on the border area where Ghana, Togo, and Burkina Faso meet. The purpose of this campaign will be to encourage the Ghanaian Christians in evangelizing and growing the church in Togo. The second campaign is being planned for October and will be for the purpose of planting a church in the Bimbila area of Ghana. This campaign will make use of current students, graduates, and staff members. Look for more information about these campaigns in the coming weeks and months as plans are finalized.

In closing the staff at the Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies wishes to thank all of those who are supporting the Institute through your prayers and with your financial support. You are making a difference in Northern Ghana and the surrounding countries.

In His service,
Tony Johnson
Coordinator 

To view Tony’s report with pictures, click here.

Preparing For A New Class...

Dearest in Christ,

Accept greetings from the staff, students and the members of the Wotutu congregation. We praise God for all that He is doing to us to go about our work.

We do hope this report finds you all in good health and sound faith as usual. The work here in Wotutu, in particular, and Cameroon, in general, is moving ahead well. The week in CBIW went on well and all the students are okay except for few students who are sick, but we have some medicine in the school to handle small situations.

The week was also busy as we welcomed 25 new prospective students who came to Wotutu for the entrance exams. Many others who were on their way to Wotutu could not make it because of the severe down pour of rain. Because of that we have given them another day of grace to come over to Wotutu, Tuesday the 31st of July, and then we shall release their results thereafter.

I supervised the entrance exams for our prospective students. Keep them all in your prayers, and us so that God will help us to select those He has already selected. We need 20 students for the next batch.

The exercise took the whole day, as leaders of the Wotutu congregation were there to see it to the end. They were also part of the face to face interviews with all the prospective students.

Because of the length of the program, we were bound to serve lunch to the prospective students to refresh them as they were supposed to leave Wotutu back to their destination. We thank God, for as many of them who made it back have called to tell us about their safe arrival.

Some students went out to Mbanga again to continue to evangelize and to nurture the newly established congregation, which is one week old now. Brother Norbert went there this weekend and came back with great news of two precious souls that were added into the body there. Keep this work in your prayers because God is doing something new in that community.

Plans
1) We look for means to move to other communities for the church to be planted.

2) My trip to ACAC conference is ready.

Appreciations
We appreciate God for you allowing yourself to be used by God. We praise God for all that He is doing in our ministry. Please share it with others, so that they may love to come and be part of this soul winning team. God bless you. I am sorry that we don’t have pictures for the students weekend evangelism because, they went without a camera. God bless you for being there for the Lord.

Elangwe and family

By His grace director CBIW

Opportunities Are Unending...

As we draw near to the end of the month, Sheryl and I are nearing the end of our travels to see current and potential supporters for the work. It has been a very encouraging month as we share the news from the Bear Valley Bible Institute in Denver, as well as, the development of the Extension program around the world.

This week we had opportunity to visit with one new congregation, the Crossroads church of Christ just outside of Enola, Arkansas. This congregation may be small in number, but they are large in spirit and their generosity is encouraging. I am always amazed how sacrificial the giving is with congregations that would be considered small in number. 

We also had opportunity to visit with the Enola church of Christ. This congregation has been instrumental in financially supporting us personally for several years. We are grateful for their sacrificial generosity as well. They have been a consistent light in helping provide support for our work in Denver, as well as, our endeavors to travel in the Extension program.

Sheryl and I give thanks to God for these two congregations and all the individuals and congregations who share in the development of our efforts and the various schools around the world where men are being trained to preach the gospel.

The reports each week continue to bring exciting news in the development of men who are preparing themselves for ministry. Their efforts are what this work is really all about. The strength of their labors is what needs to be lifted up. They need to be encouraged for their diligent and sacrificial work as they share the good news of Jesus.

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/

Wes Autrey prepares for his trip to Cambodia for the second graduation ceremony of IBISR. His report can be ready by clicking here.

Extension Reports 

Return From Nigeria: After returning from Nigeria, brother Elangwe shares news from activities in the work of Cameroon.

Gospel Chariot Headed For Chimala: One of the wonderful tools used to reach out with the gospel is headed for Chimala, Tanzania.

Reaching Out To Denominations: At the request of several in the denominational groups in Kpalime, Togo, plans are made for classes to teach the gospel.

An Exceptional Day In Arusha: After a beautiful week, the work of the church continues to see the hand of God at work.

The Church Grows In Tanzania: God has given the increase as the church continues to see souls added in Arusha, Tanzania. 

Final Thoughts
Thank you for taking time to read the report each week. The news is so encouraging and I pray you are edified by the reports. Thank you for your prayers for those who are laboring so diligently and sacrificially in sharing the news of Jesus. We need to continually lift them up. Thank you for your support. Your generosity and sacrifice cannot be measured. I look forward to heaven when we will all have opportunity to meet one another from every nation, tribe, tongue, and language.

God bless
Bob

Graduation Is A Week Away...

I wanted to send you a quick report regarding Cambodia before I take my trip there next week. After my visit, I will be sending a more full report and am anxious to get back with you and all the news.

The IBISR (International Bible Institute at Siem Reap) is graduating 7 young men and women this month. The men will continue on to preach and teach the word. The women will also continue in evangelizing and teaching women and children the word of God. Each graduating student has now been studying in school for an average of 6 hours per day, 5 days a week (not including homework, tests and field work) for the 2 years. The students also have been evangelizing and teaching almost every Saturday. They travel long distances to bring the word to those of their native country who have never heard about Jesus, God or even the Bible. They have spent countless Saturdays encouraging the brethren in the small villages around by visiting, working in the rice fields, aiding in medical needs or transportation to larger towns for various reasons.

Two of the young men will be living on a boat on Ton Le Sap Lake and making it their home and church building. They will travel up and down the lake while evangelizing mostly to the poorest of the poor who need Christ. These are largely Vietnamese refugees that have no where to go and live in extreme poverty, even by Cambodian standards. 

Three of the men were originally from the village of Takam where the church is bursting with growth. They wish to continue preaching and teaching in and around their home village and continue the great works that are already established while expanding into nearby areas. These young men show leadership skills that have me excited about the church’s future in that part of the country.

We have added more to the Lords church, but I hope to have a more accurate account after my visit.

We also have 8 new students confirmed for the new school year that begins in September. Please remember all of these young men and women as they often are giving up much in the way of families and friends to follow Jesus.

In short you can be proud of your young brothers and sisters in Christ that are graduating in 2012. They love the Lord and express that love to their native countrymen with zeal and sound doctrine.

Please pray for me as I am making my first trip alone. I am very grateful to you for your vision and faith in the work being done there. May the Lord bless you for all the good that you do for His kingdom.

Peace in Christ, 

Wes Autrey
Cambodia Coordinator