New And Exciting Changes...

An exciting new look can be found at the Bear Valley Bible Institute website. Among the changes, you will notice the Extension page provides a slide show where schools have provided pictures. We want to encourage the extension locations to provide pictures with their reports that we can incorporate into the weekly report. Also, one of the new features, located at the bottom of individual reports, is a link where you can share the report through various social media: Facebook, Twitter, and Google +1. Again, we want to encourage all of you who read the report to share the individual reports or the report as a whole. The more who read about the work, the better it is for the program.

Thanksgiving week is a very special time of the year. As we have mentioned before, it is a time where we have opportunity to more formally express our gratitude for all you continue to do for the development of training preachers. This includes the work in Denver, as well as, the extension program around the world.

Our only wish is that we had enough space to thank each individual involved in the work. Of course, the nature of such a task would be impossible and inevitably would leave someone out. To the financial supporters, teachers, directors, encouragers, staff and those who offer prayer each day on behalf of the work, thank you! The work continues to flourish because God is working through you and for you in the development of training preachers. Thank you!

It is amazing that we are approaching the end of the year so quickly. 2013 has seen so many powerful developments: souls brought to the Lord, churches planted (and revived), and the Lord’s people encouraged. The year before us is one that promises to be filled with the same in every location.

Our prayer is that each of you have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Please know you are loved and appreciated for your involvement in the work at Bear Valley. 

Now on to the other reports...

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

The latest report from Jerry Bates can be read by clicking here.

Extension Reports 

Quarter Ends And Evangelism Begins In Cameroon: As the last quarter of the first year comes to a close, seven locations are prepared for evangelistic work.

Change Of Plans Works For The Good Of VVBC: Jerry Bates recently had to change travel plans and ended up teaching a short course in Visakhapatnam, India.

Powerful Influence Of A Mother In East Africa: As Cy Stafford and Jimmy Gee teach in Kenya, the story of a local minister shares the power of a great evangelist.

The Ear Of The Wise Seeks Knowledge: There are times the challenges in a child’s life can become a lesson for everyone, especially on the mission field.

Final Thoughts
A final word to let you know that we are working to finish the “end-of-the-year” tasks in preparation for 2014. Please remember us in your prayers as we seek wisdom to make the right decisions and move ahead with the diligence needed. Our sole desire is to glorify God and lift up our Savior. Thank you for making it possible.

God bless
Bob

Change Of Plans Works For The Good Of VVBC...

Dear brethren Christ,

Greetings to you in the precious name of Lord Jesus Christ our Savior. I hope this email finds you all doing well.

God blessed us with another visit by our beloved brother, Jerry Bates. This was an unexpected visit, however we are ready for any such visits. Because we consider such visits benefit our students so much. Certainly this is what happened when brother Jerry Bates visited Viaskha Valley Bible College. He was scheduled to visit us on the 24th but due to bad weather conditions his following visit to Orissa was cancelled and when he shared that with us, we welcomed him to come visit us and teach a short course. During their visit, Jerry’s wife, Paula, taught during the Ladies class for two days. They were really blessed with these classes. Much good was done during their one week visit, glory to God. 

“Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. ”

New Birth: We are grateful to God for blessing us in producing effective evangelists of Christ.  One of them is brother Prakash. We attended a gospel meeting where he invited us to preach about the ‘New Birth’ and ‘Blessings in Christ Jesus.’ One of the reasons he invited us to preach these subjects is, on this day four newly baptized brethren were present, also his daughter celebrating her first Spiritual Birth anniversary (she was baptized a year ago). We used this very good opportunity to preach about the mentioned subjects. Brother Samuel Raju, Director of the school preached about the “Blessings in Christ.”  John Dean Preached about the “Uniqueness of Christianity” comparing with the other religions on this globe. He emphasized the uniqueness as the New Birth and New Life in Christ Jesus. 

" Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word. "

Evangelism: Local congregations, including some of the students of the current batch, have begun reaching the local community with the gospel. They took up a new program, that is the ladies in the congregation should gather on each Friday to do a door knocking campaign. Not all, but some of the ladies who are very interested have come forward to be a part of this program. The local preacher, along with another brother from the congregation, have been doing this program successfully. They are not getting a 100% welcome from every home they visit, but thankfully enough that most of the homes are being given gospel tracts. These have Biblical information about the Bible, Salvation, Church, etc. They are reaching several individuals through this print media. As a result two ladies have come forward to accept Christ as their Savior. 

Gratitude: We are thankful to God first for His mercy being shown on the school through the charity of our beloved brethren from the Lake Houston and Strickland Church of Christ. We pray that the success of the Lord's work would be continued for the years to come, so that effective evangelists would be produced into the vast mission field of India to rescue the lost millions. We thank all the Churches, including Bear Valley, for their trust and confidence in the Lord's work that is going on here. We do appreciate them for sending instructors to teach both short courses to the under grads and also the master’s class students. We pray that our relationship would be strengthened through this joint effort and bring glory and honor to our mighty God by helping the Church to grow in India. 

Description of Pictures attached:

1. Brother Jerry teaching 'Book of Acts' to the undergraduate students

2. Ladies attended for Paula Bates's class, Samuel distributing Hymn books to the ladies

3. Newly Baptized young men received New Bible and a Hymn Book

4. People gathered for a gospel meeting conducted by one of our graduate Prakash

5. Prakash being honored for his good work towards the extension Lord's kingdom.

6. Couple of ladies came forwarded to be added to the Church, we are praising God for the growth of the local congregation which gathers at the school premises. Local minister Bro. Kavitha baptizing one of the two ladies.

In Christ,

Samuel Raju & John Dean 

Visakha Valley Bible College

Church of Christ

Andhra Pradesh,  INDIA

Quarter Ends And Evangelism Begins In Cameroon...

Dearest in Christ,

Shalom from your brothers and sisters in Wotutu Cameroon. We do hope this mail meets you, your family and the entire congregation doing great. We are doing our best here, even though many continue to struggle with health conditions.

Last week was great and busy as the students of CBIW were writing their last long courses exams for their first year of studies. Thank you for your prayers to God on their behalf.

Immediately after the exams some students were ready to go to 7 different locations for weekend evangelism. God took them and brought them back safe and sound with great news of His power over His work in those locations.

CBIW students traveled with me and minister Itali, whose course was the last long course to be taken during the exams. We posed for a family picture, saying we are not alone. It is clear we are not alone, because God is standing by us and you are also there. We thank you and pray you continue to stand with us to accomplish God’s mission in our lives and our land.

We always welcome our visitors as we did during our worship this morning during announcement. We had 4 visitors stand and introduce themselves to us. Our program “Back to the Bible” keeps making waves as many listen to the gospel message early in the morning in their homes through our PA system, or as we call it, a community radio.

I was able to preach God’s word. What a great privilege to be a happy slave for the Lord, serving the Lord with joy and joy.

Brother Etah Edwin appreciated sister Alice on behalf of the entire student body for her great gestures towards the students. She brought cooked food from a faraway congregation to Wotutu to visit the students of CBIW. She did the same last year during the alpha batch, she is touched to see preachers discharging their job with joy even in the situations that many preachers in Cameroon find themselves. Keep her in your prayers to continue with such love for the gospel and the cross.

I was also able to share with the students in the dormitory, as she brought us fufu and vegetables. It was delicious and we committed her in God’s hands and to receive the desires of her heart.

The Lord added a soul in our one week old congregation in Down Beach, Limbe. It is amazing every day in our eyes as we see what the Lord is doing in this work. The work in Batoke village witnessed an increase from little children who came today to worship, but their parents didn’t come after Saturday evangelism, whereby they accepted to come but failed. The children (6 of them) came and were happy to be in the church. We shall follow the interest of these little children to penetrate their parents who were receptive to listen to the message. Bafia village, which is the congregation we revived less than a month ago, is now witnessing a great increase as our brother Johnson was restored and 8 of his neighbors came and worshiped with the church of Christ to see how on earth people can worship without mechanical instruments. They were amazed to enjoy vocal singing for the first time today. Please keep this congregation in your prayers. Today they worshiped for the very first time with 26 souls. What a God we serve. God is blessing the work here. Thank you for your prayers and your deep concern.

Plans
1) Tomorrow, all the students in CBIW will rest and prepare for the annual gospel Lectureship which will be held in Tombel, far away from Wotutu Village. A hired van will take some students while some will go to other congregations where we are nurturing for follow up and evangelism. Keep our travels in your prayers.

2) This week on Saturday we shall welcome brother Ralph and wife, sister Cindy, in Wotutu who will be here to teach a short course on Galatians, while sister Cindy will organize a ladies day on Saturday 7th for the ladies in our congregation here and other congregations. Keep their travels in your prayers.

Appreciations
God bless you and keep you for all your love for the old rugged cross. We appreciate God daily on your behalf for accepting and allowing the Lord to use you the way He is using you to accomplish His work here. You are in our prayers, along with your entire family and your friends who are hearing about us through you and your entire congregation.

Do your best to continue to share this report with others.

Elangwe and family

By His grace director CBIW

The Ear Of The Wise Seeks Knowledge...

"It is better to live in a desert land than with a contentious and vexing woman." Proverbs 21:19

We hope you are enjoying your Sunday! The above picture gives the impression that there is no civilization for miles. However, our house is right above this ravine, the preaching school is below and several buildings are near.

Randy Pyle and Tom Brandon arrived late last night, worshipping at Kisongo today. Tom taught an excellent lesson on the main characters in "Esther." He emphasized the importance of an encourager (Mordecai) who knew he couldn't go before the king but helped Esther have the strength. Abigail taught the Children's class. Lindsey will be a student in Randy and Tom's short course on "Leadership."

Also at the Kisongo congregation was the Gaines family. Daniel preached a great sermon on "Hell," saying that of all the preachers in the N.T., Jesus spoke about this subject the most. The Gaines have found a suitable house and should be moving in soon. Tiffany said she appreciated our efforts to arrange such a great initiation for their family (constant electrical outages continuing into their fourth week here and now a water shortage for 3 days. Having no electricity at night translates into sweaty nights with little sleep). As missionaries welcoming others to the team, we do what we can! (wink) Now, if we could just arrange for them to catch an amoeba that would top it all off.

Speaking of electrical outages, we "traveled back in time" and did hand-washing one day. Our guard did the difficult clothes (like blue jeans) and us the easier ones. Hand-washing isn't all that bad (when you turn on the generator and spin them in the washer getting all the water out!) The machine won't drain properly when the generator is on...but it will spin! Americans have become so dependent upon electricity...us included. We washed approximately 7 loads of clothes.

Jimmy and Cy are scheduled to return Thursday from teaching in Kusumu, Kenya at the school of preaching. Then on Friday, all the missionaries plus guests will celebrate Thanksgiving at the Stafford house. And,  on Saturday, ASCOP students will graduate.

"The ear of the wise seeks knowledge..." Naomi's right ear was bitten by an insect (maybe a spider) and swelled up.  After three days, the infection was gone and the swelling disappeared. Besides a painful ear, she was upset because the boys teased her about turning into "Spider Woman."                                    

Our boys love the outdoors and are always making weapons out of sticks or plastic pipes, finding lizard eggs, unique-shaped rocks, making their own "bowling balls" out of mud, clay and straw and climbing trees. Eventually parents catch on to the fact that most kids like nature better than "store-bought" toys and will use their imagination!

Our girls invited some friends over Friday night. They had a devotional, ate beef stew, brownies and ice cream, watched a movie and of course...talked and laughed.

New friends and old friends...we enjoyed having the Gaines and the Kimaro families over for a meal on Saturday evening.                                                    

Thank you for everything you do for us! Next week, we have an interesting story to tell you (under the heading of "A Day in the Life!").        

Please pray for the safety of Cy and Jimmy while in Kenya and for the Gaines adjustment and transition here. Speaking from experience, it is tough on a family...especially little ones who don't understand this new and strange change in their lives. The Gaines will be without their personal effects for several more weeks (or months...) and will continue "living out of suitcases" like they did for a long time BEFORE coming to Africa. They are a great family  and already an asset to the TZ 2000 Mission Team.

With Love from Africa,

The Jimmy Gee family

Powerful Influence Of A Mother In East Africa...

Greetings Fellow Servants, 

We greet you all in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and in His great might. You remain in our prayers often, knowing our God hears and is more than able to fulfill all your needs. We are most grateful for your prayers and support. God continues to do a might work here in East Africa. 

Jimmy and I are blessed to be here in the city of Kisumu, Kenya, teaching in our sister school (the Kenya School of Preaching), directed by our good brother Charles Ogutu. Today was a very special day indeed. I had to amazing privilege of traveling upcountry with Charles, Obadiah and Raymond (all graduates of the ACSOP). These three men of God are taking the Master’s classed being taught by Jimmy. 

We left around 07:45 heading west toward Charles’ home area of Bungasi, Kenya. We drove for just over two hours. Our travels took us around the Northeastern part of Lake Victoria. About mid-way we crossed the Equator. As we drove Charles began telling “his story” and the many congregations the Lord has used him to revive, convert to the truth and establish. He told of the most amazing evangelist he has ever known. This evangelist taught him the Gospel and had the greatest influence on him, helping him to become the evangelist he is becoming. This amazing evangelist was his mother! Yes, his mother. He said she helped start many congregations throughout his life and demonstrated God’s love and desire for all to hear. Thank God for godly mothers!

We arrived to a very nice and very neat building. It has a dirt floor, walls made of sticks and mud, no windows, but they did have a tin roof! When Charles came to the ACSOP in 2004 he left a congregation of 15-20 souls. A year after graduation he began working with his home congregation and today we worshiped our God with a full house of over 100 souls. 

Next door was a small building that housed the school he began, beginning with eight students, teaching them that they might in turn fill the pulpits of the 10 plus new congregations the Lord had established through this man of God. The school continues teaching God’s Word by our good brother Vincent, another of our graduates. 

Space does not allow to tell the “whole” story, but know this: your prayers and support of the Andrew Connally School of Preaching and the Tanzania 2000 mission effort as a whole are having God’s desire accomplished here in East Africa in a way only God could accomplish. We are but two of the 18 school around the world the Bear Valley School of Biblical Studies in Denver, CO work with. Can you imagine the good being done? 

Two other amazing examples are Clement Murungu and Michael Losotwa. These two men are working together at Karatu, TZ. Recently, using Wold Bible School material, three teachers have obeyed the Gospel. The congregation is also in the process of securing some church property for the building of a future meeting house. We thank our good brothers and sister at the Mayfield, AL congregation and for our dear brother and sister from Hoover, AL for making this possible. We are short $1,000 to “close the deal.” If anyone can help, in part or in whole, we say thank you dearly. Till all have heard.....

In Him, 

Cy, Stephanie & Granny

P.S. Happy Thanksgiving to all!

Larger Than Life...A Tribute To Luke Kasarjian

As we move closer to the first of the year, we are seeing more and more from each school about the progress of the work over the past year. We are planning to share news about the development of the overall program a few weeks from now. The news is always exciting to see and to recognize just how much God has blessed the work.

I encourage you to read the wonderful tribute below written by Keith Kasarjian concerning his father. I mentioned the passing of Luke Kasarjian in last week’s report. The tribute below is a great reflection of the character of Keith’s father, a godly Christian man who continues to influence the lives of many.

My Dad was one-of-a-kind and larger than life. Anyone who met him never forgot him. He was a conglomeration of many things that would be conflicting in anyone else. At times he was strict and at others he was downright silly. He could tell the corniest joke you’ve heard one minute and wax philosophical the next. He could irritate you and endear himself in the same span of time.

When I was little, one day while he, Brian, and I were playing on the floor, he lifted both of us off the floor at the same time and I thought that he must be the strongest man in the world. I later learned that probably wasn’t the case, but the years since have revealed a different, more important, strength.

He loved Mom and showed us how you treat a woman. And even though we didn’t like it at the time, he instilled in my brother and I a work ethic that has been good to us and our families. He loved sports, the Boston Red Sox, and FSU Seminoles. He loved to golf, watch the weather channel, and keep up with what everyone was up to on Facebook. He would laugh at the drop of a hat and he’d even drop the hat if he needed to! He loved God and the church and you could tell because those were often present in his conversation. 

He was a very large social butterfly. He had an amazing ability to relate to, and get along with, people of all ages and walks of life. Whether you were 1 or 100, he could find something to talk about to you. And it also didn’t matter if you worked the drive thru window or you were the Mayor, he would treat you the same. 

But perhaps nothing embodied him better than his hands. They were huge and they were strong. He could literally bring grown men to their knees and enjoyed doing so until his last day. Those strong hands also worked hard to provide for his family, they fixed cars, made household repairs, and disciplined sons. But those same hands were surprisingly soft. Those bone-crushing hands were often used to “high 5” a child and to give a big hug to someone and to let a baby wrap their hand around one of his large fingers while he talked baby talk to them. His hands were strong, but they were soft; they were hard, but they were encouraging; they were steel and they were velvet.

And that’s who he was: a man of steel and velvet. Yes, my Dad was one-of-a-kind and larger than life.

Keith Kasarjian

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 latest report from Howell Ferguson can be read here.

Extension Reports 

Physical And Spiritual Growth In Cameroon: To appreciate the efforts in Cameroon, please read the passages associated with the development of this week’s post.

Spiritual Strengthening, A Safari, And Studies: The news from Paraguay is exciting as the school progresses and the church plant is growing.

Conversion And Restoration In Nigeria: Eight souls were added to the kingdom and fifteen were restored as a result of the work at SWSE in Ibadan, Nigeria.

The Gaines Family Arrives In Tanzania: There is excitement in Arusha, as the Gaines family finally arrives to share in the work.

Just A Few More Days, Tanzania Chronicles: The Hochdorf report this week shares news of returning to Tanzania after their furlough.

Sadness And Joy At Kisongo, Tanzania: The report of a funeral in Tanzania is coupled with an overflowing building in worship. Read more about this event. 

Final Thoughts
As we proceed through the final few weeks of the year, we ask you to be praying about the development of the Extension Program in the new year. As we move forward we are going to need your help in every area. Thank you for all you do to help this work improve and grow. We look forward to sharing the progress each week.

God bless
Bob

Sadness And Joy At Kisongo, Tanzania...

"...the Most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands..." Acts 7: 48 

Dear Co-Laborers:

Our deepest sympathy is extended to Keith Kasarjian and his family due to the sudden death of his father, Luke Kasarjian. Keith works with the Bear Valley Bible Institute of Denver extension schools having made numerous trips to Tanzania. From reading the post on Facebook, it seems that Mr. Kasarjian was an amazing Christian man who left behind a great legacy for his family.          

At the funeral of Bertha (member at Kisongo who passed away recently), Ahimidiwe seized the opportunity to invite all of her family and friends to worship with us today. People kept piling in until several of the  regular members were asked to sit outside so the guests could have a seat. We estimated about 225 in attendance (including about 40 guests). It was wall-to-wall people. Jimmy taught the Bible class on "The Deity of Christ" and preached a great sermon on "The Church." Due to bringing additional chairs from the ACSOP and Jimmy wanting to take advantage of teaching so many non-Christians, the Bible class and worship combined totaled 3 1/2 hours (with only a 5 minute break between services). Toward the end of service, tired Elijah whispered, "I like America church services better because on their soft benches you can sleep!" When he heard the first note of the last song he said, "Finally!" Abigail taught the children's class and Philiness taught the ladies on 1 Corinthians 13.

Among the crowd at Kisongo were short-term workers Tom Watkins and Chip Hill (arrived just Thursday night. They have already begun work in Engarenaibor (try to pronounce that!) near the Kenyan border, helping to build a church building. For the next 4 days, they will be holding Bible studies at Namanga and then returning to Engarenaibor to continue building. We've lost count of how many trips they've made to TZ. Tom and Chip are brother-in-laws (having married twin sisters). Also, Chip's daughter, Kaitlyn is married to the Staffords' son, Paul. 

Speaking of the Stafford's, Cy will travel with Jimmy next Saturday to the Kenya School of Preaching in Kisumu, Kenya to teach for two weeks. Jimmy is teaching two graduate classes, O.T. Criticism and Greek Readings (Ephesians). Cy will also be teaching two classes. Our girls are planning another sleep-over while Jimmy is away (last Friday, Mary and Miriam, 18-year-old twin daughters of Elly Martin, spent the night. We have known these beautiful girls since they were 6-years-old...and we have some stories! ha/ha) 

The Gaines family is trying to get more acquainted with the grocery stores and other places in town. In Arusha there are several nice grocery stores. The problem is that everything you need can't be found all at one place. We go to a separate meat market, separate fruit stand, 2 different grocery stores and another store to exchange our 20-liter water bottles and propane gas cylinders. Tiffany and Trina took our children swimming after our shopping (going to a total of 6 places).  The Gaines family worshipped at Arusha today where Daniel preached. 

Fifteen of Kisongo's youth group met at the church building on Saturday. Great news is that some of the youth invited a friend they had been studying with. After the class was over, their friend, Joel, was baptized!

During furlough, we presented the great work to be done through translating English Bible materials (commentaries, etc) into the Swahili language for the ACSOP students to use. Funds should be sent to the Bear Valley church of Christ (address on the left-hand side of this report).  Mark the check "Tanzania 2000 Translation Project." 

Thank you for your part in this growing and fruitful work. TZ 2000 director, Cy Stafford, said this in his report concerning the upcoming ACSOP graduation: 

"In three weeks, 14 faithful evangelists will graduate...These men will return to their home areas, excited, prepared and willing to do the will of the Father.  These good men have given of themselves for the past two years, and now they are ready to use their talents and knowledge to further the Kingdom..."   

Until next week, may the Lord bless and keep you!

With Love from Africa,

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

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

Just A Few More Days...Tanzania Chronicles

It is such a blessing to greet you on behalf of Anita and myself. We are packing up and getting ready for our return to Tanzania. We are most excited about our reunion with the mission team and the great brethren from Tanzania. We still have a couple of appointments left before we return and I will be undergoing some camera training for the new production studio at the Andrew Connally School of Preaching. Needless to say we will be busy right up until our departure.

We offer thanks that Cy Stafford, our mission team leader, has returned safely to Arusha. We were fortunate that, while he was stateside for a whirlwind fundraising trip, he was able to carve out a day we could enjoy some food and fellowship. Cy is a true Barnabas and always leaves people encouraged and motivated to do more in the kingdom.

By the time this report reaches you, Daniel and Tiffany Gaines will have arrived in Tanzania to join the team. Keep them and their children in your prayers as they make the transition to life in a developing country. We know they are up to the challenge and are grateful for their commitment. The Gaines will be a valuable asset to the work and we all look forward to working alongside them.

Lord willing, the next time you hear from us will be from Tanzania. We solicit your prayers as we leave family, friends, and the comforts of home. Until then, take care and God bless.

Yours in Christ,
Sean and Anita Hochdorf 

The Gaines Family Arrives In Tanzania...

Greeting Fellow Servants,

We pray the Lord is blessing your life in a very special way. We hope your life is a life of service to others, to His glory and to the saving of lost souls. We thank you for your prayers. God is faithful and is answering them in a most powerful way. 

Good News: The Gaines have arrived! Amen, Amen, Amen! Daniel, Tiffany, Abby (11 years old), Josiah (2), and Levi (16 months), arrived at 3:40 a.m. Tuesday morning. They were a bit tired but also very excited about this new chapter in their lives. 

We thank God for them, their example and sacrifice. Daniel has dreamed of returning to Africa for many years, having been a “MK” (missionary kid) in Cameroon for three of his early life. Both Daniel and Tiffany are graduates of Freed Hardeman University, Daniel having received his Masters in Ministry and Tiffany her Masters in Education. Please remember this sweet family as they go through the transition of settling in, waiting and clearing of their vehicle, household goods, etc.

Update: We have been raising much needed funds for some special opportunities. One such opportunity is our need to recruit and enroll our largest class to-date at the Andrew Connally School of Preaching. We needed to raise support for an additional 15 students (30 total). God answered our prayers through His faithful. You have answered our challenge with open hearts, open minds and open hands. We have the needed funds for the 2014 intake, thank you all and may our God bless you richly for your amazing generosity. 

A second challenge we put forth was for our desire to distribute 2,500 bibles in the coming year’s campaigns and evangelistic outreach, here in East Africa. Our goal was to raise the needed $15,000 to purchase the bibles. We only lack $2,750 to reach our stated goal. Thank you all for your cheerful giving, a giving that will indeed “keep on giving”. 

Another great blessing we have received is all the funds needed to complete the (currently printed) Truth for Today Commentary set. The students at the Andrew Connally School of Preaching will benefit for years to come as they strive to know our God and His will better, that in turn they might be better equipped in taking the Gospel to the lost of East Africa. Thank you all so very much for making God’s work in Tanzania all it can and should be. 

Prayers Needed: In three weeks 14 faithfully evangelists will graduate the Andrew Connally School of Preaching. These men will return to their home areas, excited, prepared and willing to do the will of the Father. These good men have given of themselves for the past two years, now they are ready to use their talents and knowledge to further the Kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To everyone who has made this possible, through your prayers and support, we say thank you and thank God for His abundant love, mercy and grace. Till all have heard.......

In Him, 

Cy, Stephanie & Granny

Conversion And Restoration In Nigeria...

Dear fellow soldiers of Christ,

Grace and peace be multiplied unto you all from God our Father and from Jesus the Christ and Redeemer.

The Southwest School of Evangelism (SWSE), Ibadan main campus re-opened today for the commencement of 2nd semester classes that, by God's grace, will begin fully on Monday, November 11, 2013.

The students return this Friday to the campus to put things in order for 2nd semester classes.

The SWSE-year 2 students reported the conversion of eight souls and fifteen restoration during their two weeks practicum (teaching practice).

Lord's willing, the staff of both Ibadan and Lagos campus shall be participating in a day preachers' forum organized by Kemta-Idi-Aba congregation, Abeokuta, Ogun state tomorrow, November 9, 2013 and on Sunday at Onikokoro / Gbongudu congregation, Ibadan, I shall be teaching on “The Breadth of Christian Benevolence” (Gal. 6:10) while brother Destiny Elijah, one of SWSE-year 1 students shall admonish the church.

Beloved, thanks for your goodwill. God’s banner of love shall continue to be over us all in Jesus name, Amen.

Sincerely in Christ,

Makinde Ebenezer Olufemi (Director)
For & On behalf of SWSE-Nigeria

Spiritual Strengthening, A Safari, And Studies!

This month has been a real blessing as a lot of great things occurred which were fun, rejuvenating, or just very encouraging. We are excited to bring you news from Paraguay in this month’s mission report! We pray it brings you much joy as we work alongside each other in His kingdom.

DEVELOPMENTS AT AVENIDA SACRAMENTO
We hosted a Scavenger Hunt for the youth group this month. In Paraguay, they call it a “Safari.” We had them go all over town collecting clues and taking pictures in many fun, but odd, requests. After having two hours to complete the tasks, they then arrived at our house for singing, a devotional, and fire-grilled pizza. Several visitors also came and the whole event was just a ton of fun!

Every two years, there is a men’s conference held in Brazil for South American missionaries called “Continent Care Connection.” It is five days of spiritual renewal through some great lessons and seminars, as well as, “recharging” by getting to rest and spend time fellowshipping with other missionaries. My teammate, Josh, and I were able to attend this year and we came back to Paraguay refreshed and ready to tackle more challenges. We’d like to say “Thank you” to all those who made it possible!

DEVELOPMENTS AT ÑEMBY CONGREGATION
Last month we reported that the Ñemby congregation had obtained a place to rent for their worship service. After several weeks of cleaning, painting, and repairing various needed items, they began meeting in the facility this past month. They are blessed with lots of room to grow!

They also held a congregational business meeting to discuss their goals and the direction that the congregation wants to go. It is so exciting to watch this young congregation growing while having the opportunity to assist them in the effort!

ASUNCION BIBLE ACADEMY UPDATE
The students are close to finishing up their third quarter and all are doing very well while continuing to grow spiritually.

They recently participated in a hands-on “baptism workshop” where each had the opportunity to practice how to administer a baptism. We took turns (except for the young lady) practicing what to say and then actually immersing the person. We also practiced how to baptize someone who may be disabled or in a wheelchair.

Brother Ike Yegros taught our short course for this quarter on Romans. We were excited to have Ike in the classroom!

Evangelistic Contacts / Bible Studies / Activities:
Eliezer and I have continued our study with Sandra Durarte. We have now completed the “Searching for Truth” study, which she mostly did on her own, and have discussed baptism along with salvation in great detail. She understands very well but does not yet want to be baptized. So, we will continue to study with her while the Word works on her heart.

I also had the opportunity to study with Gabriel who is a coworker with our sister, Raquel Franco. He is seriously studying what the Bible says about salvation and considering baptism. Please pray for Sandra and for Gabriel.

We also ask you to please pray for our students in our “Learn English Using the Bible” program: José, Max, Martín, Aaron, Felix, Adriana, and Oscar. We are still gaining more contacts and several of these studies are now serious Bible studies.

Please pray for the several new contacts that have been made in Ñemby: Graciela, Issa, Salvadora, and Ruthy.

Other news and upcoming activities:
Our sister in Christ, Norberta Vera passed away this month. Here is what Andrea posted:

“Please pray for our sisters in Christ, Pochi and Mirta, and their family, on the passing of their mother, Norberta. Mirta is our church secretary and has had her elderly mother living in her home for quite some time now. In the Paraguayan culture, everything must be done and the body in its final resting place within 24 hours.

Imagine... working all day, then having your loved one pass at 6pm, the body prepared and ready to receive visitors by 11pm until it is time to leave at 5am for a 5-hour drive to your home town, where there is another receiving of visitors, until finally, before 6 pm, the body is laid to rest.

Although Norberta passed from her physical life at the age of 91, in January of this year, she was blessed with the opportunity to finally have the correct Bible teaching and understanding about God's will for her life. At that very moment, just as we read the examples in the New Testament, she obeyed the Gospel call by putting on her Lord in baptism so that she could enjoy eternal life and receive her reward in Heaven. When we left the family last night, how beautiful it was to hear Pochi say, with a big smile, "Mission complete!", knowing she will see her mother again one day!!!”

Our brother in Christ, Joe King, from Margaret Street COC in Milton, FL is coming to visit next month. Our Annual Men’s Planning Retreat is coming up November 1.

“Mujeres de Fe” Ladies Seminar will be November 9th.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT AND ACTIVITIES
Andrea and I reached a new milestone this month: 18 years of marriage! We praise God for blessing us with a strong marriage and we we pray that we have many more years together.

We recently joined a group called “Ex-Pats in Paraguay” which has turned into a real blessing. We have already made several new friends and some promising Bible study contacts. Not only that, but the collective Paraguayan information they have provided has been very valuable.

Andrea’s cooking business, “Mas Que Dulces” is now legally registered with the Paraguayan government. She is excited about the possibilities because she just loves to cook and this has also been a great avenue for creating Bible study contacts.

Andrea also attended her first cooking class in Spanish! She said it was a lot of fun and enjoyed the activity with some of her friends from the Las Amigas Club.

The Bible study website I developed, “Conocer La Palabra.com” now has more than 20,000 hits from all over Latin America! Other stats show that many of the study helps have also been downloaded and/or forwarded. I am hoping to add even more information real soon. I never imagined that the site would receive this much attention. If you happen to have Spanish materials you would like to add, please contact me. I am so thankful and just pray that God is glorified with every “click”!

Personal study: I am currently reading / have read:

“Communicating for a Change” by Andy Stanley

“The Chronological Life of Christ” by Mark E. Moore

“The Good and Beautiful God” and “The Good and Beautiful Life” by James Bryan Smith

Preaching/teaching opportunities:
I was blessed with the opportunity to preach at Ave. Sacramento and Ñemby this month. My topic was “You are Acts Chapter 29.”

I finished teaching the Asuncion Bible Academy courses on the books of Judges - Ruth and “The Life of Christ IV: Luke.” I am now preparing to teach “I and II Kings” and “Church History” for the next quarter.

Cultural or language discovery:
An interesting but rather sad holiday in Paraguay is Children's Day which is celebrated on August 16. It is a national holiday to commemorate the memory of the children who lost their lives in the Battle of Acosta Ñu/ Campo Grande. It was a terrible battle fought during the Triple Alliance War (1864-70). With Asunción already captured by the enemy and most adult Paraguayan males already killed or captured after four long years of war, the Paraguayan dictator, Mariscal López, still refused to surrender. He began to use children and the elderly in his army to keep up the fight against the triple alliance of Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay. Some of the children even fought with fake beards to conceal their age. On that day, some 2000 died even after another 1,600 had already perished in the battle at Piribebuy.

Troy and Andrea Spradlin

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

Physical And Spiritual Growth In Cameroon...

Dearest in Christ,

Greetings and great joy from your brothers and sisters here. We do hope you are all doing great in what the Lord has entrusted in your hands. We are doing our best here and God is blessing our efforts daily.

Last week went on well concerning our studies in CBIW, except for the fact that some students could not fully attend classes because of their ill health. Praise God that our sister Ruth Wase, the nurse, was here to administer them some drugs in our box. They are getting much better, keep us in your prayers lots of people are having some health trouble now because the climate is changing from rainy season to dry season.

This weekend some students were assigned to 3 locations for mission: Ediki, Batoke and the last week revived congregation of Bafia. They returned with good news about growth and how God is doing His work in those places. The Ediki is going well with the remodeling of their old building which was in ruins. Keep this congregation in your prayers.

Batoke keeps witnessing growth and nurturing from our students on a weekly basis, while the congregation in Bafia as there was an increase from 10 at worship last Sunday to 11, as sister Lydia Lelia obeyed the gospel. Keep them in your prayers that God continues His work.

As I write this mail, we are thankful to God that all the students who went out for weekend evangelism have returned on campus without any major problem, but with great news about God working in many ways to accomplish His mission on earth.

This is sister Karine Muofo who was baptized last week, a French speaking sister. She smiled after receiving a French Bible from me. We are having French Bibles for French speaking brethren who are new converts as we cut across both French and English communities.

Today was another day of fellowship in the Wotutu congregation as the congregation has made a new habit to have a football match with the students of CBIW once in the two years of their stay in Wotutu during their studies. CBIW students wore red shirts, while the youth of the Wotutu congregation, along with a mix of some visiting ministers, like minister Tobias and minister Itali wore yellow shirts. It was a great match even though the youth of the Wotutu congregation carried the day by defeating our students 2 goals to zero (1 Tim. 4:8).

Plans
1) CBIW students will start their exams early enough to meet with with the invitation for us to have a mass campaign in the Tombel area for the Annual Bible Lectureship.

2) Pray for the annual gospel Bible lectureship which will be coming by the end of this month.

Appreciations
God bless you for all your prayers and support towards the work here. We say thank you and God bless you when He will return to reward His servants. He will not pass you by. God bless you all. Do your best please to share our reports with others.

Elangwe and family

By His grace Director CBIW

Another Great Man Of God Has Gone Home...

Yesterday evening, Keith Kasarjian and his father, Luke, were headed to see a Florida State football game when Keith’s father suffered a sudden heart attack and left this world for a world far better. The influence of a godly man is best seen in the lives of his family and people he touched. Based on the comments to Keith and his family, Luke Kasarjian provided a Christian example that will have a long lasting impact around the world. Please remember to pray for the Kasarjian family during this time. 

The past, present and future all play a significant part of this week’s report. The past week was one filled with great news in the extension work. Reports share news about God’s working through the students to reach out with the gospel of Jesus. Souls have been added to the kingdom and others continue to learn about our Savior.

The present is filled with joy over a day to worship God. The reports also speak of today’s activities by encouraging the brethren, praising the Creator and Sustainer of all. Also, reports indicate that today was one where the gospel was shared with others who have yet so submit their lives in obedience to the Lord. We ask that you pray their hearts will be receptive.

The future shares great optimism. There is confidence the Lord will bless the foundation laid in the past, the efforts of the present and plans for the future. Over the next two months we will be gathering information about the progress of 2013 and planning the direction of 2014. Preliminary statistics indicate the year behind us was filled with the power of God’s blessings.

We pray with the knowledge that God will continue to bless our plans to glorify Him through preparing students to share the gospel throughout the world. Please read on and pray with us as we build on the past, stand secure in the present and plan for the future.

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 latest report from Steven Ashcraft concerning the work in West Africa is here.

Extension Reports 

Weekend Evangelism Yields Fruit In Cameroon: Students returning from their weekend evangelism shows the hand of God giving the increase.

Students Recruited In Russia For BVBIU: Dennis Sopelnik recently returned from a trip to Russia where he was recruiting students for future classes at BVBIU.

Jum Reap Sooh - Only In Cambodia: After a busy couple months, the work in Cambodia continues to grow as a new student joins the program.

Two Reports From Nigeria Show Progress: News from the Southwest School of Evangelism provides news of the progress in preaching and teaching.

Success In The Tanzania 2000 Mission Work: Read about the success Cy Stafford experienced after a month long trip on behalf of the TZ2000 work.

Gratitude From The Gee Family: With the quick response to help repair the Gee’s van, they are expressing gratitude, plus a few extras in the news. 

Final Thoughts
Thank you for all you do to help the work of the extension training program. God continues to work through you to provide for every area needed in this work. We need you and thank you for the blessing you are to Lord’s kingdom.

God bless
Bob

Gratitude From The Gee Family...

Dear Family, Friends and Supporters,

Thankfulness.  "... what thanks can we render to God for you in return for all the joy with which we rejoice before our God on your account?"  (I Thess. 3:9) Overflowing with gratitude for your response to our request for vehicle repair funds, we "admitted" the Prado into the shop! After being "released" it not only is running great but the locks and horn are also working! We're especially thankful for the promptness in your generosity. "We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brethren, as is only fitting..."  (II Thess. 1:3)

Blessed with rain today! The dust is out of the air and it's nice and cool. We love Tanzanian weather in the Kisongo area. The days are either like early summer (not too hot) or autumn...which is perfect. We love the coziness of staying inside during the rains and the freshness afterwards.

Teaching the ladies' class was Ludovica (Mama Abigale). Although the attendance has been down, there was still a good group of ladies wanting to learn. Abigail taught the children about the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus. In worship, Jimmy preached on "Who Has Time to Serve God?"

A dry baptistery sits at the Kisongo building because no water has been piped there for now. Everyone walks to the ACSOP for baptisms.

Fun was had on Friday night at our costume party. Heather and Happiness dressed as "country girls," and to the other extreme, Candace dressed "Gothic" (she looked like "Wednesday" from the "Adams' Family" show). Abigail was "Abigail" from the Bible, Stuart and David were “hippies," Naomi was a little chef and Elijah was a "white dementor." 

And Elijah said..."This is my champagne!" He and his brothers were making forts outside one day when we overheard his remark and questioned what he meant. He replied, "you know, it's like that building at Backwoods Christian Camp that has candy and cokes."  He meant "canteen."  ha/ha  

May your week be blessed and may we all be thankful for our many blessings (since this is the "Thankful Month"). Speaking of blessings, the Daniel Gaines' Family is due to arrive early Tuesday morning. We just know they are going to be a positive addition to the TZ 2000 Mission Team!   

With Love from Africa,

The Jimmy Gee family

Success In The Tanzania 2000 Mission Work...

Greetings Fellow Servants;

Wow, what a month. God has answered your prayers and has blessed me with safe travels and much success in my travels and reporting. God also answered our prayers blessing Stephanie and Granny with safety as well. We are so blessed to have such a wonderful Christian family that care and pray for us daily. Thank you all for all you do for the Kingdom, the Stafford family and the Tanzania 2000 mission work in general. 

My recent trip to the States, for the purpose of reporting on the work and fund raising for the various needs, was met with much enthusiasm and generosity. After traveling over 6,000 road miles into 8 different States, sleeping in no less than 14 different beds, presenting the work to nine different congregations, two mission committees, three Elderships and several individuals, sharing with each the good being done in Tanzania and throughout East Africa.  

We now have full funding for the new intake of 30 students for the 2014 intake. We have also received funds for half of the 2,500 Bibles goal. The monthly support Stephanie and I will lose at the end of the year has been committed. We have funds for 5 of the 10 sets of TFT commentaries we need. We received a lot of Bible teaching material from World Video Bible School in both English and Ki-Swahili. 

We have a very special challenge; A good brother in Christ has committed up to $5,000 in matching funds for printing the T.E.A.M. Booklet, Bible Correspondence Courses and Bible Tracts. So, for every dollar committed/donated we will get twice the value (bang of the buck). No donation is to small, please help us reach our printing goal for 2014 of $15,000. 

We are blessed with many talented men and women here in TZ, working side-by-side with us. One area that is so desperately needed is in the area of translation. We need men like our good brother Charles Heberth to do the work that God’s work might be done in a powerful way. Here is a snap shot of his work for the past month:

“In September, I taught a short course (1 week) in Hebrews here at the school followed by The Old Testament History 2 for six weeks. The same month, I started the edification program which was designed to enable members to be able to do evangelism and work for their own salvation. This is because of few workers which we have here at Kwa Mrombo. This program will end today (Thursday the 31st of October). This same month I started back on the translation of "Searching For The Truth" DVDs which I left off before the campaigns. All this is because of the support and prayers which you offer on our behalf daily. Thank you so much, Charles Heberth”

It is a blessing and privilege to work with such men. The joy we receive daily as we work hand in hand with our God and His Church is a most wonderful thing. We thank you all for your part in this work of God. As we strive to Glorify Him through our good deeds to the saving of lost souls, we invited you to join us. Join us when you can, where you can, as you can. Our hope and prayer is that our God will bless you all with a double measure this week as you SERVE your neighbor. 

In Him,
Cy, Stephanie & Granny

Two Reports From Nigeria Show Progress...

Dear fellow soldiers of Christ,

Grace and peace be multiplied unto you all from God our Father and from our Lord and Sustainer, Jesus Christ.

On Sunday morning. October 27, 2013, two of our prospects named, Joy Audu, and her son, Friday Audu, were baptized before the morning worship at Onikokoro / Gbongudu congregation, Ibadan.

Brother Samuel Arowolo, one of the year 2 students of SWSE-Ibadan, taught on “Family Life;” while brother Samuel Oladokun, another year 2 student, admonished the church on “Love.” We are 56 in attendance with a total collection of N3,060=.

In the afternoon, I taught at the youth class on “Making your Calling and Election Sure” from 2 Peter 1:10, and in the evening, brother Samuel Arowolo, brother Kayode Solomon Eniafe and I served as officiating ministers at the marriage of brother Dele Shotola, one of the August 2013 graduates, and sister Foluke Oguntunde at Oke-Dam Village, Akinyele, L.G.A. Oyo State.

Beloved, we thank you all for your love and dedication for the cause of Master Jesus. May the Lord of blessing continue to bless all our joint efforts in Christ name, Amen.

Sincerely His & yours,

Makinde Ebenezer Olufemi (Director)
Southwest School of Evangelism (SWSE), Ibadan, Nigeria

THE SUCCESSFUL STUDENTS FOR 2013/2014 ACADEMIC SESSION SWSE-IBADAN MAIN CAMPUS

We praise Thee, O God! For the Son of Thy love, For Jesus who died, and is now gone above, Hallelujah! Thine the glory, Hallelujah Amen! Hallelujah! Thine the glory, Amen! Hallelujah! (SC. 446, SS-17, Yor. 361).

This is one of the three hymns used by the students and staff of Southwest School Of Evangelism (SWSE), Ibadan to round up this first semester of classes and tests!

From the inception of the School in 2003, the first semester is known as the most costly semester due to the numbers of the students admitted to prove themselves both in the class and in the field before the final list is drawn at the end of first semester classes and examinations.

Thirty-One (31) students are now qualified for the 2013-2014 Academic Session in Ibadan’s main campus while six will continue their studies in the Lagos satellite campus for 2013 / 2014 academic session.

Brethren, the report getting to me this morning from my fellow instructors at both the Ibadan and Lagos campus shows that brother Isaac Olaniyan and brother Abiola  Joseph Olusoji have a convert each while brother Dairo Joseph Abiodun reported the conversion of two souls during their end of the month open air Bible lectureship.

Brother Ezekiel Okoh reported that over 800 people were recruited for free WBS correspondence courses at Sari-Iganmu, Ikeja and Iyana Ipaja and brother Dele Shotola and brother Kayode Solomon Eniafe did follow-up on WBS students of Keith Bowman SC/006 in Ilisan and Ijebu Ode, Ogun State from Monday through Thursday (October 21-24, 2013).

Also, brother Gideon O. Iluman, one of our August 2013 graduates reported the conversion of five souls in this month at the Campus congregation, Port Harcourt, River State where he is ministering.

Beloved, we cannot do without appreciating the vital roles you are all playing in making our dream of saving souls from eternal condemnation a reality! Please continue praying for us (2 Thess. 3:1). May the Lord of blessing continue to bless all our joint effort in Christ Jesus, Amen.

Yours truly, 

Makinde Ebenezer Olufemi (Director)
Southwest School of Evangelism (SWSE) Ibadan, Nigeria.

Jum Reap Sooh - Only In Cambodia...

Jum reap sooh brothers and sisters in Christ! Hope all of you are serving Christ well in your part of the world. As for the work of Jesus Christ in Siem Reap, Cambodia, God has been very good to us here. We are thankful for every blessing He's given us and ask that He does the same for you. 

We are thankful for the McDonough’s, for their humility and their efforts with the local work here. We are thankful for the local brethren and their steadfastness. We are thankful for Keith Kasarjian, the Autrey’s, and Phil Woolley for their sacrifice and demonstration of love towards us the past few weeks. We are thankful for Jeff Bell and his wife visiting us again. It's too bad we didn’t get to spend much time together but the little time that we did spend was precious. 

What eventful months September and October were for us here. We began our 2nd school year in September with Chann teaching Church History, Darat teaching 1 and 2 Chronicles, Piseth teaching Psalms, and me teaching 1 and 2 Corinthians. The planting and watering continues with IBISR, yet we never forget the One who gives the increase. We added a new student in Sovannara and what a promising young man he is to our program. 

Keith Kasarjian visited and taught us on the subject of the Godhead and did a very good job. The students and the staff benefited much from his teachings. We got to know God on a more deeper level thanks to him. Then Wes, his wife, Teri, and daughter Natalie, along with Phillip Woolley spent two unforgettable weeks with us teaching and fellowshipping with the local brethren. What an awesome example they were to the group here. We see the manifold wisdom of God through them (Eph 3:10). I, personally, am thankful for their visit and the encouragement they bring to me as the local missionary here. I am grateful for their wisdom, their company, their jokes, and more importantly their love. These are the things that help keep me going and serving God in this part of the world. I covet your prayers and continual support. I look forward to your visits. I am thankful for your encouragements. Please keep them coming because they do make a difference! 

Phanat

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

Students Recruited In Russia For BVBIU...

Dear brothers, families and churches.

In my report I want to share with you the news of some events that took place at the Institute, in church, and in the lives of some Christians. October was full of events. Sometimes we are looking forward to something and pray for it, and then we receive far more than we could ever imagine. I’m sure God is still helping those people who are His followers.

In October, I went to Syktyvkar, Komi Republic, Russia. There was an annual meeting of church of Christ ministers in Russia. I’ve acquired many new friends, acquaintances and contacts. I presented our Institute there and had a chance to tell them about our experience with this ministry in Ukraine. There are some churches in that part of Russia that are in need of ministers. I have a plan to send some of our graduates to Russia for their further ministry there. Please pray with us for our students, for their dedication and for the growth of the churches in Europe. 

I have some very good news. Lyudmila, a wife of our student Sergey, was baptized. Sergey’s story is very unusual. He contacted me many times via phone calls, inquired some details about the Institute, but every time his plans changed and his admission to school was postponed yet to another school year. And only this year he made a decisive step and entered our program. He moved to Gorlovka together with his family. He has a wife and a 4-month-old son, Ivan. We rent an apartment for them in the same building where we live, and we often invite them to our place to visit with us. Once Sergey came and told us that his wife wants to be baptized, and in a few days she became a part of God’s family.

Other good news is that our students Alexey and Alina got married. It’s a first wedding at BVBIU since we moved to Gorlovka. These young people made a very important and responsible decision, and we showed them our support and hope that their relationships will be as strong as the one Jesus has with His church.   

On October 19, we had a youth conference, and the topic was “When to Act Rightly.” We had about 35 people in attendance from different church of Christ congregations. Such meetings always bring encouragement to young people and help them understand that they are not alone in their pursuit of heaven. 

Often we have to do things that don’t bring us joy. In October we had to say goodbye to the second-year student, Roman Rotan. It’s not his first expulsion from this school. He promised to become a diligent student, but his attitude and behavior wasn’t Christ like in many situations. I’ve spent a lot of time with him; nevertheless, he made a decision not to be with God and his spiritual family. I ask you to pray for him. 

Right now it’s a time of evangelizing campaigns at our Institute. Our students went to different church of Christ congregations (Gorlovka, Kramatorsk, Illovaysk, Konstantinovka), and our secretary Oksana went to teach Bible classes for kids in Dimitrovo. This ministry encourages local churches and preachers, and it is a good practice for our students. Usually during 3-4 days, students spread flyers and invitations to come to church, and they teach Bible classes in the evenings. Sometimes they visit church members who grew colder in their ministry. We know that each one of us has an obligation to evangelize. 

My family sends you their greetings, and we are sure that you keep praying for us. Thank you for your support and care about the Institute and the church. You are a part of this work, and we keep doing it together. 

God’s blessings,

Your brother and co-worker,

Dennis Sopelnik

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

Weekend Evangelism Yields Fruit In Cameroon...

Dearest in Christ,

Greetings from your brothers and sisters here in Cameroon. We do hope you and your entire family are doing great also over there. It is amazing what the Lord is doing with His great love to us in this sinful world.

Last week in the CBIW family went well, just for some students and members of the Wotutu congregation who are down in health. God is helping us in many ways because of the situation and condition many are living into it.

Sister Karine Muofo obeyed the gospel in Wotutu. She is purely French speaking. We need to get a French Bible for her. Keep her in your prayers.

The students are doing their best as they prepare for ministry in a year time; how time keeps going. They will soon start writing their long course exams by the end of this month, while the first week of December will be a short course and vacation and they will be done with the first year of their studies.

All of us are back from weekend evangelism, as some students went out to 5 locations. They came back with joyous reports as we join the host of Heaven to praise God. The Ediki work is progressing and the members of that congregation are appreciative to God for the revival of their spirit as they continue to worship God. The Batoke congregation is moving on well. Our students continue to go there for weekend evangelism and it is creating an impact in the community. Students return safe in other places.

The cry of a sister in Bafia village, who called us to come and help them, was heard. God heard her cry as we listened and thought of the souls there. We sent some students there over the weekend and now the Bafia congregation has been revived and 10 souls were restored and they started worshiping today. We shall continue to do the follow up until next year where a graduate will go there permanently for full time ministry. Keep this work in your prayers.

CBIW students in Bafia village were excited after baptizing brother Cletus over the weekend. Please keep this young man in your prayers.

Sister Karine and some members of Wotutu congregation sand to the glory of God after her baptism.

Sister Ruth Wase is now part of the CBIW family as a school nurse because the government demanded schools should have medical personnel to help watch out for the health conditions of those in the school and the community. I pleaded with sister Ruth who accepted to come and be a volunteer in CBIW and also in Brightland Christian Academy. She has been here now for the past week and she is doing a great job. She is a young widow and has a child. She is a state registered nurse qualified to help save some in emergencies. Her stay with us will be beneficial to the work here as we dream big about a mobile Christian clinic in the future into the villages as we preach. We shall help those who cannot afford and do not have access to primary health care. Come and dream with us.

Brother Dikana, one of our students received treatment in the dormitory. This makes it less expensive for us to rush our students to the hospital. Brother Dikana is has malaria, so the sister can now treat right on campus rather than going to Limbe. All we need to do is to buy enough drugs and stock in our small clinic. We have a cupboard and a small bed that can handle a patient on a more serious condition.

Plans
1) We are planning to continue with follow up in all our areas of work.

2) We were invited to attend our national annual Bible lectureship the end of this month in Tombel. Please keep the trip in your prayers.

Appreciations
God alone will bless and reward you for all that you are doing for the work here. Thank you. We keep you in our prayers. Please keep us in your prayers. Share our report with others. God bless you.

Elangwe and family
By His grace Director CBIW

Harvest Sunday...

Harvest Sunday! The Levy Church of Christ each year hosts what is called Harvest Sunday. This day represents the opportunity to focus on the mission work this congregation has been involved in supporting. The good that has and continues to be done by this congregation is a blessing on a global scale. There is not enough space to share the reaches of their support and the benefit they have provided for missionaries worldwide.

Sheryl and I have been blessed by the Levy family for more than 20 years and we were excited to be involved in this special day. We are always amazed at the generosity expressed from a family of Christians who love the Lord, love one another, love the lost, and love to be involved in kingdom work. Thank you for your vision and generosity in supporting the Lord’s work.

Another quarter is underway in Denver, as returning students were involved in campaigns around the U.S. and in Guatemala. Even though students have returned, we are still receiving news of souls being added to the kingdom as a result of their efforts. The news is exciting as God continues to bless the preaching of the gospel.

Throughout the extension program, news about the ways God is giving the increase highlights the beautiful nature of the work. The dedication and effort put forth by the students who are preparing to preach the gospel is wonderful to share.

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 

Helping Young Minds Know Christ: The gospel is being preached and young minds are gaining a knowledge of Christ and are excited to share it with others.

The Right Men In The Right Positions: Reflecting on the leadership in the Kenya School of Preaching shows the right men were selected for administration of the school.

Vocational Classes Help Prepare Students: Along with other classes, students in Nigeria are taking vocational classes to learn how to support themselves after graduation.

Help Us Help Them Help Themselves: The goal of the work at the Andrew Connally School of Preaching is to help these students help their own people.

Drop A Pebble In The Water: The impact of one person who shares the gospel with someone else brings incredible changes. 

Final Thoughts
We are thankful for the opportunity to share news about the extension program at Levy, and thankful for the generosity they have provided for the Lord’s work. We are also thankful to each of you for the ways you bless the training of preachers. Without each individual part working together it would not work. Thank you all!

God bless
Bob