God's Great Blessings In Ukraine...

Every time I start writing reports about the work that was done, I come to understand how great God’s blessings are. Sometimes the “walls” might seem too high and almost impossible to overcome, but when looking at those difficulties after a while, you can see that God is Almighty. We used to pray for a building for the Institute, and now we have it. We wanted more faithful and committed students, and now we have them too. We can overcome any obstacle with God’s help, and we have to believe in that.

Classes at the Institute resumed on November 12 after a week of the Fall Break. This month first-year students had the following courses: Godhead, Satan and angels (Vitaliy Rodichev), Genesis (Victor Semikoz), and the second-year students studied Acts (Vladimir Paziy) and 1 and 2 Thessalonians (Dennis Sopelnik). All students are very active in learning God’s Word, and there are several of them who get the best grades. I hope that the sound doctrine, which they learn here, will help them in their work at the local congregations. 

Recently, one of our graduates, Dennis Petrov, started helping with the worship services at Dokuchayevsk Church of Christ (Donetsk region). We went there together, and it was obvious that the church needed sound and wise leadership. That’s another proof that tells us how important it is to train diligently a good minister to do the work for God. I urge you to pray for that congregation and ask God to provide for further ministry there. 

Several students and I also visited the Church of Christ in Dzerzhinsk. We came there at the time when their preacher wasn’t there so we had to lead the whole worship. Brethren from the US, who support this church, are doing a great job reaching out for the lost souls and having annual Christian camps. I think that we will continue helping this congregation, meanwhile providing our students with some experience in preaching and taking on a responsibility. 

In November, I was preaching in Gorlovka and Dzerzhisk. Churches in Ukraine are still in need of our prayers. Of course we want to see more baptisms and more faithful Christians, but we never know when God is going to give the increase. Two weeks ago, another soul was added to the Central Church of Christ in Gorlovka. Her name is Vera, and she is a step-mother of Veronika Zhuravlyova (a wife of the preacher Andrew Zhuravlyov). It’s a first baptism here in the last year and a half. The Lord keeps adding the saved people to the church. 

Talking about the church, we also often think about the future generations. The Word of God teaches us to prepare children and train them in having the faithfulness and love for the Lord. Recently my wife and I started visiting the orphanage for the children of the low social level, and their age is 9-10 years. Of course, we can’t help all the children, but we wanted to start working with this group. We’ve already had several Bible classes, and those kids are getting used to us. The state doesn’t provide them with enough support, and often they don’t have enough school accessories, clothes and personal hygiene items. We are thankful to our brothers from the US (Jeff Abrams, John Kachelman and others) who find finances to help these children. 

All students send you their greetings and express their gratitude for your faithfulness and support of this ministry.

My family also thanks every one of you personally for your participation in our common cause.

God bless you and your ministry for Him abundantly. 

Your brother and co-worker,
Dennis Sopelnik

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

Nearing The End Of The Alpha Class...

Dearest in Christ,

Greetings from the brothers and sisters here in Wotutu. It is great for us to relate what made news in CBIW. We do hope this report finds you in good health and sound faith.

It was great in our worship today as we were surprised by the students of CBIW. Today was just the last Sunday for the current students to worship with us as they will leaving school to their different locations for full time permanent work in January 2013. They donated a new pulpit stand to the Wotutu congregation as a sign of their own appreciation for the care and love shown to them throughout these two years.

Our programs in CBIW went on well. Brother James Coker finished his course on the Pastoral Epistles and traveled back to the USA. He made it home safe, while brother Josh Austin, the coordinator, came and is doing fine with the course on Marriage and Family. After the class on Saturday, because we are taking the class down to Saturday to meet up with time, some students went to 4 locations to nurture and preach in our young congregations. All of them returned safe as of now we praise God for and we thank you for your continuous prayers. 

The picture on the left is brother Josh in Class, teaching the course Marriage and Family. It is a great course that will go a long way to strengthen families, because we have strong families then the church equally will be strong.

Brother Josh taught Bible class this morning, on Marriage and Family, to help those who were not in the normal school hours to also benefit from it. It was great as 141 people were in attendance. Our group continues to expand. Keep this work in your prayers.

The leaders of the Wotutu congregation, with the students of CBIW, met for their last meeting. The meeting was well planned to meet up with the coordinator so that they can give their advices to the students as they are ready to face the world.

Plans
1) This Wednesday, we shall all move to the last campaign for the year in Douala French speaking area for the annual lectureship. Keep us in your prayers that we shall travel safe and God will use us to make known His name to many.

2) Our first graduation ceremony will be next week on the 20th of December 2012. Please keep that in your prayers. The same day we shall also have the second matriculation of 25 new students who will start their studies for two years starting this January 2013. Keep us and this work in your prayers. Thanks for being part of the work. 

Appreciations
On behalf of the staff, students and members of the Wotutu congregation. We thank you for all that you have done to make our ministry get to this level. You are in our prayers and we pray God to be with you and help you in all that you do for His glorification. Do your best to share this with others.

Prayer Request
Please keep my wife in your prayers, for it is one week now since she delivered. She is sick. The baby is doing fine, but she is not sound.

Elangwe and family
By His grace director of CBIW

Planning For 2013...

With only a few weeks left in 2013, a number of us are looking to the year ahead and making plans connected to the specific goals we want to achieve. Within the Extension Program we are looking to achieve goals on an individual school basis and for the overall program. We are truly living in an exciting time as the year end report indicated last week. If you have not read through that report, I urge you to take a look at the information provide by Keith Kasarjian. 

Each week we want to share with you more of the plans we are working on to achieve the goals of the Bear Valley Bible Institute. These plans are only possible because of the dedicated Christians who are involved at every level in the extension work. We are thankful for the overseeing congregations we partner with to train God’s faithful to share the message of Jesus Christ around the world. We are also thankful for the privilege of working beside the administration at each extension location. Our desire is to align our plans with theirs as we move into the year(s) ahead.

 Our requests to you, as you read this report, involve the following: 

1) Continue to pray for the staff of the Extension Program, as well as, the overall work as we move forward. 

2) Share each week’s report with others who are interested in joining us in this effort. If you will send their e-mail address we will add them to the weekly list.

3) If you are working with a congregation that is involved in a specific mission point, and they might be ready to take a step toward training men to preach in that area, we would love an opportunity to visit with you about how we could work together in greater ways to reach their mission goals.

4) We also need financial partners who are willing to share in providing for the costs of preparing students to go into fields that are “white for the harvest” to preach the gospel message to their own people.

Please consider how you can partner with us in this noble effort of training the faithful of God to fulfill the Great Commission.

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 

Lessons From The Pastoral Epistles: James Coker, a visiting instructor, is in Cameroon teaching 1 & 2 Timothy, and Titus as the CBIW prepares for graduation.

Growing Prospects In Togo: The Center for Biblical Studies is looking to grow the program through several prospects.

Adjusting To Life On The Mission: The Wagner report this week shares day to day information of how their family is adjusting to the work at the Chimala Mission.

“Searching For Truth” In Ki-Swahili: The World Video Bible School has published Searching for Truth for the work in Tanzania in the Ki-Swahili language. 

Final Thoughts
Each report is such a joy to read and the blessings God continues to provide through the beautiful men and women of God around the world is exciting. The thrill of planting and watering the seed is heightened when seeing our God give the increase. Thank you for being a part of this work. Thank you for making it possible.

God bless
Bob

"Searching For Truth" In Ki-Swahili...

Greetings Fellow Workers:

It is with hearts of mixed emotions we write this report. We are hours away from leaving Tanzania to begin our furlough. We will miss the work, our coworkers, friends and family. We have much to be thankful for and you, our supporters, are at the top of that list. We thank God for His grace, mercy and love manifested in this work through the love of countless brothers and sisters.

The work continues to bring forth much spiritual fruit. The printed page and other means of media are multiplying our efforts on a grand scale. One example is the “Searching for Truth” evangelist book put out by World Video Bible School. We have been the recipients of so much sound biblical material from them. The recent translation of this SFT book will have a powerful impact on the lives of countless souls. We are expecting the arrival of over 5,000 copies in Ki-Swahili by the end of this month.

We have also received 1,000 copies of the DVD that goes with the SFT book. As I write this Short Report, Charles Heberth (the one who translated the book into Ki-Swahili), Isaac and Makunde, Anita Hochdorf,  and Sean’s parents are at a local Christmas fair manning a booth and giving away the DVD’s. We pray God will give the harvest! 

We strongly encourage you check out World Video and see all the sound material available at: WVBS.org - Thank you all who serve at WVBS and for the good you are doing around the world. Thank you all who participated and donated funds to bring this soul saving project to fruition.

We are also very thankful for all the efforts Stephanie, Anita and Trina do in the training of the Christian ladies in how to teach. Yesterday, Anita, Allie, Neema, Jane and others went to Manyire to teach the ladies how to teach. The turn out was good, the ladies were edified and the work continues. 

Next week our coworkers begin arriving for the “Future Preacher’s Training Camp” and the “Tanzania Youth Camp.” We are so very grateful for Ben Thompson, John Rice, Burt Fuller and others who help us help the Lord’s church here in TZ. Through these efforts many come to know God as their Savior, while others learn how to serve in the Kingdom. Thank you all and thank you to all who support them in their labors.

We close with hearts full of gratitude and joy. We are blessed beyond measure and through your continued prayers and God’s power, we have only just begun. 

We are sending out a “Thanksgiving Challenge” (see letter below). Much progress has been made toward our goal/need and we thank God and everyone who has helped make a difference. There is much to do, so, please consider the “Challenge” and pass it along to others who have a heart of service and for lost souls.

In Him, Cy, Stephanie, Granny & Allie 

Tanzania, East Africa Mission Effort
November 15, 2012

The Tanzania, East Africa Mission effort began on July, 1998 under the oversight of the Kensington Woods church of Christ in Hattiesburg, MS. A 20 year plan was developed which included:

1. Strengthening the existing congregations in Arusha and Moshi, Tanzania.
2. Establish Bible schools in Arusha and Moshi and conduct a Safari for Souls campaign each summer to help mature the two congregations as well as assist in evangelizing two cities with populations in excess of 2 million souls. 
3. Establish a school of preaching in Arusha to train Africans to become Gospel preachers.
4. Assist the newly trained Gospel preachers to return to their villages in Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda & Democratic Republic of Congo in establishing churches of Christ.

After 15 years of faithful mission effort by countless individuals and congregations, so much has been accomplished. The Andrew Connally School of Preaching has graduated over 100 evangelists from four countries in the two-year in-resident program. These men are now serving congregations throughout East Africa. More than 150 new congregations have been established, hundreds of East Africans are obeying the Gospel each year and leadership training is taking place continuously. The young people have such a love for God; therefore, a Future Preacher Training camp was started six years ago and is now filled to capacity. We have just completed the translation of the entire Searching for Truth into the native tongue of Ki-Swahili through the efforts of World Video Bible School. We are also working on translating the New Testament. This will enable each of these groups to study and gain an understanding of Gods’ Word in his own language.

Much has been accomplished, but there remains much to be done. The recession in the U.S. has had a major impact on many of our financial supporters; however, despite the recession there still remains a pressing need to evangelize East Africa. Currently, there are approximately 50 congregations and 65 individuals supporting these mission efforts.

How can you help?

1. You can pray daily for the souls in East Africa to have the opportunity to hear and obey the Gospel as we have been charged in Matt 28:19.
2. You can contribute to the immediate need of $25,000 for operational and student expenses to complete the 2012 efforts.
3. You can commit to congregational, family or individual support through a one time and/or monthly contribution for 2013 and beyond so that this work may continue. 

Funds may be sent to:

Elders
Kensington Woods church of Christ
415 S. 40^th Ave
Hattiesburg, MS 39402

I ask that as your leadership, your families, and you, as individuals, sit down and pray about your decisions regarding charitable donations for the next year, you will consider this work and become a partner in our efforts to train preachers, bring souls to Christ and establish self-sustaining congregations throughout East Africa. 

Cy Stafford
TZ 2000 Missions Coordinator

Adjusting To Life On The Mission...

We are settling nicely into our lives here in Chimala. While life here does not have the bustle of going to rehearsals, practices, and meetings, we are all quite busy every day. We each have our own niche on the mission where we are all contributing to the mission and the surrounding community.

Rena is busy each day teaching the children in our home-school. She also helps out around the mission in various places each day. With her nursing background, she will often get a question about a medical issue when we travel to local congregations. She is going to start volunteering one day a week at the hospital in the OB ward. There is a large influx of patients due to the government health care laws and help is desperately needed.

Anna (17 years old) has been quite busy. As I write this report, she is busy with one of her Tanzanian friends preparing for teaching tomorrow. She and a friend go each week to a small Massai village to teach Primary School children. Also, she tutors a few of the mission workers on their English skills. When it comes to her, Anna is in her element! 

Laura (15 years old) often goes with Anna to the OB ward at the hospital to deliver baby blankets to new mothers. She enjoys being out and helping others.

We had some special visitors in the month of October. John and Linda Wagner (Chad's mom and dad) came over. They were quite glad to see the grand-kids and we were glad to see them. While here, they sure made themselves useful around the mission! 

Chimala Mission Notes
The Chimala Mission Hospital serves people in a 200 kilometer radius. We are offering OB services free of charge to the residents while the government is supposed to cover the costs of this service. They, however, have not been totally faithful in covering those costs. Also, we are assigning more nurses to the OB to cover the patient load. In fact, in April of this year, we delivered 111 babies in the whole month. In October, there were 287 babies delivered. We have almost tripled our patient load! The mission hospital is doing the best that it can to cover those costs, but it is putting the hospital in financial jeopardy. Also, we offer several services to HIV and TB patients. On a recent, normal day, I visited this section of the hospital.  As you can see, the hospital is quite busy.

There are several needs at the hospital, as you can imagine, and I would like to share a few of those with you. First, we need American medical professionals to come over on a short-term or long-term basis. Working and serving at the hospital and the mission is not as bad as one might think. There are houses available and plenty of work to do! Second, there are several capital improvements needed at the hospital - from a renovation of the records room to an update at the morgue. Third, we are in need of donations of medical equipment to be used at the hospital. If you would like to help with any of these, please let us know.  We are striving to show the love and compassion of Jesus to a sick and dying world while making a medical and spiritual difference. 

Preaching the Gospel
We visited several congregations over the last few weeks. Recently, I preached at the Isitu church of Christ. They were having a Gospel Seminar. They had our CBI students there all weekend and I was able to preach on that Sunday Morning. If you notice the gasoline generator behind Menard (my Estate Manager and Translator), it was purchased by the Tanzanian Christians to do their own seminars. That is evidence of the local Christians taking ownership of the evangelism in their own area!

I will be starting a class at the Igawa church of Christ each week on Friday. They would like to have more in-depth teaching. This congregation is doing a good job in evangelism and church growth and I am honored to be a part of their work. 

Special Appeal
We are still in need of support for our family. We came over to Chimala on faith that the LORD would provide. We pray that the LORD will work through you and your congregation to help us in our work. November and December are times when churches plan their budget for 2013. Also, individuals are looking for year-end opportunities for contributions. We are in need and await your support and assistance. Currently, our overseeing congregation fills in the need of $1,500/month in our support, but it is quite taxing to the mission work. If you can help us in our work, please let us know.

Chad Wagner and family

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

Growing Prospects In Togo...

TRACT DISTRIBUTION & ENROLLMENT EXERCISE

World Bible School and Mission Printing continue to complement each other in an effort to spread the saving message of Christ. Ever since we started receiving 20 footer sea containers from Mission Printing in the US, it has facilitated the world Bible School enrollment exercises. In the past, it was difficult getting people to write their names in order to enroll in the WBS, but now with the coming in of the tracts, they are more willing to give their names in exchange for a tract. This is so because most denominations sell their tracts and other religious literature that the Church of Christ is willing to hand out free of charge.

We recently organized a three day tract distribution exercise at ‘Obra Spot’ a very popular spot in the center of town. We gave out a couple of boxes of tracts and at the end of it all, we enrolled 200 plus names.

The Keve campaign was a joint effort between the Kpalime church and the Dzodze church in the Volta of region of Ghana. This church planting exercise started a couple of months ago when bro Riley brought a team of men from the US to work in the South Eastern part of Togo. As a result of this effort, five preachers trained at CBS in Kpalime have been hired to minister in the new congregations.

In a recent campaign at Keve, twenty souls were baptized thus marking the beginning of the Keve Church of Christ. Below you have pictures of some activities during the campaign.

The number of students at Center for Biblical Studies continues to be 15. Studies are going well and teachers are also committed to their duties. Students have continued in evangelism and as a result have planted one new congregation, distributed several tracts, have 32 prospects that they are studying with. Above all they are seriously anticipating their graduation by September 2013.

Willie Gley

Lessons From The Pastoral Epistles...

Dearest in Christ,

Greetings from this end. Your brothers and sisters are doing fine as the climax for our first graduation ceremony continues to come closer to us. The second matriculation ceremony is also coming up the same day.

We do hope you are doing fine and all that you do God is blessing. Brother James Coker from Colorado visited us and taught the Pastoral Epistles. He arrived safe and he is safe just for the fact that the power supply in Wotutu now is posing a problem to cool him down as we are in the dry season.

Thank you for your prayers as all that went out for weekend evangelism came back safe and sound. We went out to 4 locations after our lectures with the visiting instructor and the Lord added one soul in the congregation in Kombe. There was no camera there to share that happy moment with you.

Thanks for all your prayers. The Lord blessed my family again yesterday 1st of December 2012 with another baby boy. Keep the mother, son and father in your prayers and we take care of this precious gift from God.

This morning James taught and preached in the Wotutu congregation. His great lesson was so inspiring to the family of God and also to the entire community as our powerful PA system goes across our premises.

He had the privilege to speak out God’s word to a total of 104 worshippers in the Wotutu congregation this morning.

Brother James held in his hands God’s blessing of a child to the Eboli’s family. The Lord blessed them with a son two weeks ago and brother James was blessed to be with us today and we gave him the opportunity to pray for the baby.

 CBIW students smiled as brother James offered them a copy of a book on 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus by brother Denny Petrillo, a great book for the Pastoral Epistles. They know that knowledge is power so any opportunity for them to have it is always awesome.

CBIW rejoiced with another opportunity to received two ties each from brother James. Preaching is a noble job so they need stuff like this to look neat as they preach the gospel. Keep brother James in your prayers till he flies out of Cameroon this Thursday.

Plans
1) Please keep the plans of our very first graduation ceremony and second matriculation in your prayers. We are expecting above 700 people. This needs better preparation to make people feel just okay as they enjoy fellowship and celebration with us. Please you can be part of this?

2) Please keep brother Josh Austin in your prayers as he prepares to come over to Cameroon to teach Marriage and Family in the school, also to be part of the graduation ceremony.

Appreciation
We thank God for using you to accomplished whatsoever He is doing here and what He will continue to do. God bless you. Thanks for being there for us. Let us continue to work together.

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

Elangwe and family
By His grace director CBIW

A Year End Report Worth Considering...

I trust everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving break and was able to spend time with family in one way or another. As we are drawing near to the end of 2012 and looking into the face of 2013, there is much wonderful news to share. 

Keith Kasarjian has been a tremendous asset to the program since its beginning 15 years ago. He is one of several who are full time staff members on the Bear Valley team. Keith has been working to put together year end information for the entire program of Extension Training to give us all a perspective of where we are and where we are going. I am thankful to have such a capable right hand man to work with as we move ahead in the work of training men to preach. The information below was accumulated and written by Keith. 

Please take time to read through his report and consider what God has done with the cumulative efforts of all that is involved in this program.

It is hard to believe, but the end of 2012 is quickly approaching. At Bear Valley, we have had a banner year, unlike any other, and are even more excited about the prospects for next year and the future to come. This year has truly been unprecedented in the history of the Bear Valley Extension Program and we want to share some of the excitement with you - our friends, partners, and supporters.

There are currently 17 extensions, in 14 different countries around the world, with 277 full-time, preacher training students! This year has also witnessed 90 men graduate with their degree or certificate from Bear Valley. Just think of all the potential in those men and their families in the years to come, as the vast majority of them are serving in fertile parts of the world. This is truly exciting! This year has also seen the addition of four new extensions (the most ever in one year), new coordinators, directors, and partners.

However, at Bear Valley, we know that we are not doing this alone. We depend on partners and supporters to help in training preachers around the world. In addition to our all-important supporters, 91 different local teachers taught in Extensions where Bear Valley has been partnering with others in training men to preach. In addition to those local men, another 60 men made the journey to an extension to teach a “short course” to these students. This truly is a team effort at every level.

In addition to teaching these men how to preach and live, we want to instill in them a passion for soul-winning. This is borne out in the many studies, campaigns, and gospel meetings that they are involved in throughout the year. As a result of these efforts, we know of at least 664 baptisms, 13 new congregations, 130 restorations, and the conversion of several denominational preachers. To God be the glory!

This has truly been a remarkable year, but we are not resting on our laurels as we look to an exciting future. There are already 105 new students set to enter the program next year and we will be partnering with a new extension in Asunción, Paraguay. 2013 promises to be the most exciting year yet.

At Bear Valley, we thank all those who support us and those we partner with to carry out the mandate of 2 Timothy 2:2. What you are doing is making a difference and we literally could not do it without you. Thank you for the confidence you have placed in us and we look forward to continuing to serve together as long as the Lord allows.

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 

Appreciation - A Noble Theme In Cameroon: The focus of chapel lessons in Cameroon helps students understand the need for Appreciation.

Graduation And Recruitment At The WCSOP: The West Coast School of Preaching graduates one class and prepares another in Takoradi, Ghana.

Classes Move Along Well In Kenya: The Kenya School of Preaching is on a short break between quarters, but the work of these men is proving to do well and the need is great.

Kingdom Of Hope In Ghana: The efforts of Tony Johnson in Tamale, Ghana, along with others, to train men to preach is also connected to a great outreach to help children.

125 Graduates, 150 Church Plants In Tanzania: If you have ever wondered about the difference made in training men to preach in their own countries, just read this article.

Short Courses And Graduation At The ACSOP: Another class has completed their studies in Arusha, Tanzania and the work continues to grow. 

Final Thoughts
We hope everyone enjoyed a relaxing time over the Thanksgiving holiday. The end of the year is approaching quickly and we are continually working to develop ways to improve our efforts of training faithful men to preach the gospel. As stated earlier, we cannot do this work without you. Our God is great to have provided such loyal and dedicated individuals and congregations to be actively involved in extension training. We love and appreciate all of you.

God bless
Bob

Short Courses And Graduation At The ACSOP...

Dear Co-Workers:

It has been a busy few days. Graduation at the ACSOP is always a big event, and if it were not for many people working together the event would never happen. We have enjoyed having our guests also. Gary Fallis has been here for more than a week, teaching The Scheme of Redemption. He leaves on Tuesday. The Chad Wagner family has also been here since Tuesday. They came up from Chimala, where Chad serves as the Administrator of the Chimala Mission and Hospital, to celebrate Thanksgiving with us and have some vacation time. It has been a joy to have them and our kids have enjoyed spending time with their kids. They will leave tomorrow to go back to Chimala. Also, Cy and Stephanie Stafford, along with Exel Aultman, Stephanie's mother, will be leaving later this week for their furlough and reporting tour. So, please keep Gary, the Wagners, the Stafford's, and Exel in your prayers as they travel.

Since a picture is worth a thousand words, we will fill the rest of the report with pictures from the week's events. The final picture is of Ibrahim, with Ahimidiwe. Ibrahim was baptized after services at Kisongo this morning. Please pray for him as he grows in Christ. We will try to be more detailed about all these events next week.

Gee family

In order to see all of the pictures included in Jimmy’s report about graduation, please click here.

125 Graduates, 150 Church Plants In Tanzania...

Greetings Fellow Workers;

We pray everyone had a blessed Thanksgiving and that God continues to bless your life of service in Him. Stephanie, Granny, Allie and I hosted 35 for a Thanksgiving meal in our home. We were thankful for the Wagner family being with us. Chad is currently the Administrator for the Chimala mission. It was truly a time of fellowship and fun. 

Speaking of being Thankful, yesterday (Nov. 24th) we graduated 17 souls from the Andrew Connally School of Preaching. We were thankful for the presence of Gary Fallis who represented the Bear Valley Bible Institute. We are thankful for all the students, their dedication and the sacrifice they were willing to give that they might be better equipped for the work of the Kingdom. 

The school has now graduated 125 who are now serving the 150 church plants through out East Africa. It has been an amazing journey since we began in 1998. From two very small congregations with less than 30 to 150 plus with over 2,000 souls. Wow, simply amazing the things God continues to do.

We thank the Kensington Woods Elders for their vision. We thank the Bear Valley staff for their partnership in the Gospel. We thank everyone who has played a part in this work, making it possible to “...entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others” (2 Tim. 2:2). It was encouraging to see the Tanzania staff at the school take the lead and see this graduation through. All the missionaries did their part, the students theirs and through this cooperation, God was and is being glorified and souls are be saved, day by day. 

And, as if it could not have gotten any better, two men obeyed the Gospel after the graduation. One of our graduates (who hopes to plant a new congregation in his home village of Katish) had invited these fellows who he had studied with earlier to the graduation. They made the decision to obey and now the Kingdom is larger by two souls. Thanks be to God. He is good all the time.

Stephanie and I want to personally thank everyone who has contributed toward our furlough expenses. We never take for granted your love and generosity. We are looking forward to seeing many of you and sharing with you the work of God here in Tanzania in the coming weeks. 

During the month of December I will be traveling and working on the “Thanksgiving Challenge.” God’s mission work here in Tanzania needs your prayers, continued support and additional funds to continue in our efforts to “seek and save” those lost in sin. If you would like to meet with me, allow me to present the work to your congregation or simply have a cup of coffee allowing me some time to share with you our needs, please let me know. I have just a few open days left in December.

May your week of service bring glory to the Father, salvation to others and joy into your life.

In Him, Cy, Stephanie, Granny & Allie

Kingdom Of Hope In Ghana...

One of the projects I wanted to become involved with while I was in West Africa was to help children learn more about Jesus by teaching them English. The thought was to begin a local reading program, using the Bible, to teach children how to read and write English, a much desired skill in the villages and towns of Northern Ghana. If things worked out well with this initial learning center we would then begin adding classes in order to form a church of Christ elementary school. It sounded like a good plan to start small and grow, but God had different plans!

While looking for the right way to get started I kept running into road blocks in Tamale. In order to build a structure for the learning center to meet in I needed to get building permits, which required finding a draftsman to draw up building plans to submit. The man we had used to draw up the plans for the Bible Institute had left the area and it became a major task to find another qualified draftsman that would provide the drawings for a reasonable price. At the same time the project was getting a lukewarm response from some of the local church leaders I was counting on to help with the program. I was beginning to wonder about the wisdom of moving forward when the Kingdom of Hope was brought to my attention.

The Kingdom of Hope is a church of Christ Self-help Group (similar to an American non-profit organization) that was operating in the Upper East Region of Ghana. The group was set up in order to help take care of orphans from a recent tribal war. Generally in Ghana when a child loses their parents they are taken care of by extended family, generally older siblings or uncles and aunts. Unfortuately that was not happening in the villages around Bawku. The war had left many of the children without extended family in the area. It also left the Basari tribe in such depressed financial condition that many would not take on the additional responsibility of these children. So the Kuka church of Christ stepped in to help. On August 1, 2011 the church formed the Kingdom of Hope Orphan’s School for the purpose of taking care of as many of these children as possible.

After taking a trip to visit with the church leaders who are operating Kingdom of Hope I decided that this would be a great place to move forward with the plans for building the learning center. What really impressed me was how much the church in Kuka had done on their own. They saw a problem and reached out to help, even though they did not have the resources. They reached out trusting in God to provide for them. In order to qualify as a Self-help Group and take charge of these children the church had to have a plan to provide an education for the children. Since Kuka has no school that presented a problem, and rather than just opening an orphan’s home it was decided to open it as an orphan’s home and school. This was a pretty big decision since they had no school building, no teachers, and no housing for the children! But they did it, building a mud brick building for the school to meet in, keeping the children in their own homes, and feeding them as part of their own families. They found a man who was willing to teach for a very small amount, and the Kingdom of Hope Orphan’s School was opened. It offered on grade, P1 (similar to America’s 1st Grade) and a pre-school class for the younger children. The school had no desks, a single textbook for each of the 5 subjects taught that the teacher uses, and none of the learning aides we generally associate with elementary school education. But they did it as best they could with what they had.

I found out about the school because they were outgrowing their ability to take care of the children and run the school. When school began in September of this year the school had 42 children living with members of the church! In addition, there were a number of other children living in the village whose parents wanted to be able to attend the school as well since it was the only one in the area. They needed to expand to offering P2 classes along with the P1 class, meaning a need for another teacher and another set of text books. The problem was they hadn’t been able to pay the first teacher for the past couple of months, let alone hire another one. They were looking for a little help with paying for their teachers when they approached me, just about the same time I was looking for a place to build a children’s learning center. It is amazing how things sometimes work out.

Over the past couple of months I have become more and more involved with the Kingdom of Hope. In addition to getting their teacher paid, and hiring two more, one for P2 and one for the pre-school children, we have started building a new learning center for the school on ground provided to the school by the village chief. This new building, to be called the Enoch Elliot Learning Center, is much bigger than I had originally intended to build, but after seeing the Kuka church’s faith that God will provide, I decided to take the same leap of faith and build what is needed rather than what I had planned. It is exciting to see what God is doing as we work together in Kuka!

I will be heading back to Kuka next weekend to visit with the children and check on the building progress. It is a long trip, taking almost five hours each way over rough roads, but it is always worth it to see the children’s faces when the “white man” shows up. The church in Kuka is making a difference in these children’s life, and I have been blessed to be able to have a small part in their work. I am thankful to be seeing James 1:27 in action! If you would like to help there is a list of some of Kingdom of Hope’s needs in the thank you section on page 2 of this newsletter.

Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies News
The eighth term has begun at the Bible Institute with 11 returning students. Two students are missing this term due to sickness, an ever present problem here in Ghana. This quarter I will be teaching two classes, Hebrews and Galatians. Other staff members will be teaching classes covering the Godhead, the Preacher and His Work, Old Testament 6, and Christian Morals. It should be a great term for all involved.

Work on the new building continues to move forward. The last major hurdle to overcome in order to move in is getting the electricity turned on. There has been a freeze on new service since September, but it appears that they are now allowing a few new connections to be hooked up. If we can get the electricity on this month we plan to move into the building during the month of December.

The schools evangelism campaign to Bimbila was very wet, but still a success. In total there were 12 baptisms and the worship service on the final day of the campaign had 35 in attendance. For a full report on the campaign, and other work being done by those associated with the school, check out my Bear Valley Extension School reports at /extension- news/tag/tamale.

Thank You Supporters!
Overseeing Congregation Greenbrier church of Christ

Supporters (includes recent one time contributions) Greenbrier church of Christ
Colony church of Christ
Bobby and Jackie Sims

Sue Shumate
Aubrey and Donna Allensworth Mildred Priest
Virginia Hielen
Wilkie Family
Chris and Shirley Brill
Linda Ray

I am very thankful to all those who are part of the work here in West Africa. Last month’s contributions were almost double the normal monthly contribution! This extra amount will be used to continue working on the living quarters at the new building as well as provide more textbooks for the Enoch Elliott Learning Center.

If you are interested in helping the Kingdom of Hope Orphan’s School, here is a list of ongoing needs. Please make sure you specify what you would like your gift to be used for if you have a particular area you want to assist with.

Teacher’s salaries - $150 per month (3 @ $50) Desks and Chairs - $20 each set
Text books - $4 each
Mattresses - $25 each
School lunches - $150 per month Repairs for existing building - $1000

Please send all contributions to:

Greenbrier church of Christ 
Attn: African Missions
12 Wilson Farm Rd.
Greenbrier, AR 72058

Contact Information

Mailing Address:
Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies P.O. Box TL 925
Tamale, Northern Region
Ghana

Ghana Phone - 011-233-0248216622
E-Mail - anthonyjohnson2010@gmail.com

Tony Johnson

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

Classes Move Along Well In Kenya...

My dear brethren,

I pray this finds you doing great, I also trust everyone had a Happy Thanksgiving day. We have many things to be thankful to God for in this life, but I take this opportunity to thank you all for entrusting me with the souls of the these 20 men, their families and all those they will impact when they are out of the school. Also, thank you for entrusting me with the money and for the encouragements. So far, I believe everyone has done his part well especially on your part, I appreciate. On my part, every day has been a challenge and full of learning and I have been up to the task and pray that you will continue giving me undivided attention to  make this school better every moment. Mike Reese, thank you for keeping me alert.

The class came to an end on Friday the 23rd. We thank God all 20 students sat for all seven courses that were taught by four teachers. Some students are still winding up with the research papers and we are here to help. All the students agree that the school came at the right time. We have received very good compliments from majority of them on the work being done. The ones that have traveled are each taking back to their congregations the KSOP student application form for the next intake and also to create more awareness.

The first short course was taught by Obadiah Omutele on "Personal Evangelism" while the second was taught by George Ong'ondo - "The New Testament Church." All the teachers were up to the challenge and did wonderful work.

The next class begins next year January 7th, 2013. We expect the students to begin arriving from the 4th to 5th January.

I and Elias now must move with our families to Kisumu this December and settle down. We have to get good houses and schools for our children. If not they will keep staying away from us. Keep these in your prayers for it will help us to fully concentrate on the school and the work.

Elias visited a congregation where one of our student comes from last Sunday 18th. The student invited us to go and speak to the ladies meeting in his home congregation and help them know they are sinning by having authority over men. In the ladies meeting there Elias led the worship service and most of these women hand clap and lead worship services where they came from (liberal congregations) and Elias took the opportunity to condemn those errors. Some ladies later told Elias they have not known its against the Bible.

We look forward to hearing from you and meeting you in February.

It has been great working with you all, god bless the work you do.

Charles Ogutu

On the left is a picture of the new lockers being built for the students.

Graduation And Recruitment At The WCSOP...

Greeting from the West Coast School of Preaching. I am thankful to God to be able to sit and write the report today. The past couple of weeks has not been easy for me. I thank God for His mercies and kindness. 

Recruitment At West Coast
We now have 12 students for the first year class. In view of the fact that we shall not enroll students next year, we are encouraging some who have shown interest to enroll now. We shall keep our doors open until the end of this term. All those who enroll after the fourth week of the term will be required to take the first term course after they complete the two year program. 

Graduation
The graduation this year had the largest attendance in the history of the school with brethren and friends coming from seven of the ten Regions of Ghana: Western, Eastern Central, Greater Accra, Brong Ahafo, Northern and Upper East Regions. Six men who had completed the two-year program of study at West Coast were presented with certificates from the Bear Valley Bible Institute of Denver; two who had fulfilled the requirements for the bachelor’s degree of Bear Valley were also honored; and six men received the Bear Valley master’s degrees.

Various individuals supported the graduation with food and drinks and there was much to go round for all our guests to enjoy the day. The next day was a thanksgiving service at the campus church at which the service was conducted by the graduates. This year’s service was not as fully attended as last year’s.

We are grateful to all who helped and prayed for us to be able to do what we did on the 12th graduation of the West Coast School. 

Seminar
The Annual Seminar for Preachers and Church Leaders which had not been held for well over five years was held on November 12-15. This was done against many odds. The venue for the seminar was in a run-down state. It took much cleaning and fixing of nets and broken down electrical fittings to get sleeping places, kitchen and classrooms for the use of seminar participants. There were about 100 in attendance as compared to 300 plus formerly. Some had given up on the seminar because of the long break. Many who normally took their annual leave at seminar time to be able to attend had already taken their vacation and some already had other events scheduled for the time of the seminar. 

Speakers and subjects were as follows:

Toby Soechting – Elderships And The Lord’s Church In Ghana

Mike Dickison – The Church

Scott Ellis -  Deacons

Brandon Johnson -- Preaching

Daniel Ampadu-Asiamah – Ensuring Cohesiveness Among Brethren

Each speaker presented seven lessons on his subject. 

Final Weeks of School Term          
After the hectic two-week events, we have a recess from November 19-24. After that we shall have two weeks of classes to complete the first term of school. This will be followed by two weeks of short courses in Personal Evangelism and Geography of the Bible for the Junior Class, and How We Got The Bible and Marriage and the Family for the Senior Class.  The term ends December 21, 2012. 

Personal
I have been sick lately with a hip and muscle problem in both thighs and legs. Sitting down increases the pain, and standing after sitting makes walking a painful ordeal. All through the graduation and the seminar I was limping and in pain as I tried to move from place to place. As of Saturday, I became a bit better but I still walk with some pain in the hip. As if that was not enough, Ruth and I returned from church Sunday morning to find that our house had been broken into and items like my Compaq laptop, Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.0 Plus, mobile phones (including an iPhone 4G my daughter sent to me from the UK recently), NOW BIBLE (an electronic Bible that looks like a mobile phone) a SONY digital camera (on which I have pictures of recent school events), and $400 given by brother Toby on their departure had all been taken away. The main door was damaged and three rooms that were locked were broken into, damaging the locks.  We have had the main door replaced and new  locks fixed. The theft took place while most of our neighbors were out to church. The style of entry and operation was similar to what happened four years ago, only they used a different door. We are grateful this did not occur while our American brethren were staying at our house. Thankfully, we have overcome our shock and with the broken door fixed, and new locks mounted, we are able to go on with life. Ruth has been very supportive through all these and I thank God for her. Pray for us.

In about the time you read from me again, Ghana may have elected a new president and parliamentarians. Tension in the country grows as December 7, 2012, when voting takes place, draws nearer. Political party leaders call for peace daily. There is an uneasy peace. Whatever the outcome, brethren, pray for us.

Daniel K Ampadu-Asiamah

Appreciation - A Noble Theme In Cameroon...

Dearest in Christ,

Accept greetings from the staff, students and the good people of the Wotutu congregation. We do hope you are doing great. We join many of our friends in the USA to say “Thank you Father for your love and providence in our ministries.” As the Americans celebrated Thanksgiving Day over there it was a call for concern to remember those gestures that the Lord has done for us in our lives, in the lives of others, and the ministry which He has entrusted in our hands.

In our effort this weekend the Lord added brother Livinus Che in the body. Please keep him in your prayers as he walk with Christ.

Our theme for chapel this week was Appreciation. This was aimed at helping both staff and students in the big CBIW family to thank God for all that God did to us throughout 2 years of studies and missions. The students benefited a lot as they were taking their final exams in CBIW. The exams went on well and they are set for the short courses that will start this week. Keep brother James Coker from Colorado and brother Josh Austin from Arizona in your prayers as they travel over here to teach and preach.

On the left is a picture of brother Lah Joseph, a leader with the church of Christ Munyenge in the south west region of Cameroon, came visiting CBIW. There is a story attached to this brother that we need to know and praise God at the end of it.

On the right is a picture of brother Tobias again on house to house evangelism, in one of the 3 locations that we went for evangelism on Saturday night after our joint prayers and fasting with the entire Wotutu congregation. We prayed and fasted for a number of things and visions for which we need the intervention of God.

Below and on the left is the cross section of Wotutu congregation this morning had 1 first time visitor who expressed great satisfaction from what she listened to through our radio morning program. The congregation continues to experience growth as we continue to do evangelism and visiting. Today, a total number of 123 were in attendance.

Below and on the right is a picture of brother Lah preaching to the entire community of Wotutu and others. This brother can speak and quote from the Bible. You will read it correctly, but he cannot read and write. Oh if you stand beside him for a while, or you follow him for house to house evangelism, you will appreciate the power of God for somebody who cannot read and write, but can quote just what he is paraphrasing. The Lord is good. He can and cried and said to me, “Oh brother Elangwe, if I could read and write I would have enrolled myself in CBIW to be fully trained and stand as an evangelist of the Word of God.” It is a great lamentation, even to me, as I pity and pampered him that God is using him the way He deems best for the old rugged cross.

Plans
1) Our graduation and second matriculation is coming up on the 19-20th of December 2012. Please continue to pray for this twin occasion as many keep making calls and plans to be part of it. Your prayers and support will be appreciated for entertainment.

2) We continue to evangelize our communities. The plans to go to Batoke are still fresh, maybe that will be our last campaign before graduation.

Appreciations
We appreciate God for all that He is doing for us and the work He is doing in our communities. God bless you for allowing yourself to be used by Him for His glory. God bless and watch over you. Share this report with others as we wait if there may be any comments.

Elangwe and family
By His grace director CBIW

A Week To Be Thankful...

Since this Thursday is the time when the U.S. celebrates the Thanksgiving holiday, I want to focus on two specific areas for which I am thankful. The first is the stateside men who are involved as coordinators and short course instructors with each of the extension locations. Coordinators carry a great load within the program as they are working as a liaison for congregations who are involved in the financial support of the work and the directors on the ground who work to make sure students are receiving what they need, as well as the Bear Valley Bible Institute in Denver.

These men work to ensure the curriculum is being followed, needs are provided, short course teachers are scheduled (and that these men have all the information they need), take a hands on approach to teaching short courses themselves, and, at the same time, sharing reports with everyone who is interested in the program. Their work is not an easy task when considering the trips they make, time away from family, domestic travel for reporting, and communication levels that must be maintained. I am thankful for each of these men and their love for training preachers.

Connected with the coordinators for the program are the short course teachers. While it is true that one of the responsibilities of the coordinator is to teach short courses, the majority of these classes are taught by men who are preaching for congregations around the U.S. These men use their own funds to cover their travel expenses, plus they give of their time in preparation for and presenting the class material they will be teaching. I am thankful for men like these who are dedicated to doing whatever they can to help train others to preach the gospel. 

Second, I want to express my appreciation to each of the financial supporters who are involved in this work. The financial responsibility of 18 different schools around the world requires a large amount of money to operate successfully. This responsibility is being met by individuals, couples, and congregations throughout the U.S. who are willing to make incredible sacrifices to meet the daily, weekly and monthly needs of the program. Without their dedication to the work and godly generosity, the program would still be a dream.

Thank you!!! I pray you will all enjoy a wonderful holiday time with family.

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’ report is located here.

Extension Reports 

Being One In Christ: As the quarter draws to an end and the church in Wotutu experiences growth, the subject everyone needs is one on unity with the Savior.

Youth Camps Succeed In Nepal: Recent youth camps have provided opportunity for teaching and several have obeyed the gospel.

Who Is A Christian? This notable subject is one being preached and discussed in Uganda as well as in other parts of the world.

Water Of Life Raft Shares The True Water Of Life: Two graduates in Cambodia are now living on and providing pure water to residents with the hope of sharing Christ.

Back To Class And Evangelism: Tony Johnson has returned to Ghana and the next quarter of classes has started, along with reports on student evangelism.

Barack And Victoria Obey The Gospel: The news is exciting from Arusha as a couple obey the gospel being added to the body of Christ.

Bats In The Belfry? Some reports are worth reading just to know what might be happening in the attic. This is no exception. 

Final Thoughts
As we close this week’s report, my prayer is that God will bless you for the gift of your time, money and ability toward Extension training. This work needs you! As well, I want you to know how much you are appreciated. I pray for you each day and know that God is working through you to accomplish His will. 

God bless
Bob

Bats In The Belfry?

November 12th Report

Dear Co-Workers:

QUOTE OF THE WEEK:  “The Lord has looked down from heaven upon the sons of men to see IF there are any who understand, who seek after God.” Psalms 14:2

The Lord blessed us with a huge rain last night. Everything is looking bright and green (and in places where there is no grass, like huge fields of swirled chocolate). The children just came in excited that they found a 3 foot long snake skin. No worries as long as we do not find the snake!

Trina taught the Ladies class (reviewing Genesis chapters 29-30 and completing chapter 31 today). Due to the rain, none of the new converts showed up until more than half-way through the Bible class hour. So, Jimmy did not have class but sat in on the men’s class. The Kisongo children listened as Abigail taught the Children's class about Hezekiah saving Jerusalem.

Gary Fallis, from Texas, is due to arrive Friday night. As the Director of Graduate Studies for the Bear Valley Extensions he travels to many of the BV extension locations teaching graduate, as well as undergraduate, classes. Here he will be teaching The Scheme of Redemption to the second-year students who will graduate the following Saturday, Nov. 24. There are a total of eight undergraduates and nine Master’s students who will get their degrees.

Abigail teaches 16-year-old Grace nearly every Sunday (her father will not permit her to be baptized but is allowing Abigail to continue studying with her).  

Here is a note received from Innocent Mafayo, preacher at Monduli: "Halo all. wishing you all the best. Great news! The diabetes patient (Sokoine) who is Masaai is baptized today. He is the first one to be baptized in the new baptistry at Monduli church. Pray for him. Please. Amen."

Upcoming events are: Future Preachers Training Camp (first full week in December) and Tanzanian Christian Camp (second full week in December). Christopher Mwakabanje has directed the Future Preachers Training Camp for several years now. He has asked Jimmy to speak two times during the camp. The rest of the lessons will be brought by the local brethren, all of them graduates of the ACSOP.  

As you are aware, our furlough is scheduled for April 2013 (only about 23 weeks away).  While very thankful for the funds that have been received, we still lack $18,500 for the plane tickets. Our furlough comes around every 2 1/2 years and, no doubt, is very expensive for a family of our size. If you receive this newsletter and your congregation has not committed to helping with this, please do us the favor of approaching the elders or men with this request (perhaps there could be a special contribution). OR...if you know of a congregation or individual that is not involved in this work, this could be a great opportunity for them to be a part. All missionaries go to the field in faith...faith in many things...one being that the funds will be available for furloughs (after almost eight years here, we have only taken two). While we are anxious to see our families (and grandparents anxious to see the grandchildren), most of our time will be spent traveling reporting on the work. As our supporters you have always come through and we believe that this time will be no different. One of the hardest issues concerning mission work is raising funds. You already make sacrifices to keep us over here (and we are very grateful, especially during these difficult economic times) so it's hard to ask everyone to give a little more. However, everyone's little bit can all add up to a lot! From the bottom of our hearts, we say "thank you" for all you have done in the past! Thank you for your concern, prayers and generosity! Furlough funds should be earmarked: “Gee - Furlough”  and sent to the East Side congregation. The address is on the first page of this report. May the Lord bless and keep you as you serve Him wherever you are!

With Love from Africa,
Jimmy, Trina, Lindsey, Abigail, Heather, Candace, Stuart, David, Naomi, Elijah and Matthew 

November 19th Report

Dear Co-Workers:

QUOTE OF THE WEEK: "He who says to the wicked, 'You are righteous,' peoples will curse him, nations will abhor him; but to those who rebuke the wicked will be delight, and a good blessing will come upon them." Proverbs 24:24, 25

BATS IN THE BELFRY? No, but it seems there are "animals in the attic" that may be chewing on our internet cord. Abigail has been hearing lots of noises above her ceiling and our internet has been awful the last few weeks (more so than usual). The plan is to get that checked out this week so we may correspond with everyone better.

GIRLS, GIRLS, GIRLS! We believe that was the name of an old Elvis Presley movie. Last Wednesday evening, seven girls from the Kisongo congregation were invited over. Added to our five, that makes 12 girls playing games, listening to a devotional conducted by Abigail, watching a couple of movies and spending the night. However, it wasn't as loud as you might expect because Tanzanian girls are generally much quieter, especially when at someone else's house. They were all very polite. Interestingly, most Tanzanians do not wear pajamas to sleep in but just wear their regular clothing (what was worn that day) to bed. This Tuesday, six more girls are invited to spend the night!

OLD HABITS DIE HARD. After playing an outside game and drinking water, TZ girls would toss out the last half-inch of water in their cup. This is something I've noticed with many other Tanzanians. Once when we had younger children visiting, I kindly chided them for throwing away good water (we use only bottled water to drink and cook with). When the girls were asked why, they did not know the reason for this habit, but just that they had always done this. Later I asked three adults and got the same answer. Personally, we believe it probably began generations ago when there wasn't always clean water to drink and the dirt settled to the bottom of the cup. It just makes sense one would throw it away. However, "old habits die hard" and people still do it even when the water they are drinking is clear and good. Of course, in Africa, especially after big rains, the water can still have dirt in it and people will let it sit for a day or so. It is a reminder of an illustration about women in a certain family who always cut off the end of their ham before placing in the pan. No one knew why they did it until they asked Grandma who said, "My pan was too small."

PLEASE DO NOT DISTURB! Ahimidiwe faced challenges this morning in keeping the attention of folks in Bible class; mainly because a race car was practicing in the open field next to the church building. The "revving up" of the engine would drown out Ahimidiwe's voice (and the driving around and around gave folks outside in the New Converts' class a dust bath). In addition, two phones rang, a car alarm sounded and one toddler screamed about every five minutes (obviously his sweet mother was not practicing the "true love" of a parent described in Proverbs (3:12; 29:17; 13:24) taught in last years' Child-Training classes).

"THE CANALS WILL EMIT A STENCH" (ISA. 19:6) The city of Arusha has been fixing their sewer system near Main St. They have closed off a side street and materials are scattered everywhere. They have also re-routed the sewer water onto the street, where many have to walk through it. The smell was pretty bad. Hopefully the work will soon be finished.

GARY FALLIS arrived safely and begins his short course on The Scheme of Redemption tomorrow. Lindsey and Abigail have completed their studies for their Associate's Degrees from ACSOP and are anticipating graduation along with the others this Saturday. Gary will be the keynote speaker.

LADIES DAY. Several Tanzanian women, along with Stephanie Stafford and Anita Hochdorf, conducted a ladies seminar at Maji ya Chai yesterday. Women here truly enjoy special days such as these and are uplifted by the Bible lessons and good fellowship.  

BUSY WEEK. The graduates and Gary have been invited to our house for dinner MONDAY evening. TUESDAY evening, as mentioned above, the girls are having another spend-the-night party. WEDNESDAY the Chad Wagner family (missionaries in Chimala) is due to arrive to fellowship with the missionaries here for several days and for Chad to speak at the graduation ceremony. THURSDAY all the missionaries plus visitors and other guests from Arusha will enjoy a Thanksgiving Dinner at the Stafford's house. FRIDAY, we hope to have dinner with the Wagners, and, of course, graduation ceremonies are at 10 am SATURDAY morning!

May the Lord bless "You and Yours" as you reflect upon your blessings this Thanksgiving Day. It is our wish that your time with your families is filled with love and the warmth of "family." Speaking of blessings, you are a blessing to us and to the Tanzanian people.  Thank you for your support, prayers and encouragement! A special thought of love goes to our extended family from whom we are separated in distance again this Thanksgiving but together in spirit. Happy Birthday to Trina's sister, Denita!

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

Barack And Victoria Obey The Gospel...

Greetings Fellow Workers;

We hope and pray this report finds you well, blessed and serving faithfully where you are. We are grateful for your prayers, support and love for lost souls. 

Barack obeys the Gospel! Yes, today Barack and his wife mama Victoria put Christ on in baptism. They followed the obedience of bibi (Ki-Swahili for grandmother) on Thursday. This followed five souls who obeyed the Gospel at Ushirombo last Sunday along with one sweet soul at Moshi as well. God continues to give the increase through the faithful service of His saints. 

Barack, mama Victoria and bibi (Riiziki) are results of God’s grace, good and honest hearts and a direct result of this year’s Safari for Souls campaign. The Hoover group worked an area of Arusha called “White Rose.” Stephanie and Jane Massawe have continued faithfully with the follow-up efforts. Others have joined them, including Caitlin Middleton who stayed with us for several weeks. 

After a powerful sermon from our brother Gary Fallis, Barack and Victoria made their decision to give their lives to God. A joyful day in God’s Kingdom. I was dropping off bibi and Rose, her granddaughter, after services when Rose came up to me and said she was ready to obey the Gospel, but wanted to study one more time with Stephanie, Jane and Allie. Please keep all in your prayers as they begin a new life in Christ. 

Gary is here to teach a short course for the second year class. He will also be our guest speaker for graduation on Saturday. We are indebted to Gary and the whole Bear Valley team for their contributions to Kingdom growth. Thank you all so very much.

God is doing a mighty work in Tanzania and throughout East Africa. Congregations are being planted on a monthly basis. Souls are coming to the Lord daily. Leadership in the church is beginning to show in some mighty ways. Thank you all for making it all possible. 

We arrive on December 2nd and hit the fund raising trails on the 4th. I will be in the Nashville area the first week and in the Tuscaloosa/Birmingham, Alabama the next. I would love to buy you a cup of coffee and share with you God’s mighty mission work if you are interested. Just let me know and we will set the date. 

God is good all the time! Because of my dear brother Ed Norton, the congregation he serves at, the Mayfield congregation, and others, we now have our airline tickets covered and part of our furlough expenses as well. Thank you all so very much.

We close with a zeal and hope that God will open the doors needed to meet our financial needs. Thank you all for what you do and for what you have yet to do. 

In Him,
Cy, Stephanie, Granny & Allie

Back To Class And Evangelism...

Greetings from Tamale! 

After a three week break classes are once again in sessions at the Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies (TIBS). The break has been filled with many activities as the staff and students continue to work at spreading the good news of Jesus Christ throughout Ghana and West Africa. 

Evangelism Update
The entire student body was involved with evangelistic campaigns during the break period. Two students returned to Cinkasse, Togo to follow up with the church that was planted there in September. The rest of the students and two of the staff held a church planting campaign in Bimbila, Ghana. 

The report from Cinkasse focused on the churches efforts to grow, and highlighted some of the issues new Christians face. One issue has to do with the building the church is meeting in. It is a school building, but often the person with the key fails to show up to open the building for the church, resulting in someone having to go and find the person. Because of this the worship service is often delayed, sometimes by hours. It was reported that three ladies who had recently been baptized were struggling to make it to services due to the distance they had to walk from their homes to the place where the church was meeting, and their husbands being upset because the delays in getting into the building required them to be away from home for most of the day. After meeting with the women the leadership team for the church is investigating ways they can help these new Christians in their attempt to faithfully attend worship services, even if it means finding a new site to worship at, not an easy task in a predominately Muslim area.

The Bimbila campaign was successful despite a problem with the weather. Rainy season in the north was supposed to have ended before the campaign dates, but it didn’t quite work out that way. There were four nights scheduled for showing evangelistic movies and public preaching, but the rain forced the outright cancellation on two nights, and a third night was cut short. The first night a movie was able to be shown there were a little over 100 in attendance. The second night, which got cut short by the rain, had well over 200 in attendance. Despite the weather the campaign team went from house to house each day distributing gospel tracts and conducting personal Bible studies. A number of studies were held, including studies with members of the Jehovah’s Witness church that was near the site of the campaign and with a local denominational preacher for the Evangelical Presbyterian (EP) church of Ghana. So far there have been twelve baptisms in Bimbila with four additional people continuing to study with the men who will be looking after the congregation. The worship service on the final day of the campaign reported a total of 35 in attendance, with 24 from the community joining the campaign team in praising God for the church in Bimbila.  

We also received a report from TIBS graduate Stephen Abugbilla regarding the work he is involved with at the Atuba church of Christ in the Upper East Region. The church in Atuba continues to grow through local evangelism efforts and now has an average attendance of 82. This growth has encouraged the congregation to reach out to other areas, and the church has decided to help revive a dormant church in a neighboring village by sending men to preach and teams to begin house to house evangelism efforts. What an encouraging thing to hear about! We thank God for the Atuba congregation and their desire to go to the work. TIBS will be assisting the effort by providing tracts and other materials to the Atuba team.  

Other News
I was pleased to represent the TIBS staff at the resent graduation ceremony of the West Coast School of Preaching. Over the past year the relationship between the schools has continued to grow, and it was an honor to be present as six men completed their studies and are entering the field ripe for harvest. We look forward to hearing about the great things these men will do for the kingdom!

I am also pleased that TIBS has been able to provide songbooks and used Bibles to a number of local congregations. These books, donated by various individuals and congregations, were collected by Stephen Ashcraft and sent to Ghana with the help of Mission Printing. During the past couple of weeks over 100 songbooks were delivered to churches in Bawku, Sibi, Gor-Tanniel and Kuka, along with a great number of Bibles.  

Closing Thoughts
This is just some of the work being done by the students and graduates of TIBS. Plans are under way to return to Bimbila, hopefully without the rain, as well as for a campaign to assist the church in Walewale in the spring. In December I will be making a trip to the border area of Ghana and Burkina Faso to investigate areas for future church planting efforts in Burkina Faso, a country where the church is almost non-existent. But for now the students are hard at work once again in the classroom, equipping themselves for the work to come. Please keep us all, both students and staff, in your prayers. 

In His service,
Tony Johnson

anthonyjohnson2010@gmail.com

Water Of Life Raft Shares The True Water Of Life...

Greetings loved ones!

The past month has been tremendous! God continues to enlarge our borders in more ways than one and I am so thankful I am a part of it. I want to talk first about the "Water of Life Raft" that our graduates, Hokly and Pheap, are serving in. The raft is now fully complete and ready to operate. In fact, we had to tow it to its designated area in Kampong Kleang, which is about an hour drive from Siem Reap for its Grand Opening. It was a huge success in that the health department, the head of the communes, and the villagers came to see what it was that we were offering. They gladly welcomed us and supports what we want to do. Below are some pictures of the event. 

We pray that our boys will use this opportunity to spread the gospel and give them Living Water that only Jesus can provide. We look forward to the good works that these two graduates will do in Kampong Kleang.

Another way that God has enlarged our borders here is by providing me with a new son! His name is Sovanda. He was born on November 5th. I am so happy to have a son and to be able to have the opportunity to train him and mold him with God's word so that one day he can become a servant of God as well. Some fathers want their sons to be professional athletes, some want their sons to be doctors, or lawyers, or engineers and they rear them up to have the best chance at achieving those goals. My focus and my priority for my son is for him to be a professional servant of God. I want him to be a spiritual doctor, one who knows God's laws, and one who will help build God's kingdom. I want him to know who God is and what God wants for him. I will rear him, as well as my daughter, to be such individuals. I will do whatever it takes to give them the best chance at achieving those goals. Please pray for my wife and I as we work together to accomplish this task.

And last but not least, God has enlarged his border in Siem Reap by adding a new soul to His kingdom. My brother in law, Sopheak, (Iya's brother) has finally decided to put on Christ in baptism. I am so happy and proud of him. I pray that he will be a faithful servant of God and be a good example to those around him.

Phanat

To see Phanat’s report with pictures of the Water of Life Raft, his son, and baptism of his brother-in-law, please click here.

Who Is A Christian?

Dear brethren,

My internet has been down for the whole last week. On Sunday the 11th, my son, Paul, and I left Busia for  Bar ber village in Kenya to visit the brethren who live in that village. We left Busia at around 7:00 a.m. and arrived at 10:15 a.m. and found the brethren waiting for us. This congregation is where our graduates brother Oloo Daniel and Remigio Omollo worship. I was given a chance to be the speaker during the service. My lesson was about Who is a Christian? I drew my lesson from 1 Peter 2:9. After the service the brethren commented that they have seen who they are. The brethren prepared lunch for us at brother Oloo's home. We met brother Oloo's family. His step mother is eighty years old, but his own mother and father past away. We planned for evangelism in that area early next year God willing. One of my plans is to be visiting our graduates and encourage them. Let me stop here for now. May our loving Lord bless you all as you serve Him. 

Yours
Francis Wechesa