Let The Campaigns Begin In Cameroon...

Dearest in Christ,

Accept greetings from the staff, students and members of the Wotutu congregation. We praise God for you over there and we do hope you are doing great.

God blessed us again last week by adding sister Patience Wase into His body here in Wotutu. Keep this pregnant sister in your prayers that all will go well with her and through her, the husband will one day obey the truth.

We just concluded our worship of God today under severe rain, but God blessed us to have 87 in attendance and 1 visitor. Rainy season is still on in Cameroon making the weather good for our garden and plant life.

As I write this mail all the students of CBIW are away from the campus to 17 different communities for their last evangelism exercise as they round up their studies by 20th of December 2012 for the alpha graduation.

As I write this report brother Brandon Watson from Texas is flying over the sky on his way to meet with his family and his congregation, please keep him in your prayers. After this report I will be taking brother Robert Prater to the airport in Douala to fly out to Germany where he is serving as a missionary. Keep him also in your prayers. We appreciate God for their good health throughout their stay with us here. We were blessed with their time both in the school and our congregation.

The students and the visiting lecturers stood with me for a family picture and also to express our appreciation to God for a successful end of the short courses, Denominational Doctrines and the book of Hebrews. Our tombs were up again, as usual a strong sign to comfort ourselves that we are not alone.

Immediately after the family picture, students were set to collect transport and grape juice to far away villages for their campaign. We do our best to buy these brand of fruits of the vines because many congregations in those villages use alcoholic wine for the Lord’s supper. We are advocating seriously against that, and we pray God will help us make the church of Christ in Cameroon pure from all stuff.

Our students also help us in the distributions of the Teachers Bible to preachers, leaders and denominational “pastors” in faraway villages. This will help blend the doctrine of Christ in Cameroon and also help spread the saving message to denominational leaders. Giving the Bibles to denominational leaders is the aim of the producer, brother Roger Dickson. Brother Dickson is a missionary in Cape Town, South Africa.

As usual, whenever we are sending our students for campaign, and also say goodbye to our visiting instructors, we organize a small fellowship meal. This time around popcorn and peanuts were the combination to keep us together as we say safe trip to both the students and the visiting instructors.

Plans
1) Within this week I will do my best to check on some of the students in their respective place of campaign.

2) More evangelism to virgin land is being studied now before the students will resume school on the 29th of September.

Problems
We faced difficulties in sending students out because of the rainy season that has destroyed most of our roads, and because of this transportation from Wotutu to those campaign sites was not easy. But thanks be to God who helped all of them to get to their destinations without much problems. Some of them trekked by foot long distances inside the forest.

Appreciations
Many thanks goes to God for His great care over us and His love for all of us. The students in our congregation and the orphans in our congregation are all back in school. We thank God for you and for your deep prayers and concern over the work here. God bless you all and keep you to do more for His glory.

Do your best to share this report with others. God may touch someone to be part of this soul winning ministry.

Elangwe and family
By His grace Director CBIW

The Nepal Summit...

The Liberty congregation outside of Houston hosted the first Nepal Summit over the weekend. The focus was on the work of the Nepal Center for Biblical Studies in Kathmandu, Nepal. Don Prather and Mike York have been working stateside to assist the work in Nepal. Both men serve as a co-coordinators for the work. They are assisting Jerry Golphenee who works on the ground in Kathmandu along side director, Gajendra Deshar. 

Jerry was able to attend the Nepal Summit and share the latest information about the work of the school in Nepal, along with the development of the local congregations in Kathmandu. There is a great deal of excitement associated with the work of the school in helping prepare men who will strengthen congregations. The impact of their work is already making a difference as local Christians witness the difference in the ability of these men to preach God’s word.

I enjoyed the opportunity of sharing in the Nepal Summit and providing information about the development of the overall Bear Valley program. With the development of working together with congregations in four new locations, training men to preach is taking on new wings. With the partnership in Liberia, Nigeria, Kenya, and as the work in Paraguay begins in March 2013, there will be approximately 350 men in 18 locations involved in preparing themselves to take the saving message of Jesus to their people.

There is nothing better than being able to report about the progress these men are making as they are studying and evangelizing at the same time. Their work is already making a difference in the lives of so many people around the world. This week’s reports continue to support the reason this work is so necessary.

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/

I recently received a report on the progress of the work being done by Gage Coldwater, who provides the extension program with training for students in agricultural / vocational development. If you would like to see the report with pictures and learn more about Manna Farm, please click here.

Howell Ferguson’s report with recent pictures of Howell’s grandchildren can be seen by clicking here.

Extension Reports 

Short Courses Soon Lead To Campaigns In Cameroon: This is the last week for short courses at CBIW and the students then travel to 17 locations for campaigns.

Celebrating 15 Years Of Training: The very first school where Bear Valley began working in Extension Training is now celebrating 15 years in Ukraine.

Local Congregation Is Growing In India: The local church meeting where the Visakha Valley Bible College is located is seeing numerical and spiritual growth.

Mission Groups Visit Paraguay: A group from Virginia recently visited the work in Paraguay and their efforts were positive.

Three Precious Souls: A recent campaign in northern Togo and in Ghana has seen fruit born as three obeyed the gospel.

Demonstrating Love For God, Even When Persecuted: It is amazing when someone obeys the gospel and then must stand for God, even though persecuted. This is a powerful read.

A Beautiful Sunday In Tanzania: The beautiful nature of Tanzania is a great backdrop to the beautiful nature of the work in Arusha. 

Final Thoughts
As the program continues to develop in the months and years ahead I am thankful for the privilege of working side by side with those who have dedicated themselves to the task of training preachers. There are a number of levels and numerous men who have made great sacrifices to contribute to the success of this work. Thank you! As well, for most of you reading this report, you already know the prayers, financial support, encouragement, and sharing these reports with others is helping spread the word about the Extension Program. Thank you! All of us, working together, is what is needed to make an eternal difference in the lives of others. Only God knows how many lives will be touched through this work. Thank you!

God bless
Bob

A Beautiful Sunday In Tanzania...

To our wonderful supporters, family and friends, 

QUOTE OF THE WEEK: "I believe that the first test of a truly great man is his humility." --John Ruskin

Many who enjoy our report are kind enough to write and say so. We appreciate the comments and your compliments on the writing (although we know that many improvements could be made). Trina agrees with a famous writer who said, "Writing? Oh, that's nothing. It's just like sitting down and opening up a vein" (and, in our case of reporting, trying to remember all the details of events, etc).

Today is another beautiful Sunday in northern Tanzania (East Africa). One of the benefits of living in Tanzania is great weather the majority of the time! Stuart's count after church services was 108, which included one visitor named Francis (from Kisongo). The attendance in the ladies class was lower than usual. Genesis 29:1-20 (Jacob meets Rachel) was our scripture passage and our study focused on "love" (our topic from verse 20 "Jacob served seven years for Rachel and they seemed to him but a few days because of his love for her." Jimmy taught the new converts' class and preached on "Suffering for the Sake of Righteousness."

After services, Trina met with all the mothers to announce a service that the "Gee ladies" are offering on Wednesdays from 9 am - 1 pm. Every Wednesday is "Market Day" in Kisongo where people buy all kinds of food (fruits, vegetables, corn flour, etc), live chickens, goats and other goods (shoes, tobacco, clothes, furniture, etc). Due to the crowds and heavy loads they must carry, this is a hard day for many women. Imagine carrying a child on your back or holding the hand of a young child as you battle multitudes of people, livestock, dala dalas, and wooden carts while trying to shop. This experience gives new meaning to the "shop 'til you drop" phrase  . . . because women here can really relate. Since many don't have anyone reliable with whom to leave their children we hoped this short, child-care service would benefit them. We have seen a baby left in the care of 8 year old neighborhood boy and very young children left at home alone and were concerned for their safety. In order to give quality care, we limited the age span (1-4 years old) and the total number of children accepted (10). The children will learn about the Bible, play games, learn some English, color, watch movies, play outside and be served a snack and lunch. Nine children were signed up with a possible tenth one tomorrow. Heather and Candace are excited about this, and, perhaps when Lindsey and Abigail can help, more children can be accepted in the future (perhaps we can offer this service to non-Christian families using it as an outreach program).

This week, Lindsey and Abigail continue studying Revelation at the ACSOP, still have papers to write for other ACSOP classes, and are continuing to complete their home-school education. Last week, we failed to mention that the picture of the two little girls with their hair "mussed up" was Lindsey and Abigail during our first year in Africa (2001) when they were 6 years old. Oh, the memories...

For two days our visitors, Adam Miller and Scott Baggett, worked with the church in Kwa Mrombo where one unfaithful member was restored to the body and one new soul was added! Kwa Mrombo is a new church plant (established in the last few years) and has been the recipient of the efforts of many, including both the Hoover, AL and Oklahoma groups. Speaking of the OK group, Brad Whinery will be returning to TZ in October to speak at the Leadership Conference. Some other visitors scheduled in the near future are: Neil Richey, Buddy Fry, Denny Petrillo, Bob Turner, Michael Hite, Neal Pollard, Nathan Adams and the preacher at Zachary, LA (Bruce Hatcher) where we served for 2 years before coming to Africa in 2005. We are very grateful for the many who labor with us (our supporters, visiting teachers, evangelists, etc) and who are responsible for a great deal of the success of the TZ 2000 Mission Work. Adam and Scott (above) have returned from a week of preaching and teaching in Moshi and, again, brought great news of two baptisms and one restoration!

For those who do not receive our director's report, here is an interesting excerpt. Cy Stafford writes:

"I received a short note from our brother Gasper today sharing the good news of one soul being added to the Kingdom at the new church plant at Kamba ya Chui. God continues to give the increase as His faithful servants continue to serve Him. We are indeed grateful for the privilege we are so richly blessed with, being able to work with such godly men.

One such man is David Bayi, the evangelist working with the Kioga congregation. When David was a student at the Andrew Connally School of Preaching the need for a new church plant was presented to the class. He volunteered to walk up Mt. Meru three miles every Sun. and Wed. was in school and continues today. This congregation began meeting in a small 6X8 foot goat shed and today is a congregation of over 100 souls. Yes, with God all things are possible."

While in Nairobi last week, Cy met with 18 evangelists from the Nairobi area in order to share the news of the Andrew Connally School of Preaching here in Kisongo (in its 11th year of operation) and the fruit being borne. He came away from that meeting with two men expressing the desire to come to the ACSOP. On Wednesday of this week, Cy, Jimmy, Sean, and Elly will leave to begin their week-long travels to Dar Es Salaam, Mbeya and other cities, towns and villages to meet with preachers and prospective students to recruit for the ACSOP. The school is named for the late Andrew Connally from Texas who began the work in Chimala, (southern Tanzania) in the early '60's. For interesting reading, find a copy of one of his many books on mission work entitled "So You Want a Glorified Holiday?" His wife, Claudine Connelly, wrote an insightful account of her time in Africa entitled "I Walked By His Side" which Trina read before coming to Tanzania.

ALUMNUS ASSOCIATION TO BE ESTABLISHED: During the upcoming leadership conference the ACSOP faculty plan to meet with graduates and present students in order to have a meal together and talk about setting up an alumni group, possibly using Facebook as a tool in the process. Please pray that God uses this to His glory.

GENERATOR: In the past we have mentioned the need for a new generator at the school. Many of you responded generously to that need. We purchased the generator and then filed for a tax exemption. Well, it has been many months now and the government has still not completed that process. In order to get the generator we have decided simply to pay the taxes and move on. The needed amount is $2600, of which $1250 has already been contributed. Therefore, we are lacking $1350. If you or your congregation can help with this we would be grateful. Please send any amount you can to the Kensington Woods address, listed on the front page of this report. Please mark it "ACSOP Generator."

In the family news, Matthew turned six years old, Trina has rearranged the house again and the girls are planning to invite a house full of friends for a sleep-over while Jimmy is gone. Abigail has gone to study with Grace and Trina got the opportunity today to visit with Rosemary and see her new baby girl! She also visited with Rosemary's sister-in-law Usta, who is her next door neighbor (also a member at Kisongo).

Love to you all and our many thanks for helping us win souls in East Africa!

Blessings to you and your family,
The Jimmy Gee Family

To view the report with pictures, please click here.

Demonstrating Love For God, Even When Persecuted...

Greetings Fellow Workers,

We continue to remember you all in our prayers of thanksgivings. You are in our minds and heart daily as we labor together in the Kingdom’s work. Our continued hope and prayer is for prosperity to be with you and that through your continued support of God’s work in Tanzania, many might be saved eternally.

The true power of the Gospel is having its way throughout East Africa. One such example is in the faithfulness of our new brother, Gaudence. During the summer campaign at Maji ya Chai this fellow received a Bible tract on the subject of God ‘s plan for the salvation of man. He approached a team the next day and inquired to know more of God’s Word. In the end he and an older man obeyed the Gospel.

Over the past several weeks Gaudence and his wife (who has also obeyed the Gospel) have been persecuted without mercy from those of their former faith. Gaudence and his wife remain strong in the Lord, having found a new meeting place for worship and this past week lead three more souls to the Lord. This demonstration of their love for God, perseverance and love for the lost is really what makes all this effort worth while.

Another wonderful example of God’s power through His Word and the Gospel is the new school of preaching in Kenya. Mike Reese and others, working through the Bear Valley extension program have begun a new work in the city of Kisumu, Kenya. The new class intake begin their studies this month. The spread of the Gospel has been spreading for years through the good efforts of the Tanzania 2000 mission efforts. This demonstrated fittingly in the planting of this new effort in Kisumu.

The Director of the program that has been chosen to lead this effort is Charles Ogutu, one of our graduates. The two deans are also graduates of the Andrew Connally School of Preaching. We are thrilled to be apart of such a grand work of God and to be able to see the fruition of the labors of the past few years. You have heard me say before and I say again; what God controls grows! Thanks be to God for the increase.

We are thankful for Adam Miller and Scott Baggett for their efforts at Kwa Mrombo and for this past week that spent at Moshi working with the Kilimanjaro congregation. Through their efforts the Lord has restored one and added another at Kwa Mrombo the week before and at Moshi another soul was restored and one obeyed the Gospel. The positive impact and influence of our short-term workers are never underestimated by this missionary. We thank God for these two godly men and all the others who sacrifice much in coming to join us in our search for lost souls.

A closing tribute to our dear sister Caitlin Middleton who returned home this past week. She is a true soldier of Christ and there are now six souls in the Kingdom because she cared. Thank you Caitlin, job well done.

Gasper called a few minuets ago and three souls obeyed the Gospel at Mto wa Mbu today. These three have been studying with Greg Dixon, an Elder at the Northport congregation in Tuscaloosa, AL who has been teaching God’s Word via Skype. Amen, Amen!

We continue praying for you all and we beg of your prayers on our behalf. There is much to do, few laborers for sure, but, by the power of God all things are truly possible.

In Him, Cy, Stephanie and Granny

Three Precious Souls Added...

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

School Update
Students will be returning on Monday, September 10th, to begin their seventh term (out of ten) classes. The schedule at the Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies (TIBS) is designed to allow the students time to return home after each of the six week terms in order to plant, harvest, and take care of their families. In order to take the extra time off the students spend seven and a half hours per day in classes during the term.

This term the students will be receiving instruction from the entire staff of TIBS as well as from guest instructor Daniel Ampadu Asiamah from the West Coast School of preaching. The schedule for this term includes World Religions, focusing on Islam and Animism, Old Testament 5, Denominational Doctrines, Gospel of John, and Marriage and the Home. There will also be a short course on the great commission and an evangelistic campaign at the end of the quarter.

We are praying that all students will be able to return for this term. During the previous term two students were unable to attend because of serious illnesses. Please join us in praying for the students and the success of this term.  

Evangelism Update
During the period of August 22nd through September 2nd, an evangelistic campaign was held in Cinkasse, Togo. This campaign was a combined effort of TIBS, the church in Bawku, Ghana, and preachers from Dapaong, Togo. The purpose of the campaign was to plant a congregation of the church in Cinkasse, assure that the necessary support for the church to grow during the next year was in place, and encourage the Ghanaian and Togolese Christians in working together to grow the kingdom in the northern regions of both countries.

Cinkasse, which has an estimated population of around 30,000 people, is located in the northwest corner of the country, where Togo, Ghana, and Burkina Faso all meet. Because of its location it is a major trade area, with people from all three countries coming for the Thursday and Sunday market days. The city is primarily Muslim, as is the case with most of the northern regions of both Ghana and Togo, but is also heavily influenced by traditional African religions.

The campaign began with a week of preparation by current TIBS students Joseph Molsak and Nichema Jacob, along with Fidel, one of the Togolese preachers. Joseph and Nichema brought a number of members from their home congregations in Bawku to assist them as they went out visiting in the residential and business areas of Cinkasse to invite the community to attend the showing of Bible films during the last three days of the campaign. Joining the group later in the first week were two TIBS graduates, Stephen Abugbilla and Avoka John Mbilla, who are currently working as preachers in northern Ghana. Finally, Steven Ashcraft and I showed up on the 29th with the equipment to show the Bible films to complete the campaign team.

For the final three days of the campaign we spent the mornings going out in teams of two to visit the community and do street preaching and teaching. After resting in the afternoon, we would begin setting up the video equipment at the local park to show a different movie each night. The first night we showed The Jesus Story, an account of Jesus’ life based on the gospel of Luke, with an estimated 300 in attendance. The second night the movie was The Passion of Christ, and the final night’s movie was the story of Abraham. While it was impossible to get an accurate count of how many attended, I would give a conservative estimate of over 400 for each of the final two nights, with many, many more coming and going throughout the evening. Each movie was paused about halfway through in order for one of the preachers to offer a message, and then again just before the end for another message. The end result of the campaign was three precious souls baptized. There were four additional prospects who expressed a strong interest in being baptized who are being followed up with by the team who is providing support for the church as it grows.

One of the more interesting challenges during the movies was explaining The Passion of the Christ for the audience. Those familiar with the movie know that the dialogue it is in Aramaic with English subtitles. Since the audience did not speak/read English it was necessary for me to explain what was going on to one of our students, who then explained it to the audience in one of the local dialects. The challenge was in keeping up with the film as we went through the multiple translations! 

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. There are still many needs, both here in Ghana and in the surrounding countries. If you are interested in knowing more about the work being done, or are interested in helping support a student ($100 per month takes care of one student during their time in school) or an evangelistic campaign (each campaign costs between $750 and $1000) please send me an e-mail at anthonyjohnson2010@gmail.com. There is much work that can be done with your help! 

In His service,
Tony Johnson

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

Mission Groups Visit Paraguay...

Mission Group from Virginia
We had a mission group from Virginia come down and work with the church here in Paraguay. They worked on several service projects, visited the area orphanages, and helped develop new contacts through teaching English by using the Bible. We are very thankful for their humble, servant's attitude.

Bible School
The Special Committee for the Bible School has continued to meet regularly and to work on the development of the school. They have spent several weeks focusing on the mission statement of the school, and eventually arrived at the following (translated into English): "To nourish our brethren with the words of the faith and of the good doctrine, in brotherly love, so that they may be thoroughly equipped to fulfill the commandments of our Lord Jesus" - 1 Timothy 4:6 and Matthew 28:19-20. It is wonderful to see the way they are approaching and thinking about this! It shows great maturity on their part!

Service groups and Bible studies!
August brought many great activities and opportunities! We had a mission group come down from Virginia who completed several service projects. Andrea and I have been very active lately with lots of Bible studies (our favorite thing to do!), and we've had the opportunity to make a few more visits this past month. We continue to work on generating more contacts and are currently teaching several English students by using the Bible. What a tremendous blessing! We thank you so much for your love, support, and prayers! God is being glorified in Asunción, Paraguay! Enjoy!

Troy Spradlin

Local Congregation Is Growing In India...

We salute you in the matchless name of Lord Jesus Christ our Savior and Redeemer of the world.  It is so wonderful to witness the baptism of several people especially those belonging to a certain denominational group during the last two months. These results have been a great encouragement to the school as well as to the local congregation. 

Church is growing:
Local congregation: We were uplifted by the addition of new souls to the local congregation that meets at VVBC facility. In the recent visit of brother Denton Landon, who taught Master Class students, he worshipped with the local congregation. When he saw the large group gathered on that Sunday he remarked that the ‘local church is growing.’

Gradually our school and the local congregation are becoming well known by the brethren all over the city of Visakhapatnam. We are happy with the increase in not just the attendance but also the addition of members to the local congregation. Recently a mother and her daughter have been added to the church. They were attending the worship service and mid week bible class and the local minister who also works in the town have been studying with them for 3 months. Finally they made a decision and embraced Christ and be added to the church, the family of God. We rejoiced with them. We are happy to say that the church is growing in number as well as spiritually. 

Mission Work:
Our graduates are putting forth their full energy & time for the evangelism in this part of Andhra Pradesh. Through Bible classes and gospel meetings they are proclaiming the word of God.

The two newly established congregations are gathering every Sunday for worshipping God. Brother David Raju, who is one of our students who recently began ministering of the congregations, is facing problems from the denominational church where he was a member.  Kindly pray that he would be strong and courageous to overcome the problems.

Revelation class is going on very well. One of our faculty, brother Vamsee Bhushanam, has been teaching this class for the last 6 months. This class is helping the students to clear all their doubts and misunderstandings about the book of Revelation. Our graduate, brother Prakash, is arranging this class once a month. From time to time the number of students is increasing for this class. This has become another avenue to give publicity to our school.

We have been hearing from our graduates about their personal Bible studies and how they are progressing. We had one Master’s class student baptized into Christ. He is from a very remote area. He is going to be very influential in that area to bring many to Christ.   

A Hindu Activist:
As you are aware our country is predominantly Hindu. Over 80% of the people belong to Hinduism. These people in our country profess that all the people in India are Hindus by birth. Severity of the religion is very high in some places, especially in the northern part of India. However, there are some places in south India which are called as sensitive places where the severity of the religion is very high because there are some Hindu radicals who deny every religion in India because for them the rest of the religions are foreign religions.

In the times of Jesus, when the gospel was being preached, several radical people were converted and conservative Jews also. Those who harmed and cheated people also embraced Christ. Even those soldiers who spat on him and mocked said, “Truly this one was God’s Son!” We do not know for sure how the widows of the heart of several people are opened; this is what exactly happened when one of our graduates, G. Srinivas, preached in his village which is in Visakha district. This is what we have been pursuing through our Bible School.

Brother Narayana Murthy was an active BJP leader. This is a national party who are very religious and believe that India has no other religion than Hinduism. For them other religions are not considered as local, rather they are foreign.  Mr. Murthy has heard Srinivas’s father proclaiming the word of God. He was attracted to the message and came to the preacher and put forth all his questions about God and the message he heard. Their first conversation ended up with lot of excitement where Murthy wanted Srinivas to visit his house and hold a Bible Study, to everybody’s surprise he began studying the Bible then on. 

Master Class: 
We had a good start with the Master classes. 9 students enrolled in the calls, in fact there were 3 others who missed those classes because of their personal problems; now they wanted to join in the classes. I do not know whether they will be able to or not. We had two classes taught by brother Denton, one is ‘Introduction to the graduate research’ and the second is ‘Advanced Apologetics’. At first it took some time for the students to get connected with the instructor, chief reason is listening the whole class in English. Since English is not our spoken language it is a problem. Only the students who are good at Bible and English vocabulary can understand these classes well. Since these students have a great desire to learn and enhance their knowledge base, they put forth a lot effort to go along with the flow. As a result these students have thoroughly enjoyed these classes. We appreciate brother Denton for his patience with these students, because at times he had to pause if something is not understood correctly by the students.

John Dean the Dean of the School is also enrolled in this class since he wants to help the rest of the students by doing the follow up. All the master class students will be meeting next week to discuss and write down the assignments for the two subjects taught by brother Denton.  

Library:
As we all realize for a successful Bible School, a well furnished library shall have a great impact. Assuredly it is the same with our school, too. With the small donations we are receiving and the books we are receiving from World Evangelism as well the books we are receiving from brethren like Chuck Ramseur and Jerry Bates our library is gradually having an increase in the number of books. Hopefully our meeting again will be well spent in our small library so that all the master class students will finish the assignments successfully. By the way, this is the only source for our Master Class students for doing a healthy research. I hope we shall be blessed with more books as the days go by.

Guests:
Dr. Jack Tucci, the Vice President of academic Affairs, Faulkner University visited with us. We were blessed with his precious visit. He was here a couple of years ago and wanted to see how the work is progressing. He was very anxious to meet the students and faculty to teach his favorite lesson about the history of the city Ephesus. He taught the lesson through a power point slide show. It has all the scenic pictures of the City of Ephesus that describes its wealthiest history, showing the harbor and the great temple of Diana. He presented the history which is relevant for the students who study the epistle to the Romans. His description helped the students to understand the epistle contextually. It was amazing. Our students have really learned so much about and from the epistle through the presentation of Dr. Jack Tucci. 

Brother Jack has admired the school work and encouraged the students to be diligent in learning the word of God and be efficient in proclaiming what they are learning. He appreciated their dedication and commitment to work for the Lord. The kind visits of these brethren are quite an encouragement to all of us. We are hoping to have Dr. David Warren visiting next year. He worked at HCU for a while and now he is working as the professor for ancient Biblical languages at Faulkner University. He really wanted to come this year, but things didn’t work out well. For sure he will be visiting the school next year. We are truly blessed with the relationship we have in Christ through which we are able to work together and encourage each other.

Campaign Week:  
This campaign week ended with a Preacher’s Fellowship in Pydikonda. This is another success story of our school. Preacher’s Fellowship is a mission program that has an objective of increasing the fellowship among the brotherhood in that area also to discuss a Biblical topic that will benefit the preachers as well as the local congregation. This program was lead by one of our faculty, brother Rama Raju. Six preachers spoke on the subject ‘Edification of the Church.’

We are planning for a campaign week at the middle of November in the state of Orissa. We are hoping to establish gospel campaign in that area to invite the believers to go to Bible school and establish a long term relationship with them. We are praying for God to strengthen our faith through which we would continue to reach the unreached millions. Certainly the gospel is to be widely preached in this part of Andhra Pradesh.  

Gospel Tools: (Bibles, Hymn Books, Bicycles, Lanterns) 
We are privileged to distribute these gospel tools for our graduates who are striving for his cause. Thankfully for our graduates, not all but some students, were able receive these tools to use them to proclaim the word of God and building the congregations. With the help of the individual donors they were able to have them. These tools are very useful for the preachers working in remote areas where there won’t be 24 hours of electricity as well as there is no transportation and the facility is very limited. Recently our brother ‘Yosepu’ from Devarapalli area received a bicycle. Indeed it is very helpful for him because he is not able to take care of all his transportation expenses to travel in the hill area to proclaim the word of God. Right now it is raining in their area. When everything settles down we are planning for a one week gospel campaign there. He really wants us to come, he is sort concerned about the safety of us who are going to visit with him. Since his place is in a very remote area, we have to be watchful for mosquitoes which might cause serious health problems. 

Prayer Request:   “I know that after I am gone fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock” Acts 20:29 

Now a days, in our secular country of India, several people are embracing Christianity. It is not making quite a difference in the percentage of Christian religion, however, some religious groups are so worried by seeing the thousands of people who are accepting Jesus as the Savior. These gradual conversions are causing fear in the hearts of those religious people, which is why they want to stir up people by imposing certain laws to threaten the Christians. Unfortunately several of these conversions are into denominational groups. 

Jerry’s Visit: 
Brother Jerry & sister Paula Bates will be visiting us from the 8th to the 15th of September. On the 8th they will be visiting Skinner’s Garden, on the 9th they shall be worshipping at Bikkavolu Church of Christ and on the 10th he will start teaching at Visakha Valley Bible College and leaves on the 15th from Visakhapatnam. He has done a great job teaching the same class to the last batch. Now we are looking forward to his class on ‘Leadership’. 

Thank you note:
We humbly thank you for your kind support for running the Bible College (Preacher Training School) successfully. Without your esteemed help we cannot imagine our self doing this wonderful Lord’s work at Visakhapatnam. We do appreciate your prayers for us. It is really overwhelming to see you brethren encouraging us from the other side of the globe to the rescue the lost souls on this side of this globe. This is just marvelous, and truly the love of God is compelling you all to extend your love in order share the love of God. Kindly convey our (director, students & faculty) heartfelt gratitude to the congregation. This is the reason for this good Bible school program. We appreciate your concern and trust in us. We are certainly thankful to God for His providence too. 

Work Report: 
Number of people baptized in these months through our ministry: 18
Denominational preachers restored: 2
Gospel meetings conducted – 18
Weekend Campaign – 2
Gospel tracts distributed – 24,000
Doors Knocked - 687
Held the Bible n.of Studies - 73
New Congregations Established - 3  

In Christ & His service, 

John Dean & Sameul Raju Muppidi
Skinner's Garden Bible School
Visakha Valley Bible College
Church of Christ
Andhra Pradesh,  INDIA

Celebrating 15 Years Of Training...

Dear brothers, families and churches.

In my letter, I want to share with you some news about the events in BVBIU in August and the beginning of September.

Last month went by under the credo: "We are looking for students; classes are starting soon." I had to make phone calls to different congregations, prospective students and their families. Some cancelled previous arrangements, even though previously they were more than sure that they will study. Others were excited about my phone calls and were looking forward to September 1, which is the beginning of the new school year. In the end, we had 8 first-year students and 7 second-year students. In January, another student from Kramatorsk will join our program.

Thus, we have a total of 15 students. God has blessed us abundantly indeed: out of 15 students, there are 12 men and 3 ladies. The majority of them are young people, whose average age is about 25 years. I hope they made a level-headed choice and will work for God's church in future. Two young men are from western Ukraine, one is from central Ukraine, and others are from Donetsk region. I ask you to pray earnestly for them and their ministry for God in Ukraine.

September 1 was an Orientation Day; students and teachers arrived, and we praised the Lord together, got acquainted, and students moved into their apartments. Classes at the Institute began on Monday, September 3. Right now Albert Bagdasaryan teaches a class on "How we got the Bible" to the first-year students, and Victor Semikoz teaches a class on "Ezra, Nehemaiah, Esther" to the second-year students.

We have another achievement with which you can congratulate both us and yourselves. BVBIU is 15 years old now. It's hard to tell whether it's much or little, but we are eager to continue this work and do our best at it. In 1997 a branch of Bear Valley Bible Institute was founded in Kramatorsk, and the first dean was Buck Hall. Later Terry Harmon succeeded him, and in 2007 the Institute moved to Gorlovka, where we were able to get a wonderful building. Starting with 2010, I served as a dean there.

I thank God and you for the trust you put in me and for your support of our work. I hope there will be times when we would be able to support Christianity where it is necessary. During the years of it's function, the Institute trained about 80 preachers, and some of them are still serving in the Lord's church. Because of these efforts we are still standing in the truth and spreading God's kingdom.

In August, I was able to visit and preach at several congregations: Illovaysk, Kramatorsk and Svyatogorsk. Some churches are going through difficult times, and others are prospering. More than likely it is inevitable in the process of growth and development of the church.

Also in the last month, my family and I participated in VBS, that was held by the Central church of Christ in Gorlovka. There were about 20 kids, and during 4 days we were studying the Bible with them, played, etc. This church has a plan to continue studies with these kids in future.

There is also some news that made me sad. Two second-year students (Nastya and Yura) decided to leave the program. They plan to get married and decided to get a job to secure their future in financial matters.

In the end, I want to thank you again for your work and willingness to help God's work. God bless you.

Your brother and coworker,
Dennis

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

Short Courses Soon Lead To Campaigns In Cameroon...

Dearest in Christ,

Accept greetings from the staff, students and members of the Wotutu congregation. God bless you as you read this report. We do hope you are doing great in health and sound faith. We praise God for you and your family. We are also doing great in our assignments given to us.

This is sister Theresa Abanda in the water pool of baptism putting on Christ. Please keep her in your prayers so that many in her family will see the light of the gospel in her and come follow her.

The students started their short courses and it is already one week old now. We praise God for the short course instructors, brother Robert Prater from Germany and brother Brandon Watson from USA who are with us for one week now and all is well with them and the work here. They have entered the last week of their stay with us to teach in CBIW. Continue to keep them in your prayers.

Brother Brandon Watson preached to the entire community of Wotutu and 5 other villages through our PA system which we call our community radio, but it does not pass through any FM or AM station. The program is urging many to go BACK TO THE BIBLE. The program has helped many who have gained consciousness about the truth and many keep asking questions and come to our congregational programs. The program starts every morning at 4:30 am to 6 am as requested by our keen listeners.

On the 3rd of September the short courses began in CBIW, but before the class on Denominational Doctrines, by brother Brandon, he brought a precious gift to all the staff and students of CBIW, a copy of the handout and a nice tie to make both the students and the staff look great as they handle the word. We keep her in our prayers and we do appreciate her for her love for the work here.

The program for the short courses this quarter has some changes. The normal routine of one instructor teaching the whole week and the other continue the next week was not part of our program this time. Both courses will be taught same day but at different times. The first one, Denominational Doctrines will start from 8 am to 11 am while the students will have chapel and lunch break and the classes will continue from 12 noon to 3 pm. It is working well and we praise God. Brother Prater is teaching the book of Hebrews.

The program continue to cut across the hearts of many. The sister you see in the motor bike stays some reasonable distance away from our church hall, but she listens to us loud and clear and decided to ask many questions to our students as they move from house to house every Saturday to evangelize and also visit. She came and worshiped and finally made a decision. Because of heavy and continuous rainfall these days only a motor bike can get someone to the stream for baptism. Our student Awatt Manfree is always ready to help someone become like us.

Plans
1) This week CBIW students will leave to 17 different communities for campaign house to house. We shall send out married students with their wives again. This will be the last campaign to our students at the end of the quarter, because the last quarter will end on the 15th of December and graduation will follow suit on the 20th of December. So when they return we shall spend some more time on weekend evangelism.

2) There are two virgin areas that we are praying that by His grace two new congregations will be planted there during this campaign and we pray for students to go there after graduation for a full time nurturing and evangelism mission in many places where we have passed there for these two years.

Appreciations
We keep you in our prayers for God to bless you and watch over you for all your love and deep sacrifice for the work here. It is time to go back to school in Cameroon. Many of our children resumed and some will resume this week. Many thanks to you for your prayers and support to make this happen in Wotutu. God bless you and all your endeavors.

Sad News
Minister Efamba Felix of the Kwa-Kwa congregation is dead. This is a man that has been helping our students during campaign in His congregation. That congregation has been accommodating our students since we started. We shall stop there briefly before many of our students will transit from there to their campaign sites. Keep his family in your fervent prayers to God.

Do your best to share this report with others. God bless you.

Elangwe and family

By His grace director CBIW

The Hand Of Our God Has Been Favorable To Us...

There are several reports this week to read, so I will not labor long over other events from the previous week. However, I do want to mention the powerful weekend at the annual Bear Valley Bible Institute staff retreat. The theme of the weekend was The Hand Of Our God Has Been Favorable To Us based on the text of Nehemiah 2:18. The lessons provided an encouraging foundation of how God has blessed His work through the Bear Valley Bible Institute. Another lesson focused on and challenged us to Rise Up and Build and the weekend concluded with a lesson encouraging a call to action, Put Our Hands To The Good Work.

Over the weekend the staff from the Bible Institute in Denver, along with the various staff within the Extension Program came together for a few days to focus on the past year’s progress within the various schools where Bear Valley is privileged to work with some of the greatest men on earth. The event included the wives of these staff members and just over 50 were able to share in the wonderful experience. 

While we enjoyed the various reports and lessons, the weekend also gives us an opportunity to take an afternoon to discuss several areas dealing with how we can improve the overall approach and work of the Bible Institute and Extension Program. The “brain storming” was encouraging as ideas were considered to help improve the structure of the organization and approach to each of the schools and works implemented by graduates.

One final thought about the retreat is worth mentioning. These few days together provide a great forum for each staff member to develop a greater relationship with others who are involved in the overall work. Four new couples were able to attend who are connected in one way or another to the Extension Program. The mutual love for the Lord and His work could not help but be seen in the lives of everyone who attended. We laughed together, cried together, prayed and sang together, all to the glory of our great and awesome God!

We all look forward to this time and next year’s theme already has us anticipating next year.

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/

The most recent news from Steven Ashcraft about the work in West Africa can be found by clicking here.

Extension Reports 

Short Courses Set To Begin In Cameroon: Short course instructors have arrived and are ready to begin their classes. The work began with preaching for the local congregation.

A New Class Begins In Cambodia: Excitement is high as a new class of nine students begin their preparations in the word of God in Siem Reap.

Church Updates Show Progress: With all the challenges in Chimala, various updates from the local congregations continue to show progress.

Committee Planning The School In Paraguay: The diligence of the church in Paraguay is preparing for next year’s first class in the Theological Academy of Paraguay.

Students Preaching Out In Uganda: As the students gain confidence in their training the fruit of their labors among local congregations is being seen.

Two Arrive And One Leaves The Work In Arusha: The powerful nature of the work in Arusha is found in the number of those who love to visit and share in the great work.

A Census and A “Do-Over” In Tanzania: A recent census in Arusha, Tanzania had the Gee family thinking TIA, but there is also incredible news to read. 

Final Thoughts
First, I would like to thank all the men and women who traveled to Denver to share in the retreat. There is no doubt in my mind everyone came away from the retreat uplifted about the ways God has blessed us in this work. Second, I want to thank all of you who read the report and continue praying for the development of training preachers around the world. Third, I want to express appreciation to each individual and congregation who has a vision for Extension Training. Your vision for the work is demonstrated in the sacrifices you make to help the financial needs of the work. So much is being done and there is so much to do, but thanks to everyone who is part of this team effort, God is blessing our work to His glory.

God bless
Bob

A Census And A "Do-Over" In Tanzania...

Dear Fellow Workers,

QUOTE OF THE WEEK: "One man with courage makes a majority." --Andrew Jackson 

"BLESSED BE THE DEAD WHO DIE IN THE LORD...so that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow with them." (Rev. 14:13) Elizabeth McCutchen, whom we became acquainted with at Zachary Church of Christ in Zachary, LA passed from this life yesterday. She was one of the nicest people we have ever known. Elizabeth and her sister, Maxine, were quiet a pair and we enjoyed many laughs with them! As a strong and generous supporter of our TZ work, Elizabeth was an encourager and quietly did her good deeds. We know her family will remember her with joy and she will be missed greatly. 

NO HURRY IN AFRICA: Last Sunday we returned home quickly to await the census takers (in Swahili, the "sensa"). About 5 pm, a "sensa" worker asked us to remain at home tomorrow morning (Monday) until 8 am until the person came to count us. Two days later, on Wednesday, a census worker arrived and recorded our names, ages and our country of origin. A few days later someone else from the census office came, not knowing we had already been counted. At the risk of sounding cynical, we don't expect this census to be real accurate. 

LET'S SCRATCH IT AND START ALL OVER AGAIN: Another government issue concerns the residency permits.  All resident permits have been cancelled and everyone is being asked to reapply all over again and turn in all new documents. Can anyone spell F-U-N?  ha/ha 

NEW CONVERTS CLASS: Approximately 15 people listened as Jimmy taught concerning the memorization of Scripture as a help to have the Bible in our minds. Two new converts (Rehema and Nice), along with their families, will be moving this week to Kikatiti (near Usa River) to work on a farm. Lindsey and Abigail are especially disappointed these two young girls (early twenties, this is young in TZ) are leaving our neighborhood. However, jobs in Kisongo are scarce and people must eat. Jimmy has already looked into getting them in communication with the local congregation.

NO TRANSLATER, NO CLASS: Paulina's mother, recovering from eye surgery, became very sick last night and Paulina was not able to be at services today and translate for Trina. Lord willing, the Ladies class will resume studying Genesis next Sunday when Paulina returns. The ladies joined the men's class where Ahimidiwe continued his study of the book of Acts (and also preached). Stuart counted 99 in worship today.

KISONGO BIBLE SCHOOL begins the 2nd quarter tomorrow. Classes offered will be "Introduction to the Bible, Part II" (taught by Jimmy), "The book of Job," "Matthew," "Bible Geography," "Reading and Writing Swahili" and "English." Because flyers were posted around town advertising the English class, a lady came inquiring about them and stayed for Bible class today.

KENYA SCHOOL OF PREACHING: Forgive us if this sounds weird, but the TZ 2000 Mission Work reminds us of an old horror movie called "The Blob" (maybe an episode of "The Twilight Zone") which was viewed when young (keep reading before you cancel your support ...ha/ha). If you saw the movie you will recall this big rubbery-liquid black "blob" going all through town growing bigger and bigger as it traveled, affecting everyone in its path. No one could control it or stop it because it had a mind of its own. The bigger it became, the more powerful it was. In a strange sort of way, we see similarities to the growth of the TZ 2000 Mission Work here in East Africa! It is exciting news that, sponsored by the Charlotte Avenue church of Christ in Rock Hill, SC, the Kenya School of Preaching is scheduled to open its doors in October! This school is the result of the efforts of Bear Valley Bible Institute, Mike Reese, Keith Kasarjian and the Charlotte Avenue elders. Charles Ogutu, valedictorian graduate of the ACSOP class of 2007, will be the director of this school. And, almost all instructors scheduled to teach are ACSOP graduates. We believe we can safely claim that this type of growth was beyond anyone's expectations. To God be the glory that a graduate would help establish a preaching school in another country so soon after graduation.

ACSOP STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: Isaac Richard Mwangonde, a Master's student, is married to a Christian, and has three girls. After growing up in a Presbyterian family with an alcoholic, polygmous father, Isaac was honored as the valedictorian when he graduated with his B.A. several years ago. While his home congregation is in Mbeya (southern TZ), he preaches about 60 km from there at a new church plant consisting of two members. Isaac was taught the Gospel in Malawi during his secondary schooling when a member of the church visited and distributed tracts. This church member was also allowed to teach Bible to the students. Isaac was baptized in September of 1985. "Greek" was his favorite undergraduate course and "Criticism of the Old and New Testaments" were his favorite post-graduate classes. Isaac loves the ACSOP library facilities.

LET NO ONE DESPISE THY YOUTH: Lindsey and Abigail recently left to conduct their regular Sunday studies at the homes of Grace and Nice today. As their mother, Trina is more than thrilled at their maturity and love of lost souls at such a young age. All four older girls also enjoy preparing meals for new mothers or people with sickness in their families (and had occasion to do so twice this past week). Speaking of Nice, a former Muslim, she changed her Muslim name to "Nice" when she joined the Pentecostal church. Thankfully, she is a New Testament Christian in the church that Christ purchased (but doesn't need to change her name again).

KARIBU (welcome) ... to Adam Miller (returning worker) and newcomer Scott Baggett who arrived this past week! They have been doing campaign follow-up work in Kwa Mrombo. Today they worshipped in Moshi where they will work for the rest of the week. We appreciate their hard work and dedication to the church in Tanzania.

THE ANNUAL TANZANIA LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE is scheduled for October of this year. The Bible character/topic assigned to Trina was "Abigail" and her contribution to the Kingdom. She is looking forward to learning more about her through study and teaching the ladies about her life and characteristics so we may emulate her strength and courage. 

"May the Lord of peace Himself continually grant you peace in every circumstance. The Lord be with you all!"  2 Thess. 3:16. Thank you for your support! 

In Christian Love, 
The Jimmy Gee family

Two Arrive And One Leaves The Work In Arusha...

Greetings Fellow Workers,

We continue in prayer on your behalf, trusting the Lord is blessing you as you bless the lives of others. We thank you for your prayers on our behalf. God is answering in a grand way.

Today was a special day in the fact we were blessed with the opportunity to worship with our brother and sisters in Christ at Moshi. Adam Miller taught a powerful lesson from the book of Titus and Scott Baggett preached a lesson that drew our attention to the love of God, the great sacrifice of Christ and our need for salvation found only in Christ.

Adam and Scott worked with our brother Charles Heberth at Kwa Mrombo Friday and Saturday. One soul was restored and another added to the Church by our Lord. We are blessed beyond measure by such men who come and partner with us in the “seeking and saving of the lost.” Adam and Scott will work with Josephat and others in Moshi this week. Please remember them and their efforts in your daily prayers this week.

I received a short note from our brother Gasper today sharing the good news of one soul being added to the Kingdom at the new church plant at Kamba ya Chui. God continues to give the increase as His faithful servants continue to serve Him. We are indeed grateful for the privilege we are so richly blessed with, being able to work with such godly men.

One such man is David Bayi, the evangelist working with the Kioga congregation. When David was a student at the Andrew Connally School of Preaching the need for a new church plant was presented to the class. He volunteered to walk up Mt. Meru three miles every Sunday and Wednesday was in school and continues today. This congregation began meeting in a small 6 X 8 foot goat shed and today is a congregation of over 100 souls. Yes, with God all things are possible.

Please remember David in your prayers, he is battling malaria and typhoid and is very ill.

We also ask that you remember Caitlin Middleton in your prayers as she begins her journey home tomorrow after a three month stay here in TZ. She was very active, doing much good while here. Several have obeyed the Gospel through her teachings and many more have been touched by her efforts. We say thank you to her parents for “a job well done.” May our Lord bless His Church with many more young people like our sister Caitlin, a “doer of the Word.”

In closing, please remember Stephanie, Granny and I as we travel to Nairobi to take Caitlin to the airport, and for me to meet with 18 evangelist from the Nairobi area. My purpose will be to meet and get to know these fellow workers and to share with them the good being done at the ACSOP. As we continue in our recruiting of faithful men, training them in the Word, and sending them out to be God’s instruments for the good, so that East Africa and the world,  have hope!

In Him, Cy, Stephanie, Granny & Caitlin

Students Preaching Out In Uganda...

Dear brethren,

It has been a good day here in Busia. The Lord is continuing to bless us. The Uganda School of Evangelism will be ending its long course on the 20th of September 2012.  The churches here where our students visit have started picking up and there is hope of growth. 

Joel Kizoto and Edwin Mang'eni are now riding their bikes from school to Bukalikha church of Christ and many people who had stopped attending church service are now coming. Andrew Wanyama is now going to Haboomi and they have reported that the church have grown from 10 to 14 attendance. John Macho, our graduate from Kenya, is working with Genguluho church of Christ in Namayingo District and the attendance there has also grown from 11 people to 18 attending every Sunday. Ema and Edith are also reporting that the Namungodi church of Christ has also started having some restorations. 

We need your prayers so that these brethren may have places of worship. May the Lord bless you all as you serve Him. 

Yours
Francis, Margaret, Paul, Susan and Edith Mawa Wechesa

Committee Planning The School In Paraguay...

Good morning brethren! 

I pray this finds all of you in the grace and peace of our Father.

It brings me great joy this morning to provide you with an update to the development of the Bible school here in Paraguay. The men of the congregation have appointed a committee that meets twice a week to work out the development of the school. For the past several weeks, they have prayed, labored in thought, and discussed in great detail as to what the mission statement of the school should be. They want it to be very clear, Biblical, and concise in order to properly develop all other aspects of the school. Last night, they decided on the following mission statement:

"Nutrir el corazon de hermanos fieles con las palabras de la fe y la buena doctrina, en amor, para que sean capaces de cumplir con el mandato de nuestro Señor Jesucristo" (Mateo 28:19,20 y 1 Timoteo 4:6).

Translated directly: "Nurturing the heart of faithful brethren with words of the faith and the good doctrine, in love, so that they may be capable to fulfill the mandate of our Lord Jesus Christ" (Mt. 28:19-20; 1 Tim. 4:6).

They believe this transmits the proper idea that they want to accomplish within the school. I, personally, am very pleased with the focus they have and with maturity they have exhibited in developing this mission statement. They simply want to be pleasing to the Lord, actively working in His kingdom, but not go outside the boundaries of His commandments. What a great understanding!

In addition to this great news, I also want to inform you that the elders at Palm Beach Lakes church of Christ in West Palm Beach, FL have agreed to be what we call, the "Stateside Financial Administrators" for the school. They have agreed to the commitment of being involved in this work of the church in Paraguay by simply maintaining stateside contributions, regular communication with the church, and traveling to Paraguay at times in order to assist. Another great blessing!

Things are coming together, brethren! Most importantly, the Paraguayans themselves are developing this school in the form that they desire. To God be the glory! 

Have a blessed day!
Troy Spradlin

Church Updates Show Progress...

Let's Start Talking Party
As you know, we have a group here from the Let's Start Talking program. The group comes from Texas. They teach English using the Bible. They recently had a 'party' for their readers. Anna was a leader at the party leading the activity, "Hokey Pokey." Of course, none of the Africans had ever done the hokey pokey. It was quite fun to watch.

We have received word that our shipping container has arrived in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania off the ship and awaiting all of the final approval of paperwork. We are hoping to have our container on Monday of next week. We are praying that our house gets finished painted before our furniture arrives.

Area Churches of Christ Update
Lyambogo Church of Christ got new benches. They had some but they number of local kids filled all of the benches. It is good to have extra room to fill those benches! 

We visited the Mbuyuni Church of Christ on Sunday Morning. We took along with us Don and Sue Logsdon, the LST group, and our family. So, when we all got there, we filled the building with 'mzungus' and natives! 

The Gospel Meeting at the Tukuyu Church of Christ resulted in five baptisms. 

The Gospel Chariot was in Ubaruku this past week with lessons each day on the Church of Christ. I visited the meeting on Friday. While there were many people there at the meeting, there was many more out a ways from the actual meeting. They could hear easily because the truck carries loud speakers so there was quite a crowd. I am also proud of all of the area congregations which came together all week to support the meeting in Ubaruku. There was one baptism on Friday. There were several people who signed up for Bible Studies.

We attended the Mission Church of Christ yesterday. 

Secondary School Update
In March of this year, the secondary school at the mission suffered a serious blow when fire took a large portion of the school girl's dormitory. There were no injuries, but the dorm was seriously damaged. We have worked diligently to restore the building to be able to house students again.  You can see the updated pictures in our report site. The bunk beds are currently being built and are scheduled to be completed by the time the secondary school girls return to school on September 9.

The primary and secondary school is currently on school break for a national census where everyone is to return to their homes to be counted. 

Wagner Family Update
We are settling into our lives here in Chimala fairly well. We are suffering some 'cultural stresses' due to the differences we experience here, but all-in-all, things are going well. Jonah has discovered a new natural talent for science!

A few of us went to Matema Beach on Saturday with the LST group. I have traveled to several places and I think that the drive south from Mbeya to the Malawi border is one of the best in the world. The road down to the Malawi border was nice, but when we turned off the road to head to the beach - the road was ROUGH! We had a few obstacles as well.

When we finally arrived, the beach was fantastic. Lake Malawi is a large inland lake which has fresh water. This is the lake which is the point of contention between Malawi and Tanzania. Tanzania claim half of the lake, but Malawi claims the entire lake. The problem arose when they discovered oil and gas under the lake. The question became - who owns the resources? There was discussion of war between the two countries, but both country's leaders have assured everyone that there will be nothing like that.  

The beach itself is fantastic. There were a few tourists there but it was mostly open. We had lunch at the Lutheran Mission center at Matema Beach. We ate chicken and chips. There is also a large problem at the front gate of the mission. I'm just glad it's not our container!

Chad Wagner 

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

A New Class Begins In Cambodia...

Greetings from the church in Siem Reap!

I am very happy to write some of my thoughts in here and to be able to know that there are people who cares about this work as much as I do. I appreciate all of you who come by every now and again to see how we are doing here in Siem Reap. 

After graduation, we normally take a month off for students to go home and for the staff to rest for a bit. Our 2012-2014 school year will commence on Sept 3rd. We have 9 new students confirmed as of right now but we expect a few more late comers. We are excited about the upcoming school year and new minds to mold by the word of God. 

Yesterday, I called a leadership meeting to discuss the present and future work of Siem Reap. We had a fruitful 2 hour meeting to revisit our goals and plans to be the example church of the third world country. We are taking small steps to becoming autonomous and I am so glad to be a part of this movement. We want to be the church that's found in the Bible, doing Bible things by Bible ways, and autonomy is one of those things! I am glad to see that we have a core who believe in this and are willing to sacrifice to see it happen. 

We ask that you continue to keep us in your prayers as we strive to be the church that's found in the New Testament! Please come by next month to see our new students and check out our new school's curriculum! See you next time. Below is our teaching schedule for the 1st quarter, you can find the rest at the "school" button on our website.

1ST YEAR 1ST QUARTER
Sept 3rd- Oct 12th
8:00-8:45 How to Study the Bible- Phanat
9:00-9:45 Genesis- Darat
10:00-10:20 Chapel
10:30-11:15 Matthew- Phanat
11:30-12:45 LUNCH
1:00-1:45 Rosetta Stone English Course- Chann
2:00-5:00 Vocational Training/Volunteer/Work/School 

Oct 15th- Nov 23rd
8:00-8:45 How We Got the Bible- Phanat
9:00-9:45 Exodus-Darat
10:00-10: 20 Chapel
10:30-11:15 Mark-Darat
11:30-12:45 LUNCH
1:00-1:45 Rosetta Stone English Course- Chann
2:00-5:00 Vocational Training/Volunteer/Work/School 

Phanat

Short Courses Set To Begin In Cameroon...

Dearest in Christ,

Accept greetings from the staff, students and members of the Wotutu congregation. How are you all? We do hope you are doing great in all that you do for the Lord. We are doing great here and rain is still on here seriously.

The students of CBIW finished their long courses exams without any problem. They are set for the short courses starting this week and will take them two weeks as they will just transit to their campaign in 17 different villages and one among those villages will be for a new work to start. Please keep that vision in your prayers.

God answered our prayers as we prayed for the safe arrival of our short course instructors. Minister Brandon Michael Watson from Greenville, Texas, is a youth and family minister in his congregation. Keep him in your prayers for this is his first time to come over to Africa. He was taught during our adult Bible class today.

We also appreciate God for taking some students out for weekend evangelism and their safe return on campus, getting ready to start their short courses tomorrow.

Minister Robert Prater, a long time missionary in the African continent, but based now in Germany, came to teach in CBIW the book of Hebrews. We shall benefit lots from his experiences in the field for years. Keep him in your prayers to be safe, healthy and to accomplish his mission here.

Brother Prater preached for the Wotutu congregation during our Sunday worship. His sermon “Making Your Calling Worthy” was great as 7 first time visitors benefited.

As the youth and family minister in his home congregation, the children in our congregation naturally saw that spirit in Brandon. Without being told many of them jumped up to his body after worship as it is part of our practices to always greet one another and embrace them at the end of our worship.

The young congregation in Mbanga is moving ahead as the young converts (7 of them) received a copy of the Bible both in French and English, but this is a French speaking community. Keep the work in your prayers so that as we continue to penetrate the hearts of many with the saving message.

Plans
1) Keep the students in your prayers as the start short courses tomorrow.

2) Keep the village of Menji in Lebialem division as we plan to take the gospel there. It will be the first time the church of Christ will be there to preach. It is a vast community, that if we succeed to establish a congregation there, then the gospel will spread like wild fire to the other communities.

3) The Batoke work is still on the pipe line. Keep it in your prayers.

Appreciations
Many thanks to God for using us the way that fits Him to accomplish His work here in Cameroon. Our sincere thanks goes to you for your great prayers and support to make this work. Thanks and God bless your endeavors in life through this week and always. Do your best to share this report with others around you. God bless you as you do so.

Elangwe and family
By His grace Director CBIW

Extension Schools Are Growing The Kingdom...

A number of reports this week share information about the current efforts of training men to preach around the world. A few of them discuss recent campaign work where a number of souls obeyed the gospel. The news is so exciting as men who are trained in their own language go out and teach the gospel to their own people. As the program continues to grow, more souls will be touched with the power of the good news.

We serve an incredible God. I wish sometimes there was enough space to share the ways He has blessed the lives of each individual within the Extension program, or even personally. However, space and time would not permit. Suffice it to say the news we could all share is worthy of the joy God has given to us through His son, Jesus.

Classes continue to go well in Denver as the new class of 13 students make their way through their first quarter of studies. They are doing well and it is exciting to have an opportunity to share in teaching them about God’s word. They are a very mature group of students and seem to have a drive to learn and prepare themselves to take the gospel to the lost.

This week nearly all the extension staff, along with the staff in Denver, will come together for the weekend to discuss the past year of work in the Extension program and the Denver campus, as well talk about plans for the future. We hope to examine areas where we need to be working to improve and develop a greater approach. We will discuss the various problems that exist and how we are going to address these areas. At the same time, we will dream about the future and what God will do through us as we seek to please Him.

Please pray for all who will be traveling and the purpose for which we are coming together. May God be glorified through the work being done. 

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 

Students Prepare For Final Exams In Cameroon: Another quarter draws to an end and students are about to take their final exams. Short courses will begin the following week.

Graduation And The Future In Cambodia: The second class of students recently graduated in Cambodia. As they enter the field to work the future looks bright.

Campaigns Helping The Work Grow In Togo: A recent campaign near Kpalime, Togo shows how successful the work is for the students at the Center For Biblical Studies.

Student Involvement Produces Fruit In Honduras: The students in Danli, Honduras are showing the fruit of their labors in reaching the lost.

East Africa Gospel Meeting Is Fruitful: A number of congregations came together for a powerful Gospel meeting and 12 obeyed the gospel. 

An Hour A Day...Keeps The Devil Away: How important is studying the Bible? This week’s report from the Gee family explains, along with much more news from Tanzania. 

Final Thoughts
Thank you all for the generosity and sacrifice you are willing to make for the development of this work. There is much work ahead, but we know our God is great and He will bless our efforts for the cause of Christ. In fact, He already has through each of you. You are truly a blessing to my life and the lives of so many others on this earth. Somehow it just seems heaven will be a little sweeter because of the souls who will be there as a result of your efforts.

God bless
Bob

East Africa Gospel Meeting Is Fruitful...

Dear brethren,

We have not sent this report on time because we were away from Busia as from 6th August 2012 to 15th August, and when we came back we had some problem with power at our home in Busia. 

East Africa Gospel meeting was held in Mwanza. When we were planning to leave for Mwanza, brother Mose Orora a preacher of the church of Christ died on 4th August and was supposed to be buried on 7th August. Moses was a member of Babadogo church of Christ in Nairobi before he joined East Africa School of Biblical Studies in Kampala where he graduated in 2010. From School he decided to go back to his village in Kisii, Kenya and planted a congregation. The congregation was still very young and he was the only person with a Biblical education and for that reason his burial could be taken over by the friendly denominations which would give a bad image for the gospel of our Lord and his church. We requested his family to hold on his burial until we finish the Mwanza gospel meeting so that the team from Nairobi and Uganda would help with the burial. They agreed with us and his body taken to the mortuary until 13th August and we went and buried him on 14th August. 

The meeting in Mwanza went very well. 23 congregations attended from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Congo. In the morning after breakfast we went in groups of 3 to 4 people house to house. The total people who attended were 60 in number. After lunch we went for the seminar in the church building that is from 2 to 4:30 daily and then went outside in the church compound to preach using public address system for whoever could hear. I was the one preaching for four days, from Wednesday to Saturday. 12 people were baptized during these days and many will be, as brother Kusupa Isack and Elias are doing the follow up. 

The next gospel meeting will be in Nyahururu, Kenya on the 12th August 2013 God willing. We pray that more people attend. Continue praying for us so that the gospel meeting continues to be there until Jesus comes again. 

Yours
Francis, Margaret, Paul, Susan and Edith Mawa Wechesa

Students Prepare For Final Exams In Cameroon...

Dearest in Christ,

Accept greetings from the staff, students and members of the Wotutu congregation. We do hope you, your family and the entire church is fine.

The past week in CBIW went on well and God is blessing our efforts to prepare men to preach the saving message and also to evangelize our world to win souls for His kingdom.

One of our students, Eddie Samuel, was happy to exhort a brother who came to the campus to ask question after listening to our Back to the Bible early morning program.

Brother Napoleon obeyed the gospel in Wotutu congregation. For the past weeks we are witnessing lots of obedience from the young class of people. We pray these young people will penetrate their respective families with the truth and many will obey.

This weekend students went out to young congregations for nurturing. They all return with pleasant news about the growth of the work. The youngest congregation in Mbanga keeps experiencing growth as many will open their doors in that community to listen and ask reasonable questions about their beliefs.

The long courses are coming to an end as we start writing the third quarter exams tomorrow. Keep the students in your prayers.

Through the Wotutu congregation, the leaders and the staff of CBIW started the distribution of the Teacher’s Bible in Cameroon. This is a project of brother Roger Dickson in the Africa International Mission based in South Africa. The distribution goes to only preachers of the gospel and many do appreciate the great work that the brother has accomplished.

Next week Monday, the 3rd of September, all schools in Cameroon will resume. This period is the most difficult period in Cameroon as parents are struggling to see how their children will go back to school. The orphans in our congregation and the underprivileged keep their eyes on God again this year for help if they must go back to school. 

Plans
1) We shall welcome two short courses instructors this week, one from Germany a long standing missionary in Europe and Africa, brother Prater, and brother Watson, from the USA, who are coming to help train men to preach the gospel. Keep them in your prayers for safe travels.

2) We are preparing to carry out another campaign with few students to a virgin area in Lebialem division, which is a big town and the heart of Roman Catholic denomination. The gospel is for all, so keep us in your prayers as we make plans to exploit and expose the kingdom of darkness.

3) After the short courses we shall send out students to 17 different villages for campaign.

Appreciations
We thank God for helping us with all our endeavors and also you for availing yourself for God to use you as part of our work here. God bless you and watch over you.

Do your best to share this news with others.

Elangwe and family
By His grace director CBIW