Students Are Actively Preaching In Nigeria...

Dearest in Christ Jesus,

Greetings in the wonderful name of our Lord and Redeemer Jesus Christ from staff and students of the Southwest School of Evangelism (SWSE) Ibadan and Lagos campus.

I taught on Sunday, March 9 at the Onikokoro / Gbongudu congregation, Ibadan on “Item of Worship…Singing,” while brother Okon S.Udoh admonished the church from Jer. 9:1-9.

One of our year 2 students named brother John Zege Tobi taught on “Think on These Things” at the Ofada congregation, Ogun state on March 9, 2014 and a soul was added to the Lord's body after that morning worship.

A year one student named brother Segun Idowu on March 9 taught on “Christian Responsibilities Toward One Another” at Asejire congregation, Osun state while another year 1 student named brother Godwin Ede, who is also an evangelist working with the Wasimi congregation, Osun state, taught on “What Makes You a Christian.” Brother Gbenga Ilori, a year 1 student taught at the Egbeda congregation in Egbeda L.G.A. Oyo state on “Positive and Negative Fear.”

At the Jago congregation, Ona-Ara L.G.A.Oyo state, brother Alabi Ishmael Oladapo, a year 1 student, taught on “Effective Prayer,” while another year 1 student named Akinade Oluwaseun admonished the church on “The Purity of Life.”

At the campus church-SWSE, Ibadan, brother Festus Ayoo, a year 1 student taught on “The Life of Christ,” while brother Abraham Idu Yeje, the campus minister and one of our year 2 students admonished the church on “Christ-The Hope of the World.”

Brethren, another five of our year 2 students who are presently an evangelists working with their congregation in Lagos, Ogun and Ondo state, such as brother Adekunle Olanrewaju, brother Augustine Odo, brother Raphael Adeyehun, brother Abiodun Lawrence and brother Faleye Joseph, also taught the Sunday school classes of March 9, 2014 at their respective congregation.

Brethren, we thank you all for your love and partnership.

In conclusion, I'm using this medium to state once again our urgent needs at the SWSE-Ibadan main campus at Butubutu, Oyo state, Nigeria.

OUR URGENT NEEDS:
The sum of N480,000 ($3,200) is needed to balance this year’s budget for the 2013/2014 academic session.

We also need the sum of N400,000 ($2,700) for digging a water bore hole at the school site.

Thanks for your consideration! Stay blessed and be strong in the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Sincerely His & yours,

Makinde Ebenezer Olufemi (Director of studies)
Southwest School of Evangelism (SWSE) Ibadan & Lagos campus

News Out Of Togo Is Exciting...

The Nyiveme congregation was blessed with eight baptisms in January. CBS student, Djambacou, was baptized as well as the wife of student Assuka. The Lord is blessing the Kpalime area churches of Christ through evangelism by students and the weekly radio program.

The Kpalime area churches met to wish each other a happy and a prosperous New Year. The occasion was also used to plan programs for inter-congregational activities. The preacher’s wives also met to launch their annual women’s program.

CBS organizes a three day campaign
Rodrigue, instructor at CBS and the preacher at the Avetonu Church of Christ requested the assistance of CBS in a 3 day gospel outreach program. The goal of this program was to strengthen the Atiyi Church of Christ and to win more souls. Evangelists present included: Rodrigue, Cephas, Raymond and Jean. Students who were part of the team were Daniel and Nicodemus. The Alikpoji Church of Christ also participated in this outreach program.

Three congregations to benefit from Church building fund
It was a great joy to know that brother Walter of the Blanco Church has donated $1,500.00 to help provide a meeting places for three congregations. There are still several more congregations needing help. One couple, Aaron and Brittany Morrison, has also adopted two preachers with $100.00 each month and has donated $1,000.00 towards two more church buildings.

10 more congregations need places of worship
Funds have been disbursed for work to begin on the construction of a meeting place for the Hanyigba and Tutu congregations. The following congregations are also in need of a place to worship: Tsame, Atakpame, Kpadape, Notse, Agoe, Tugbli, Klime, Danyinu, Zomayi, and Yorkele.

Note: The Agou congregation has started meeting in a rented building, so the fund will be used by another congregation for now.

The Zomayi congregation is trying to secure land in the area where they meet before the construction can take place. We are therefore providing funds to those who have access to land for construction. Names of preachers who are supported and congregations benefiting from the building fund will be published in my next newsletter

The Tsame Church of Christ was started by one of our current students. While in the denomination, he started five churches. Now he is helping to convert all the churches he had started to become the Church of Christ. He is facing a lot of challenges, but is committed to the process. The principal (Cephas) continues to teach these new Christians and those who are yet to be baptized. One of the congregations that meets under bamboo sticks and palm branches are brethren who have renounced denominationalism and have embraced the teachings of the New Testament. Continue to pray for the Tsame Church of Christ. The land on which they are meeting is a half plot that the owner is ready to sell to them, but they do not have the funds. Imagine what happens should it rain on Sunday.

Adoption Project
Are you interested in adopting a congregation by supporting the preacher with a $100 each month and helping to build a meeting place at a cost of $500? You will receive a monthly report from the preacher and establish communication with the congregation?

Attah is one of our recent graduates and now teaches the French class. He also assists David Wamma, the preacher at Akpadape.

CBS students conduct Christian service to reduce cost of construction
Work progresses steadily on the Tutu church building. The Kpadape congregation is to be renovated. Brother Hershel Walters of the Blanco Church of Christ sent $1,500.00 for the construction of meeting places for three congregations. Funds have already been provided for construction work at Tutu and Hanyigba and renovation work will also be carried out on the Akpadape meeting place.

Two preachers receive help
Assuka is a 2013 graduate of CBS. He is now working with the Zomayi congregation and helps with the World radio sponsored weekly radio program. Assuka is married to Matilda (a petty trader) and they have one child. The Zomayi congregation is new and came out of a denomination.

Jean is a 2007 graduate of CBS. He came to the school as a baptist, but was baptized six months into the course. He worked as an associate minister at the Nyiveme Church of Christ and later planted the Hanyigba congregation. Recently he started teaching at CBS. He is married and has three sons. Jean has worked faithfully without support since 2007. The wife is a nurse at the Kpalime government hospital.

New Preacher Training School starts in Doboro Eeastern Region near Accra
Opening ceremony of Southern Institute of Biblical Studies was held on the 14th of February. I was able to visit for the opening ceremonies. More on the new school is found on Bear Valley’s website.

Gospel Chariot Evangelism Tour
The evangelism tour started on the 15th of January and had to be halted for reinforcement of some of the metals under the truck. The work has been completed and we are about to resume the tour from the 13th of March.

From the 15th of January thru the 13th of February, eleven congregations in eleven different locations were visited resulting in 30 baptisms. One could see the joy on the faces of brethren when the Chariot rolls into town. Christian brethren have been greatly encouraged by our presence.

Activities on the tour included the following: Public preaching each night, visit to high schools in town, tract distribution at the WBS stand, personal bible studies, counseling, enrollment of students for WBS Bible correspondence course, teaching and preaching in the local congregations.

The Chariot came in at the right time when many congregations were yearning for the rekindling of passion for evangelism. God is touching the hearts of many and the church is receiving much publicity in towns and villages.

Ghana-Togo Mission
Work on the three classroom shed is almost complete. It will house Nursery, KG 1 and KG 2.

Parent / Teacher Meeting
Parents and teachers met recently to deliberate on pertinent issues affecting the growth of the school. Such a meeting will be held once every semester. Contact me to enquire how you may partner with Mars Hill to educate these young ones. These children are future members of the Church in Golokuati and beyond.

Mission Printing
A leader from a local congregation loading boxes of tracts onto a taxi. Congregations use the tracts in house to house evangelism and also give them out to visitors present during worship services.

Gospel Chariot Mission Statistics

Congregations visited - 11
Baptisms - 30
Tracts distributed - over 4000
New students enrolled - 4094

Report by Willie Gley

Spiritual Warfare: ACSOP...

“Finallly, be strong in the Lord, and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil” (Eph. 6:10, 11).

Joseph was called by his brothers a dreamer (Gen. 37:19). His entire family didn’t comprehend the meaning of his dreams. At the end Joseph said, “And as for you, ye meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive” (Gen. 50:20). God communicated His message back then in “….divers portions and in divers manners” (cf. Heb. 1:1). Today he communicates through His inspired word.  

Soldiers of the cross today dream how to “save much people alive,” spiritual speaking, by obeying the Great Commission. The command has explicitly stated, but the how (method) to fulfill it is left on our shoulders. The Andrew Connally School of Preaching has dreamt big! Since 2003, when ACSOP began, up to now 142 (included 8 who’ll graduate 2014) graduated from the ACSOP. This years (2014) 22 new students have enrolled in school.  

When Joseph attempted to educate his family about his dreams is when he got himself into trouble. It’s also true today that when we convince brethren what we believe will work for the kingdom of God is when we get ourselves into trouble sometimes. TZ 2000 mission effort has done much in this part of the world. The outcome will be evident for many years to come. Leaders of this effort have dreamt big, yes I mean big! We’ve faced challenges as Joseph did, but at the end we’ve witnessed saved souls and Christians being built up. As I assess the church before this effort and now the big difference is evident! As it’s said “educate the world, and it’ll be a better place to live.” Since the world economic is uncertain, the only treasured thing you can leave for us is education; which none will take away from us.     

Yesterday, I received a call from Mtwara (South of Tanzania) Dolphin a widow pleading with me to send someone with the gospel to the lost souls. How can we do that? By training faithful men who are ready to share the good news. Another call from Kigoma (West of Tanzania) “the church at Singida desperately needs a preacher.” The answer to all of those calls  is from “our dream.” ACSOP and other schools worldwide to train faithful men and send them out. 

A word cannot thank you enough for what you’re doing for the lost souls. Your prayers, support, encouraging words, etc. are much appreciated. May God richly bless you. Amen. 

My wife and I will be attending the Memphis School of Preaching Lectureship this year (March 30 – April 3rd). It is going to be my first time to be there since I graduated in 1998. 

In His service, 
Christopher, Julia & Children

The Excitement Keeps Coming In Extension Training...

Wow! This has been another full week in the extension program. The reports from coordinators and schools indicate how God is blessing the work. An excitement fills the air to read about souls coming to Christ, Christians being edified, and the prodigals returning home. We believe you will agree when you read through the reports.

This week’s report also shares news from the new school in Nsawam / Doboro, Ghana. Brother Seth Larbi sent a report this week about the opening of the new school. Tony Johnson, coordinator with the Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies (TIBS) in Northern Ghana also reports about the great news of the work extending further to the north into the country of Burkina Faso, but the news from the activity of students and graduates of TIBS is far more exciting. You will want to read Tony’s report.

The week ahead focuses on the annual ITL Lectureship in Guatemala. This lectureship is a highlight every year for several reasons, the primary reason being the pinning of students who have completed their first year of studies. They are pinned with the ITL fishhook, indicating what they have accomplished and what they are preparing to do when they graduate. The annual ITL presidential banquet is an event students look forward to as they prepare for their second year of study and with a focus of being fisher’s of men.

This is only the beginning of what you will find in reading through the reports this week along with an anticipation of what is coming in the week ahead. We are privileged to have you involved in this work and pray you will be encouraged by the news about God’s kingdom work.

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/

Steven Ashcraft’s report about the work in West Africa can be read here.

An update from Howell Ferguson on the situation in Ukraine is can be read here.

Extension Reports 

Students Prepare To See 26 Villages In Cameroon: After completing two weeks of intensive short-courses, students of CBIW are headed out for campaigns.

Working In The Upper East Region And Burkina Faso: The report from Tony Johnson is exciting, as the work is moving into new areas.

Joy In The Midst Of Political Turmoil In Ukraine: While there is unrest in the government of Ukraine, there is joy in the birth of a baby girl.

More Souls Added To The Kingdom In Nigeria: Doug Wheeler continues to work with the SWSE in Nigeria and souls are being added to the kingdom.

Classes Begin At SIBS Doboro, Ghana: The doors are open and students are involved in studying as they begin their two year journey at SIBS.

Two Weddings And Three Baptisms Between Two Continents: The work in Paraguay influences lives physically (weddings) and spiritually (baptisms).

Eager Students In Arusha, Tanzania: The news from Daniel Gaines share the excitement and enthusiasm of working with others who thirst for more Bible knowledge.

Final Thoughts
As we close another week in the extension program, we thank you for all you do for this work. Reading through the reports raises the level of excitement to what God is doing through so many wonderful people. We are blessed and privileged to work with you in the greatest work on earth. More is coming in the weeks ahead.

God bless
Bob

More Souls Added To The Kingdom In Nigeria...

Beloved in Christ Jesus,

Greetings to you all in the blessed Name of our Lord and Redeemer Jesus the Christ.

Firstly, we thank the Lord for granting brother Doug Wheeler a successful outreach in this year’s preaching trip to Nigeria-the great Nation of Africa.

Secondly, we thank you, our American and Canadian brethren, for your love for us in Africa, most especially Nigeria.

I worked with brother Doug Wheeler from February 24 through March 1, 2014 featuring the World Bible School seminar, Bible Lectureship and Leadership seminar in Akure-Ondo state on February 24; Ipetu-Ijesha, Ijebu-Jesha, Esa-Oke and Kajola in Osun state on February 25; Egbeda-Ibadan on February 26; Owode-Yewa and Ajibawo in Ogun state on February 27 & 28, 2014.

A soul was converted at the Esa-Oke Bible lectureship and two at Owode-Yewa at the WBS seminar. TO GOD BE THE GLORY !

On March 1, 2014 at a leadership seminar held at Lawanson congregation, Lagos state. Brother Doug Wheeler was the guest speaker.

On Sunday at Onikokoro / Gbongudu congregation, Ibadan. I taught on Giving....Item of Worship while brother Gabriel Ishom admonished the church from Romans 7:14-25.

On March 1, the students and staff of SWSE-Ibadan evangelized Agbede,Tadi and Bansinde villages and a soul was converted.

On Sunday at the campus church, one of our year 1 students named brother Optimism Onyeanulam taught on the Holy Spirit, while the campus minister, who is also one of our year 2 students named brother Abraham Idu Yeje admonished the church from Matthew 4:1-10.

Brethren, the students and staff of SWSE-Lagos campus and some of our graduates (brother Samuel Dada, brother Lawrence Abiodun) and a SWSE-foundation member named brother Paul Akinwale and a WBSFUW named brother Matthew Adeyemi evangelized two villages in Nigeria / Republic of Benin boarder on February 7-9 and 14-16 and two congregations were planted in each of this villages (Aferiku and Ajegunle)

Beloved, we thank you all for your partnership! May the Lord of blessing continue to bless all our joint efforts in Christ name, Amen.

I remain your fellow-worker in Christ Jesus,

Makinde Ebenezer Olufemi (Director of studies)
Southwest School of Evangelism (SWSE), Ibadan & lagos campus, Nigeria

Update On Ukrainian Situation...

Greetings to all of you who support and love the Lord's church in Ukraine!

A number of people have asked me, "What is going on in Ukraine?" At this point, I feel like I'm just a collector of information. Like you, I get most of my information watching/reading news stories and articles. However, I've also received some direct correspondence with Dennis Sopelnik, BVBIU director in Gorlovka, as well as from other individual Ukrainians. As far as major political information on what leaders of different nations are saying or doing, you know as much as I do if you have been watching/reading the news. However, below are some details that I have learned from individuals that pertain to BVBIU and the surrounding areas (Crimea is about 233 miles southwest of Gorlovka). I have no way of verifying some of this, but to the best of my knowledge believe it to be truthful:

1.    The rate for the Ukrainian currency (Grivna) is sporatic and rapidly losing value driving up prices. Currency withdrawals are greatly limited and only in Grivna (no dollars).

2.    There was a very recent pro-Russian rally in Gorlovka, but no violence to our knowledge.

3.    There was a large pro-Russian rally in Donetsk - fighting broke out, but no firearms. 

4.    The Donetsk "administrative building" was assaulted by Russians, but was retaken by the Ukrainians. 

5.    Ukrainian tanks are heading toward Crimea.

6.    At least 2 Ukrainian bases in Crimea have been surrounded by Russian soldiers.

7.    Ukrainian men between 18 - 47 are being drafted into the Ukrainian army.

8.    The U. S. Department of State has issued a travel warning & warns citizens of the U.S. to defer all non-essential travel to Ukraine.

My natural follow-up to all of this is to ask you to pray about this dangerous situation in Ukraine. And if you have been praying, to please continue praying and even increase your prayers. There are many precious people whose very lives and souls are depending upon them. We don't always know what action God is taking. And we do know that Satan is very powerful. But we do know God is in control and that ultimately the will of His Son Jesus Christ will be accomplished. I will try to keep you updated of any significant developments. 

In His service for Ukraine,
Howell

Eager Students In Arusha, Tanzania...

One of my favorite tools for evangelism has become correspondence courses.  My broken Swahili, coupled with the broken English of others, is enough to exchange regular pleasantries with those who live and work nearby.  Throw in a few small acts of kindness and relationships begin to grow. 

Sometimes this leads to Bible studies, but these are dependent on the availability of a translator.  However, I can readily give them tracts and Bible courses written in Swahili.  I have been very pleased with the eagerness with which these are received.  Just today, a man returned the last lesson of a 12-part series of correspondence courses to be graded.  He proceeded to beg for a lesson on another topic.  He left rejoicing when I gave him a few more tracts and promised to look for some more material to share with him. 

This case is hardly exceptional.  There are several men that seek out a new tract or lesson from me every time we see each other.  I can scarcely keep up with their thirst for more Bible knowledge.  It is energizing and encouraging to see this hunger for God's Word.

Bringing in Reinforcements 
After visiting Njiro Chini last week, we were back at Ilkuirei today.  Three of the second year students at the Andrew Connally School of Preaching have been recruited to help out at Ilkuirei.  They will help with translation and leading in worship service, as well as doing some personal work as time permits. This will be good experience for them, and some very needed help for the congregation.

Also, all of the windows are now in place, as well as ceiling tiles in the newly partitioned off classroom.  The sound quality of services was noticeably better.

On a Personal Note
Our daughter, Abby, celebrated her first birthday in Africa last week (12th birthday overall).  She was sad that her family couldn't be with her, so we wanted to do what we could to make it extra-special.  Saturday we took her for a drive through Tarangire National Park.  You know how sometimes you take your kids to the local national or state park to spend a Saturday?  Well this was just like that... except with elephants and lions.  

Then tonight she had a small gathering of friends at our house.  There are so many things that she has had to give up.  But there are also so many wonderful experiences that she is gaining in return.

Have a fantastic week!
Daniel Gaines

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

Two Weddings And Three Baptisms Between Two Continents...

There is NEVER a dull moment in the mission field and we love that about this work! When God is working in people’s lives is it always exciting to see what develops. This month was no exception as we witnessed three precious souls being added to the kingdom and four faithful brethren being united in holy matrimony. We pray you are encouraged and will rejoice with us in this month’s edition of our Paraguay Mission report!

Developments at Sacramento Avenue
Baptism! Mabel Gonzalez is the sister-in-law to our sister in Christ, Jazmin Penayo. She had been teaching her the Gospel for several months and Mabel had been visiting our worship services. She has come to a better understanding of what it means to be saved, so on Sunday the 2 of February she asked to be immersed for the remission of her sins. We praise God for her decision!

The men have made several great advances toward the maturation of the congregation. They are now publishing their budget on a monthly basis, have almost completely reorganized their ministry groups, and are making decisions regarding future church plants. We pray you might recognize the significance of these recent developments as they represent progress towards our ultimate goal of having a Paraguayan church that is self-governing, self- propagating, and self-sufficient. We’re getting closer!

Developments at Ñemby Congregation
The brethren at Ñemby have been working on installing a bathroom in their meeting facility. It is coming along slowly, but looking good! They had also taken a short break from their weekly study, but have now resumed with a rotation between the different members homes. The attendance has remained rather steady but the brethren would like to see more growth in the congregation. We pray their enthusiasm will carry them to reach out to the many lost souls in the area.

Asunción Bible Academy Update
The students have finished their first complete year of studies!

What a marvelous achievement! They are currently on their month break between the two years of study and will begin classes again on March 10th. Please pray for another successful year and our potential students for the next class.

Ramón Paredes preached his first public sermon this past month in Ñemby. This was quite a milestone for him and for the school! Everyone is commenting on being very pleased with the fruit they see being produced through the Academy!

Bear Valley Bible institute of Denver has named our brother Luis Camacho as the “Stateside Field Coordinator” for ABA. We are very excited to now have brother Camacho so closely connected and working with the school.

Evangelistic Contacts / Bible Studies / Activities
Andrea is staying very busy with all her studies. She continues with Oscar Parodi, Adriana Rodriguez, Jazmin Santander, Dina Aycock, and Sandra Duarte.

Our weekly study with Rolando Duarte continues to go well. He faithfully attends every opportunity to study and is taking lots of notes. We are introducing him to Jesus through a study of Matthew.

The twice-a-week study that I have with my Taekwondo instructor, Christian Jourdain, is going great! His questions are very good and he is demonstrating a good understanding of the Word!

Our brethren, Ramon Paredes and Elvira Dominguez were joined together in holy matrimony on February 8th. Brother Pedro Vera lead the wedding ceremony, which was held at the church building. We pray they have a very long, happy, and successful marriage.

Enrique Albera and Leti Alfonso were also married on February the 15th at the Lake Ypacarai Yacht Club. I had the privilege of guiding them in their wedding vows. It was a beautiful wedding and we pray God blesses them with a strong and lasting marriage.

I was blessed with an opportunity to participate in a Special Mission Trip to El Salvador/Honduras this past month. I traveled with a group of nine people from Arkansas, Missouri, Louisiana, and Oklahoma to translate, teach, and preach in a Medical Clinic and Gospel Meeting campaign. On Sunday, Feb 2nd, I was given the opportunity to preach at three different locations in two different countries with six different congregations being represented among them! Then, I translated for the medical clinics in the mornings followed by preaching in the evenings at a different location each night. All the meetings were well attended, it felt like an old-time revival! We also were able to visit a prison where we were allowed to preach to the inmates, one of which, Luis, was baptized that same day! Another young lady, Rosemary, was also baptized during the campaign. In addition, I was able to encourage and offer some practical advice for the brethren there regarding a new Bible Institute they are planning to start up soon. I greatly appreciate and want to thank all of the supporters that made the trip possible. It was an incredible experience that produced fruit for God’s kingdom!

Other news and upcoming activities
Annual Church Camp/Retreat (April)

Wedding of Gina Vera and Bryan Davis on March 8th

We will be returning to the USA on April 24th for our Annual Furlough and Reporting trip. We are looking forward to seeing you all!

Personal Activities
The Annual Team Retreat was held this past month in Caacupé, about an hour outside Asuncion. We enjoyed some relaxing time together and nice meals, as well as, held a planning meeting for future team plans. We have a great team and some great plans for the future! We pray God will bless our efforts.

Andrea and I finally took a little time for ourselves and went on a two day, “get out of town” vacation to a hotel resort overlooking Lake Ypacarai. We had the whole place to ourselves and it was a much needed, restful time.

Andrea has been very active this past month in “Las Amigas” for several of their upcoming events. The best part is, many great, new contacts have been made through these activities.

Pam Bertoni is one of the first American friends Andrea made in Paraguay through Las Amigas. She has been battling ovarian cancer the last two years and has been the recipient of many new, experimental treatments. We ask that you please add her to your pray list.

Personal study
I am currently reading / have read:

The 360° Leader by John Maxwell

The Church of Christ: A Biblical Ecclesiology for Today by Everett Ferguson

I have been studying and preparing for the next quarter ́s classes of ABA: “Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther”

I have been studying (debating) with a Jehovah’s Witness regarding their “bible” and the “Kingdom of God.”

Preaching/teaching opportunities
I preached for the Ñemby congregation on the subject of “Christ Fulfilling the Law.”

I preached at Avenida Sacramento about “Reflecting Christ” in everything that we are and do.

The subjects for the Honduras/El Salvador campaign were: “Every Christian’s Responsibility,” “The Characteristics of a Mature Christian,” “YOU are Acts Chapter 29,” “The Sum of Thy Word is Truth,” and “The Kingdom of God”

Please pray for Andrea’s friend, Pam, who has ovarian cancer week Bible class in La Palma, El Salvador via Skype.

Troy and Andrea Spradlin

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

Classes Begin At SIBS Doboro, Ghana.

A new preacher training school, the Southern Institute of Biblical Studies, has started at Doboro-Nsawam, about fourteen Kilometers away from Accra, the capital of Ghana.

This is a two-year, full time residential program affiliated with the Bear Valley Bible Institute of Denver, Colorado and is awarded by a Certificate in Biblical Studies. The church at Nsawam, in the Eastern Region is involved in the SIBS.

Included in the primary objectives of the school is to prepare more dedicated men to preach the gospel and to serve in the Lord’s church as evangelists.

Following an induction service on the 15th of February, the maiden admitted students for the 2014-2016 academic year, started classes on the 17th of February, 2014. Twelve mature men from a cross section of the country, and  already serving in different roles in the church, have been admitted into this new program.  This includes some students from Dambai in the Volta-North, Poyamire-Bawku in the Upper East region, and others from the Eastern and Greater-Accra regions respectively.

A good number of the brethren here believe the new school will go a long way to help the spread of the gospel in this region.

We are not only grateful to God for this new program, but also to our financial donors, and to brother Steven Ashcraft, the coordinator, for making this dream become a reality.

Please continue to keep this school and her primary focus of evangelization in your prayers.

God bless
Seth Larbi

Joy In The Midst Of Political Turmoil In Ukraine...

Hello dear brothers, families and churches.

If you were to ask me what could surprise and sadden me a few months ago, I wouldn’t even think about the events in our country. But let’s start from the very beginning. On February 15, the Lord has given our family a daughter whom we named Dasha. Vera safely delivered the baby, but when they were signing out of the hospital, the doctors found that my daughter has heart problems. Now we have to check her health at the hospital regularly and pray for her recovery. Doctors say that this condition may get better in time; otherwise they will have to do the surgery. Please pray with us for her health. 

Now let’s talk about the politics. There were many changes in our country in February. It seemed that revolution won, and the new government gained authority, the ex-president fled to Russia, and he is there even now. We hoped that it was the most difficult part, and now it’s over, and the country will get ready for the new reform and integration into Europe. But Russia wanted to say the last word, and they did. A week ago Russian troops occupied the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and Ukrainian bases there, as if helping Russians who live in that territory. The situation is very tense. Our government together with European and Russian governments can’t find a peaceful solution. Ukraine is in economical, political and moral unrest. We ask you to pray for our future and us. 

The school is doing well. Our teachers and students are very patient and are not panicking because of the events which happen around us. We started thinking more about the spiritual, and it might be God’s providence that we study the book of Daniel together with the first year students. “…And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding…” (Daniel 2:21). We often forget to think about the numerous nature of God’s blessings such as: peace, calm, and joy, and we understand that only when we lose them. 

Our student, Alexey Mitskutis, together with his wife, Alina, had a successful visit to the church of Christ in Ukhta (Northern Russia). We hope that Alexey will move to Russia with his family after his graduation to minister as a preacher there. The congregation received them with much warmth. They have been in need of a preacher for a long time. 

Last month a man from Dnipropetrovsk got into our program. His name is Ivan. He has been seeking an opportunity to study God’s word for a long time. Now we have 12 people studying at the institute at the moment.

In February, I visited several churches in the Donetsk area. I was able to attend the church in Amvrosievka, where they don’t have a preacher currently. Previously, US brethren supported this congregation, but for unknown reasons they stopped supporting the preacher. We try to visit this congregation with our students, and we want one of our graduates to continue working there permanently preaching the word of God. They have their own big building. There are about 12-15 people. If anyone wants to be working with this congregation or help it to grow, please write to me via email. 

The Central Church of Christ in Gorlovka has yet another addition. A young man, Anatoliy Kushnirov, was baptized. After Bible classes with Bogdan and Andrew, he decided to obey the gospel. He has some mental health issues, but he is quite adequate, and we hope that his decision was not based on an emotional high. We are constantly praying for him. 

Thank you for your help and support of our work. All institute staff and students send you their greetings. We know that you pray for us. And we rely on our almighty God completely.

Your brother and co-worker on His field,
Dennis Sopelnik

To see Dennis’ report with pictures of their new baby, please click here.

Working In The Upper East Region And Burkina Faso..

During my recent trip to the Upper East Region I was able to meet with the TIBS graduates that work in Bawku and the surrounding areas. It is always encouraging to see those who were formerly students now in the role of teacher within their communities. There is a great deal of work being done that is resulting in both spiritual and physical growth for the church.

2013 graduate Molsak Joseph is working with the Bawku church and has recently began a campus ministry at the local senior high school. The school’s headmaster had stopped allowing students to leave the campus (most senior high schools here are boarding schools) on Sundays because many students who said they were going to a church were abusing the privilege. Unfortunately this meant that a number of our members could no longer attend, so Molsak started going to them. They now meet on Sunday afternoon for worship, Tuesday evening for Bible study and Friday evening for prayers. The small number of students who used to attend the Bawku church has now grown to 25 to 30 for every meeting. Joseph also continues his work with the Bawku church which has just completed construction of their own building. We joined with them to finish the last portion of the building, putting in a cement floor.

Fellow 2103 graduate Nichema Jacob continues his work with the Kuka church of Christ, the Garu church of Christ, the Pialogo church of Christ and with Kingdom of Hope Orphan’s School. Over the past two years the Kuka church has grown from 30 members to over 80 members with a weekly attendance of over 130. Much of this growth can be attributed to Kingdom of Hope’s outreach program which allows any child to attend the school regardless of age, sex, religion, or ability to pay the nominal school fees of 2 Cedis per month (about 75 cents at the current exchange rate). Most of the converts over the past year are parents or family members of the school’s students. Look for more information about Kingdom of Hope in next month’s report. The Garu church, which was restored during a campaign last year now has an average weekly attendance of 40, and the Piargo church reported 6 baptisms last year. Nichema keeps himself and his congregation busy spreading the good news!

2011 TIBS graduate Stephen Abugbilla is also keeping busy, taking on the responsibility for restoring the church in Kaadi. Stephen preaches each week for the Atuba church of Christ which reported 7 baptisms last year, growing the congregation to 86 members. Last fall Stephen reached out to former members in the neighboring village of Kaadi about beginning services there, something that had not happened since 2009 when their former evangelist left. In February we helped Stephen put a roof on the new mud brick meeting building that he and the congregation had constructed, and where 36 adults and 11 children are now worshiping.

One area of difficulty stands out among the many good things happening in the Upper East Region. The church at Kulungungu continues to suffer difficulties with the majority Muslim population of the village. The church, which began meeting in 2013, had originally met in a local community building in Kulungungu. This past fall they were informed that they were no longer welcome to meet there, and no other building owner was willing to provide them a space. Kulungungu’s preacher, 2011 graduate Avoca John Mbilla, eventually found a place for the church to meet to the north of the village, which meant the church technically moved from Ghana to Burkina Faso! Unfortunately in January of this year the same group of people from Kulungungu found the new meeting place and began harassing the church when they met. Due to the harassment four of the fourteen members stopped attending, worship services and the church decided they needed to once again move. They have been meeting at their current location, which is back in Ghana but outside of the village, since the end of January. I will be making a trip to the area in April or May to do a follow up campaign designed to encourage the Kulungungu church and assure them that they are not suffering these difficulties alone. In addition to preaching at Kulungungu Avoca continues to serve as the preacher for his home village of Poyamire which consists of 30 members and has an average weekly attendance of over 50.

If the work in the Upper East was not exciting enough there is great news coming out of Burkina Faso as well. In the capital city of Ouagadougou, a city of 1.5 million people, there are only two churches of Christ with a total of 42 members. During a campaign that was held last year contact was made with a number of individuals who wanted a more in depth opportunity to study what the Bible taught about salvation and the church. Unfortunately attempts to find a location to meet had met with resistance as the schools that were near where the potential students lived refused to allow us to use their facilities. Not to be deterred we were able to complete the necessary arrangements to transport and feed the six men who are interested in studying the Bible to the Eglise De Christ De Patte Doie building every Saturday for the next 3 months. The students will take 6 hours of classes each Saturday which will be taught by local church leaders. After 3 months we will evaluate the program and what additional interest the local church is able to generate and add additional evening classes as appropriate. It is our hope that this will be the first step in establishing a full time school in Burkina Faso in the near future.

There is a lot of good news being spread in Northern Ghana and Burkina Faso, and I know that I could not do anything without your prayers and financial support. Last month I mentioned some of the congregations that support this work, so this month I want to mention a few of the individuals who make this work possible. I know that I will undoubtedly miss some, so please forgive any oversight on my part. I want to begin with the entire congregation at Greenbrier who has shown me more love than I can possibly explain. There are so many who anonymously give me money for the work every time I come that it is overwhelming. Others provide Bibles for the students, water purification bottles, etc. that make the work here easier. Thanks to all of you for the confidence you have placed in me. I love you all. A special thank you to Sue Shumate who has always been my biggest supporter, both emotionally and financially. Also a special thanks to those who have supported me since I began this adventure with monthly support and one time gifts to take care of specific needs: Glen and Colleen Elliott, Connie Barden, Chris and Shirley Brill, Linda Ray, Bobby and Jackie Sims, Mildred Pierce, Del and Love Hines, Aubrey and Donna Allensworth, Ron and JoAnn Boatwright, Edie Singleton, Jim and Martha Bell, Judy Moody, Mary Mix, Jackie and Lynda Horton, Rod and Cindy Wilson,Tom and Stephanie Barkley, Gene and Sandra Blair, Linda and Sammy Sinor, Travis White, Holly Locke, Rachel Wilkie, Brian and Deann Wilkie, Jack Wilkie, Joe Wilkie, Anna Dodgen, Mike and Anna Wolfe, Susan Mullen, Gary and Elaine Heath, Janet Banks, David and Beverly Woody, Bailey and Marilyn Watson, Verple Baker, Phillip and Dana Short, and William and Francine Carlin. And last, but certainly not least, a very special thank you to my mother Virginia Hielen who has not only supported the work I do, but remains the example I follow. This work belongs to all of you.

I have posted a number of pictures to go along with this report on the Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/TamaleChristians. For those without Facebook, or if you want to see even more pictures, you can also visit the School’s new blog page at http://tamalechristians.wordpress.com/.

Next month I will report on the work being done at the Kingdom of Hope Orphan’s School. Until then, “The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make His face shine upon you, And be gracious to you; The Lord lift up His countenance upon you, And give you peace.” (Numbers 6:24-26).

Tony ‘Wintima’ Johnson

Students Prepare To See 26 Villages In Cameroon...

Dearest in Christ,

Greetings from Cameroon. We do hope you are all doing great in all that you are supposed to do for the Lord and humanity.

We give thanks to God for another successful end of a quarter in CBIW for the past two weeks we were involved in the intensive short courses in the book of “2 Corinthians” and “Advance Hermeneutics.” These short courses were taught by two of our former students who are now full time evangelists in congregations, both in the French and English part of Cameroon.

This morning the Wotutu congregation, we prayed for all the students as they embark on their journeys to 26 different villages and towns all over Cameroon, some to French speaking locations. We are looking, by His grace, for the establishment of a new congregation in Isokolo village. We have been there many times for a survey. Keep the work in your prayers.

Students will travel by boat and some will travel long distances on muddy road to get to where they will serve. Please keep them in your prayers.

Brother Mokwe Eugene taught the word to someone who is just returning from the farm, so many people are eager to hear the truth. Keep us in your prayers as we reach out to many, so that the seeds we sow in their hearts will bear good fruit soon.

Our country celebrated a national holiday concerning our re-unification between the French speaking Cameroonians and the English speaking ones. Our history holds that we were one, but later on we were divided because of colonialism. If our history holds that, then we Cameroonians stand by it. It is the same with the gospel that we preach. We are supposed to be one indivisible in Christ. Let us keep away from our geographical locations and ethnicity or our skin color. We are one in Christ. Let us pray for love, cherish, encouragement, provoke one another in love and good works as we labor daily in the vineyard. Jesus prayed for our oneness, ask yourself a question: Do you sincerely know that we are one? 1Co. 1:10-12.

Plans
Our students are out to many congregations, mostly to those congregations that, by His grace, we have established and we are nurturing weekly. Keep them in your prayers.

Many demands by some congregations for us to come and help reach out.

I still feel bad about the roof of the Koba congregation. Rains have started, what will happen now with the Christians in my village congregation? Please pray and see if you can be of help to cover the walls from windy rain which starts the rainy season in Cameroon.

Appreciations
It is a thing of joy to us always, as we join together weekly to say thank you. We thank God on your behalf for all the great works you are doing in God’s kingdom. God bless you and only He will reward you in due season.

Do your best to share with others this report. I will report back weekly, only when the students will return from their vacation after campaign. God bless you.

Elangwe and family

By His grace director CBIW

Southern Institute Of Biblical Studies Begins...

A new school recently began classes in the Nsawam / Doboro area of Ghana, West Africa. These new students are studying to prepare themselves for ministry. This week’s report features several pictures from the grand opening celebration of the Southern Institute of Biblical Studies. We will continue to learn more about the development of this first class of students and share news with you about their growth.

The photos highlight the opening that took place on February 15th. These photos show the building, the new students, some of the instructors, the office, and the classroom. There are also pictures of the office furniture, classroom desks and chairs, pulpit, whiteboard, ceiling fans, and other improvements. With your help, we were able to get this new program started. 

Since we are at the first of the month, there are more reports to read through, so we will keep this section brief. We encourage you to read through each report because the news is exciting. A few prayer requests are mentioned significant to the work in several places. Please pray for these areas and the challenges facing the staff and students in these locations.

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/

Howell Ferguson’s latest report can be read here.

Luis Camacho’s latest report can be read here.

Donnie Bates’ latest report can be read here.

Extension Reports 

Classes Coming To An End, Campaigns Begin: One week of short-courses at CBIW and students are headed for campaign work. Pray the souls in these villages are receptive.

Uganda School of Evangelism Nears Graduation: News from students and graduates from the Uganda School of Evangelism shows the benefit of the work in Uganda.

Chimala, East Africa Bound: After recovering from hip replacement surgery, Garry Hill will soon be headed back to Chimala with the confidence of continuing this great work. 

Praying For Successful Outreach: The staff and student body of the Southwest School of Evangelism continues to proclaim the gospel and praying for God to give the increase.

Chimala Mission: Chad Wagner Report: The activity on the mission, from the hospital to local evangelism, is growing in southern Tanzania.

7 Congregations And 400 Souls: What began as small has blossomed under the guiding hand of God. The recent church plant in Arusha makes the 7th congregation in this city.

Short-Term Workers In Arusha: A team from Indiana has been in Arusha, Tanzania this past week working with the new church plant. They have worked hard and God has blessed.

New Church Plant In Arusha Is Growing: News from the church is Arusha shares growth. The latest church plant is already hosting 19 attendees.

Final Thoughts
“Thank you” never seems adequate to express how much we appreciate your help in the work of Extension Training. We are blessed to work with the greatest people on earth and we thank you for making that possible. Our prayer is that God will richly bless you for your generosity and that you are encouraged by the work being done around the world.

God bless

Bob

Recent Trip To Paraguay Report...

On Friday February 21st I was able to meet with brother Troy Spradlin who is the director of the school in Paraguay via Skype. We have plans to meet every Friday for the time being until I feel I have a full grasp of the daily activities that take place at the school.

In terms of the daily administration of the school, the student manual is being updated in an effort to prevent abuse from students during their tenure as preaching students. During my visit to teach I did witness firsthand Troy dealing with a student neglecting his room responsibilities. 

In terms of the economic well being of the student body, students that are on partial status will receive a scholarship increase due to a local increase in the cost of living. During the time that I was there, gas prices translated to over $6.00 per gallon and apparently the price of public transportation has increased. 

We also had the opportunity to talk about the recruitment of future students. As it stands now, brother Troy communicated that there is not a good grip on perspective students. It has been my observation that Paraguay is a spiritual gold mine to reach souls for the Kingdom. I hope that in the days to come I will be able to connect a bit more with the administrators of the school, student body, and even the church over the internet. Troy and I talked about using the technology that is currently available such as Skype and other similar services that are of better quality that do not equate to the price of airfare. At the moment this is all the information that I have that is relevant that I would like to report in reference to the school. This week, Lord willing, I will meet with Troy via Skype and gather more information to report. 

Luis and Wendi Camacho
609 Tate St
Sulphur Springs, Tx 75482
903-348-4242

goinglivestandby@yahoo.com

New Church Plant In Arusha Is Growing...

We were excited to be able to attend worship at the new Njiro Chini congregation today. Currently they are meeting in the home of Elly Martin until more permanent arrangements can be made. This is where the concentrated evangelistic focus has been for the month of February. Christopher Mwakabanje gives the following synopsis of the month's efforts:

“February evangelism went very well. A total of 53 Bible Studies were set up, 9 are faithfully attending our regular worship services. Among the 53 Bible studies, 39 are very active. It requires more human resources on follow up. We had one baptism so far. The attendance on Sundays has grown up to 19 people on the 3rd Sunday.”

Meanwhile our daughter, Abby, decided to try teaching the children's Bible class by herself for the first time. She hopes to eventually get to where she can do a cradle roll class on a regular basis. We're very proud of her heart and desire to serve.

After a great worship service, Elly and his sweet wife, Neema, provided lunch for everyone. That's one benefit of visiting a very small congregation! We enjoyed ugali, rice, beans, a banana and meat stew, and various other goodies. It's always good to have a chance to visit with the Martin family.

Monday we will bid farewell to the group that has been visiting from the Town Acres church of Christ in Indiana. We’ve worked them hard, and have enjoyed getting to know them. We pray they have a safe journey home to their families.

I hope you enjoy your time with God and His people this week!

Daniel Gaines

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

Short-Term Workers In Arusha...

Dear Supporters, Family and Friends,

We hope this update finds you well and thankful for your blessings! We are all doing fine. All around is green due to rains every day and sometimes twice a day. Four short-term workers have arrived: Dennis Dickey and his daughter, Mariah, Brian Howard and Nathan Bailey. All are from Muncie, Indiana and are excited about being here and working in the area of the new church plant, Njiro Chini. This past week, Dennis and Brian were tag-team teaching the Gospel of John to the second year students. Mariah and Nathan have also helped Jimmy, Lindsey, and Abigail organize the ACSOP library.

Please accept our apologies for the absence of pictures in this update. There are plenty we would like to include but our time is limited. Today at Kisongo, there were several visitors (6 to 8) attending worship. Many were new workers at the A-Z Mosquito Net factory. Two were neighbors that Heather and Candace invited. These two girls, Tina and Keshia, are boarding in a house behind us with 7 other girls, all who are students at Braeburn secondary school. Jimmy continued teaching the men and women I, II and III John. He also preached this morning on “How Does Scripture Describe a Good Man?” 

Awhile back, we had the pleasure of meeting the Director of “Pippi House,” a Foundation for Girls. They are taking care of girls between the ages of 5 months – 24 years. He wrote recently asking if I had any English books (grammar books and any books written in English) to donate so they could have more material in which to practice reading. We have about 50 pounds of books to give them, including many Apologetics Press books and religious magazines and lesson books. What a great opportunity to share the Gospel.

Our sincere thanks to all who have given to our travel fund! $5300 has been received, leaving a balance of $9200. We are hoping to leave in May. If you or your congregation could help us reach our goal, we would be very grateful. 

Last year, Jimmy accepted an invitation to speak on the Faulkner Lectureship (March 2-6) in Montgomery, AL. Thank you for praying for his safe travels, plus that of the Stafford Family who have begun their reporting tour in the states.

“If we work upon marble, it will perish; if we work on brass, time will efface it. If we rear temples, they will crumble to dust. But if we work on men’s immortal minds, if we impress on them high principles…and love for their fellow-men, we engrave on those tablets something which no time can efface, and which will brighten and brighten to all eternity.” ---Daniel Webster

With Love from Africa,
The Jimmy Gee family

7 Congregations And 400 Souls...

Greetings Fellow Servants,

Stephanie and I want to thank you all for making our life of service in Tanzania possible. We stand amazed at what God can do when we join hands and hearts to further along the saving message of God to the lost and dying of East Africa. Your friendship in the Gospel is yielding much fruit through the grace of God. This can be seen in the following comment from our good brother Christopher Mwakabanje:

“February evangelism went very well. A total of 53 Bible Studies were set up, 9 are faithfully attending our regular worship services. Among the 53 Bible studies, 39 are very active. It requires more human resources on follow up. We had one baptism so far. The attendance on Sundays has grown up to 19 people on the 3rd Sunday.”

Christopher's comments are in reference to the sixth church plant in the Arusha area. In 1998, when we first began this amazing mission effort, there was one congregation of less than 30 souls in Arusha. Today, there are 7 congregations in Arusha with more than 400 souls worshiping our God each week. 

We have our first appointment this coming Wednesday night. We have but a few openings, so, if anyone would like to hear of the good being done by God, through the Tanzania mission team in East Africa, please give me a call: 601-310-6170 or email me: tz2000team@gmail.com for a possible appointment. Here is the updated list of locations we will be at over the coming weeks:

March 5th - Hubbertville coC, AL
March 9th - Sherman coC, TX
March 23rd - Pearl Harbor coC, Hawaii
March 30th - Belle Chase coC, LA (pending confirmation)
March 30th - Chalmette coC, LA

April 6th - Raydon/Durham coC, OK (pending confirmation)
April 9th - Hooker coC, OK (pending confirmation)
April 13th - Edgefield coC, TX (a.m.)
April 13th - Henderson coC, TX (p.m.)
April 27th - Madison coC, MS (a.m.)
April 27th - North Brandon, MS (p.m.)

We close with an amazing opportunity. We went out on faith and secured some much needed video equipment we needed for our translation team/work. Our fellow laborers at World Video Bible School made available to us over $20,000 worth of equipment for $10,000. We have been blessed with $3,500 in donations already. The future of the Lord’s work will be enhanced greatly by our ability to tape Bible material in both English and Ki-Swahili to be distributed and used throughout all East Africa and into the Congo. Can you help us help them help themselves? Thank you!

We pray your week of service in Him toward others is fruitful and a true joy to your life. 

In Him, 
Cy, Stephanie & Granny

Chimala Mission: Chad Wagner Report...

Ephesians 3:20-21 (ASV) 

"Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus unto all generations for ever and ever. Amen." 

Overview of our Work
Our whole family is involved in this work here in Chimala. We are truly blessed to be able to be here. Below is an overview of how our family is involved with the work at Chimala.  

Chad
1.  Preaching the Word of God. Each Sunday, Chad is preaching in various congregations in the Chimala area. He works closely with area congregations to develop leadership, help evangelize communities, and encourage the brethren. During the week, he is normally speaking in one of our daily chapels on the mission. Preaching the Gospel is central to what he is doing in Chimala.

2.  Teaching the Word of God. Chad teaches at our two-year school of preaching training men from Tanzania, Congo, Malawi, etc. He is working hard to train the next generation of preachers and church leaders.

3.  Overseeing all aspects of the Chimala Mission. The Chimala Mission has 6 departments with over 200 employees. It is a large operation! Chad is involved in all of the areas to see that they are on track to meet goals.

Rena 
1.  Volunteers with our evangelistic mobile medical clinics. There are several clinics set up in the Chimala area where people can get vaccines, check-ups, pregnancy checks, medicine, etc. This is beneficial because so many people cannot easily get to the hospital for treatment.  

2.  Coordinates the domestic side of the Chimala Mission. We have many different visitors at the Chimala Mission and that requires coordination regarding housing, etc. With so many groups coming to the mission, she keeps busy welcoming visitors to Chimala.  

3.  Teaches nursing classes at the hospital. She and Cheryl Bode have been giving nursing education classes to the nurses at the Chimala Mission Hospital. This week's class: IV drip rates. 

4.  Volunteers as needed at the Hospital. Doing various tasks as needed, she fills a gap that is needed at the hospital.  

5.  Home-schools our children. With all that she has to do around the mission, she still home-schools 4 of our children from Kindergarten through 12th grade!

Our children work at the preacher school library, volunteer with our mobile medical clinics, volunteering at the hospital, etc.  

We are very thankful for all the prayers and financial support 

We Need your Help!
We have committed ourselves to living and working here at Chimala. We are glad to be here but we need your financial assistance to be able to stay here. Costs have increased but our support has not. We are in need of an additional $2,500 a month in support. We rely on you, our brothers and sisters in Christ, to come to our aid and support our work. During our recent furlough, we were blessed with some wonderful one-time funds. We also get a $100/month pledge from one congregation as well as a $500/month work fund pledge for Rena's nursing work. We are very grateful for that support but we still stand in need of personal support.

50/50
We are calling on 50 new congregations and/or individuals who can support us at $50/month. $50/month is not a great amount but when combined with over faithful support, it will allow us to be able to live and work here at Chimala.

We are calling on our brothers and sisters in Christ to help us in our time of need.

If you can help us in our support, please let us know. I will be happy to share our details with you if you have any questions.

Support a Student
There are several students at the secondary school and primary school who are orphans and/or are under-privileged. Our school is one of the best in the area. You can help provide a good education for these kids by helping pay for school fees. You can support a secondary school student for $1,000 for the year and a primary school student for $200 for the year. If you can help, please let us know.

Help get our hospital out of the toilet!
The Chimala Mission Hospital is a rural hospital which struggles at keeping prices low for the surrounding people while at the same time making enough to cover our expenses. It is not always easy. We are starting a fundraising campaign to fix the bathroom facilities at the hospital. You can check out pictures and more information at http://cherylinchimala.blogspot.com/2014/02/help-our-bathrooms-get-out-of-toilet.html.  

Micah accidentally injured
While doing some work at the shop, Micah and Dakotah Price were running through the rain. During the run, Micah's hand sustained an injury for which she needed stitches.

Thank you!

Due to your generosity, we were able to provide a motorcycle for an evangelist who travels to various congregations to preach.

Chad Wagner

Praying For Successful Outreach...

Beloved in Christ Jesus,

Greetings! We (myself, two of my co-WBS follow-up workers: brother James Waleola and brother Dele Shotola, and three of SWSE students) visited and studied with 39 WBS students of brother Bill Dority /SC-006 over the weekend of February 22, 2014 at God is Able College, Monatan, Ibadan.

On Sunday at the Onikokoro congregation-Ibadan, in continuation of our three months Indoor Lectureship, brother Destiny Elijah, one of the SWSE year 1 students, taught on “Items of True Worship,” while I admonished the church from Deuteronomy 6:1-7.

At the campus church in Butubutu, our campus minister and one of SWSE year 2 students, named brother Abraham Idu Yeje, taught on the “Second Coming of Christ” while brother Emmanuel Shotola, a year one student admonished the church from Matthew 22:1-14.

Brethren, I will be working with brother Doug Wheeler from today through March 1, 2014, and I plan to distribute freely between 1,500 to 2,000 copies of vol. 78 of VOT International within our country, Nigeria, during this preaching trip with brother Doug.

I, therefore, solicit your prayerful support for successful outreach. Thanks for your partnership! May the Lord of blessing continue to bless all our joint efforts in Christ name, Amen.

Sincerely in Christ,

Makinde Ebenezer Olufemi (Director of studies)
Southwest School of Evangelism (SWSE), Ibadan & Lagos campus, Nigeria

Chimala, East Africa Bound...

We are looking forward to traveling the 20 plus hours back to the Chimala Bible Institute in two weeks. We have been sidelined by a hip replacement surgery and then even a heart condition. But we have been so blessed by the prayers and support of the greatest brethren in the world. We have kept up weekly with the teachers and students and have been reminded by two great truths. 

First, our God is so gracious and loving along with the support and love of the members of Christ body. The acts of kindness, interest and concern for myself and the students at CBI have been heartwarming. Second, our Tanzanian teachers and preachers are dedicated and competent. The school is running fine. Boaz, our senior teacher and elder in the Lord’s church, has been my chief recorder. He has reminded me of the brethren’s fight to remain sound and committed, even in some unusual situations. The teachers at CBI all have the BVBID master’s degree and are amazingly hard workers and faithful evangelist. 

The student body is more varied than it has ever been. Boaz reports, “as for now we have 19 students from Swahili and English. We have more requests from the refuge camp, so far we already have one from Congo and we hope to get another five from the camp. And another four from Dar, one from Iringa and the other from Ntapisi.”  

As not only a faithful evangelist, but also an elder of the mission congregation, Boaz reports CBI has become a training ground for the growth and development of the local congregation. He says, “we have also four students from the Chimala Mission congregation, Levi who is the son of Joster Mwilongo is very diligent in working with the church. We also have a daughter of the late chaplain of the hospital (Elia Mdindile) who served for 40 years at the hospital; we are training her to teach the Primary school kids.  Finally, we have the son of one of our deacons whom we are also training to be a preacher at the Chimala Mission congregation.”

Yes, we are eager to return and help these great brethren do the work of “training preachers.” We will be returning with Brent Smith who has taught for many years at the Chimala mission. Brent, a faithful gospel preacher and graduate of FHC, is going to teach the Gospel of John and Christian Ethics. The first two weeks we will be teaching “Biblical World” and “Christian Evidences.” Then we will settle in to teaching the long quarter. Please pray for Brent, his daughter and myself as we return to CBI. We will be returning with Bibles for our students, books and study guides that have so generously been provided by the Rossville Church of Christ. Returning to help train the next generation of preachers and teachers in Tanzania, Malawi and the Congo.

Garry L. Hill
Coordinator/Instructor: Bear Valley Bible Institute
Director: Chimala Bible Institute