The Joy Of Mentoring At The Andrew Connally School Of Preaching...

Dear friends and brethren,

It is such a joy to be partners with you in our effort to broaden the kingdom. Anita and I are so very grateful for your constant support and prayers. We have just a few days left until our furlough comes to an end. We have a couple of final appointments left and are spending as much time as we can with our children and families before the long journey back to Tanzania. While we are grateful for the time with family and brethren we are anxious to return home to resume our work.

One of the greatest joys of the work at ACSOP is mentoring the four men that make up our faculty. That’s them in the picture above. These men have proven to be exceptional. They take initiative, work tirelessly, and have completely invested themselves in the work of the kingdom. As a mentor, I have stressed the mantra that “good teachers are good learners”. These men have accepted this thought and soak up knowledge as if their lives depended on it. Honestly, I could spend several pages praising each one of them for their myriad abilities but I’ll spare you from my pride in them.

One of the tasks that we have asked each of them to do is write a report, or relay a story, concerning the work at ACSOP. It is my hope to send these to you on a regular basis. By so doing you will hear about the work from their perspective and hopefully you will get to know them a little. As you read their reports, if you have questions come to mind, send them to me. I’ll pass them along and they will post the answers in their next report.

This weeks report comes from Godfrey Mngoma. Godfrey has been through ACSOP and college. He was teaching in the coastal town of Tanga when we asked him to come work with us at ACSOP. He is married and has triplet daughters. Godfrey is the preacher for the Arusha church of Christ and serves as the Dean of Students at ACSOP.

Sean and Anita Hochdorf

Upcoming Activities In Arusha Will Leave You Encouraged With The Work...

Greetings Fellow Servants, 

We thank you for your prayers and support of God’s mission work here in Tanzania. God is working powerfully through His faithful men and women in His Church in East Africa. 

Let me illustrate... On November 29th the Andrew Connally School of Preaching will graduate eight more faithful evangelist. These men represent three countries here in East Africa, Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda. These men spent the last two years studying God’s Word from cover to cover. They also learned to apply their knowledge, working with local congregations and actively engaging in personal evangelism. Including this class, we have sent 137 men into this world to proclaim the message of the Gospel. I cannot think of a better stewardship process than 2 Timothy 2:2, “The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” We ask that you remember each of these men of God and their families as they serve God in His Kingdom’s work. 

During the week of December 15th through the 21st, the Andrew Connally School of Preaching will host the yearly Future Preacher’s Training Camp. Each year about this time we bring in 35-45 young men, ages 13-23, to learn how to lead in worship, develop and preach Biblical lessons, and what it means to “Lead!” Many of these young men have proven themselves to be really good Bible class teachers, preachers, and, yes, amazing evangelists. They helped with our Christian camp, teaching many of their friends and peers the Truth of God’s Word. We thank our brother Roger Shepherd for introducing this idea to the Lord’s work here in Tanzania many years ago. This has proven to be a power tool in the “disciplining process.” 

During the week of January 5th through 10th, the Andrew Connally School of Preaching will host the yearly Tanzania Christian Camp. Young boys and girls, ages 13 to 23, from the Lord’s church are invited to come and learn more about God’s Word, as they fellowship and meet new friends. They are encouraged to bring a friend who might not be a Christian that they might learn of the saving message of the Gospel. We thank Ben Thompson (who will not make it this year because he and his wife just had a baby), John Rice and Burt Fuller for bringing this idea to Tanzania. They are also going to conduct a second camp this year in Dar es Salaam. Each year several obey the Gospel during this camp, all to His glory!

I have highlighted the above to say this - our good brothers and sisters in Christ here in Tanzania are maturing and doing the work with joyful hearts. The scriptural growth we are witnessing is truly amazing and can only be attributed to God, for “what God controls, grows.”

On behalf of the entire Tanzania mission team, we say thank you from the very depth of our souls. We know you have sacrificed much, making this work what it is. May our God bring joy and peace into your lives in a very special way. We thank you, we love you and we will continue praying for you. 

In Him,
Cy, Stephanie, Granny, Mama Happy, Bryson and Benson. 

(Mama Happy, or better known to some of you as Paulina, gave birth to a healthy boy, Bryson, last week. Her good friend and nurse, Stephanie, is taking care of them in our home for a few days before they return home).

P.S. Early this week we received a surprise from the government owned and operated power company. Instead of 240 volts, we received 300 volts of power. So, we are in the process of repairing and replacing; 23 light bulbs, a micro-wave, washer, printer, two power supplies for our lap-tops, etc. We have covered the cost of our personal items, but, if you would like to help with the Kensington House (missionary house), we (the mission team) would be very grateful. As of this writing we have spent $910.32, still waiting to see if our coffee pot and printer can be repaired. Thank you in advance for your concern and generosity. 

The Lord Adds To The Church In Togo...

Kpodzi Church of Christ has a meeting place.
David has every reason to smile. A few weeks ago, David was concerned with the worship place of the Tsame Church of Christ. An appeal was launched and someone was touched to respond. The Tsame Church was blessed with funds to purchase the land and erect a structure for meeting. One interesting thing that happened was that the very time payment for the land was to be made, the owner decided to triple the price of the land because it was in a prime area on the outskirts of Kpalime. However, God had prepared another place for the church just across the street on a hill overlooking the city of Kpalime. Brethren purchased the land and completed the structure within a week and had the place ready for worship the following Sunday. 

Students and instructors were on site to assist with the construction. The brethren are grateful and asked God’s blessing on the donor. Due to change in location, there is the need for the change in the name of the Tsame Church of Christ, it is now Kpodzi Church of Christ. 

A family is added to the Nyivme church of Christ. 
Mrs. Abalo recently attended a seminar at CBS and informed her husband and the children of the teachings she had received. The family visited the church a couple of times and listened to the radio program each Sunday while reading the tracts they received from the church. The entire family of four decided recently to obey the gospel. 

The family currently worships with the Nyiveme Church of Christ. The family used to worship with the Zion Hill Church, a charismatic church in Kpalime. 

Four Baptized During EYOH Campaign
On the 25th - 27th of September, the EYOH Church of Christ organized a three day campaign for Christ. The three day campaign produced four additions to the Eyoh Church of Christ. The activities include the following: Open air preaching, house to house Bible study, tract distribution, Jesus film show, and Passion of the Christ. In all, there were 12 preachers, 18 students, ten members of the Nyiveme congregation, 4 members from the Hanyigba congregation and 14 members of the Eyoh congregation were present to assist in this worthy cause.

Todego Achille Teaches Short Course at CBS 
Todego teaches at the Benin Center for Biblical Studies. We recently invited him to teach the book of Hebrews at CBS. We will continue to use such teachers in our future programs. 

Tract Distribution by CBS Students 
We spent a couple of hours on a Friday distributing tracts in the city of Kpalime. We were in the shops, market place, homes, offices, and also set up a distribution center along a major street. 

The tracts were donated through George Funk of Gospel Chariot Mission in South Africa. The church of Christ is reaching many through its outreach programs which include: tracts distribution, radio program, Bible correspondence courses, and house to house personal work. 

Chariot driver Atsou helps with distribution of tracts 
Ever since his conversion in August, Atsou has not rested from telling people about the Church of Christ; he is on fire for the Lord. On my recent trip to Kpalime, he was part of my team during the tract distribution. Atsou is so excited about the church and even confided in me that there is nothing that will send him back into denominationalism. The ‘pastor’ of his former church is still trying to lure him back because he claimed they miss his skillful drumming during worship service. However, Atsou has vowed never to look back. They have tried to convince him to propose a salary. Atsou now understands that the use of instrument is not commanded in the New Testament Church worship. 

H. Willie Gley
wgleycbs@gmail.com
P.O. Box AN 19611
Accra North, Ghana

A New Birth (Physically And Spiritually) While A Brother Passes...

Dearest in Christ,

Greetings from your brothers and sisters here in Wotutu and Cameroon. We do hope this report finds you all in good health and a sound faith. We are doing our best here and God is blessing our efforts daily.

We just returned from a long tiring journey to a village for a funeral. Some students made transit to their areas for weekend evangelism thereafter.

Last week went on well, as our students gained daily from the last courses that will take them to their different locations after graduation in December. We are doing a lot now to finalize their stay at CBIW as they are eager to start serving full time.

Our congregation is blessed again with a new born baby. Sister Adamu is less than a year in our congregation. She stood with her husband as they brought their new born baby for prayers. The husband came because he said, “Let me come and see, after all we don’t worship today.” He is a Muslim and he really enjoyed our worship and I had some time with him in my office to point him to the Bible. Wow! I gave him a tract that is a reply to a Muslim and that was great for him to come back to me after one week.

I spoke during the funeral of minister Nangoh Rudolf in his home town. It was a moment of sadness and reflection. The wife stood during eulogies and said, “What else is the reason for us to live? Oh, oh, what a day again. History repeated itself again as preachers serve and when they die, their families are left without a pillar. Most preachers in Cameroon will die without their own home, and their families remain renting until they are unable to pay the rent again and they will be thrown out of the house. Sister Pauline Nangohs cried out that God would allow her husband to live a little while, but that God’s will is done. Please keep this family in your prayers.

Brother Mbappe baptized brother Damacious, the husband of sister Adamu, who came and worshipped with us for the very first time sluggishly because Christians worship on Sunday, but they worship on Friday as a Muslim. The gospel is powerful. We thank God for the power he has placed in our hands which is more than all missiles.

Keep this brother in your prayers, so that he will stand the persecution that will come from his kinsmen.

Plans
We are planning to make a trip to Mamfe for the annual Bible lectureship. It is purely for evangelism to help the local congregation. Keep praying for us to get the transport means to move there.

Appreciations
We give glory to God for you, for all that you are doing here for us. If not for you we doubt how far this work would have gone. God bless you. Replenish all that you are using wisely for this work. He will reward you in due season, so do not faint.

Do your best to share this with others.

Elangwe and family
By His grace director CBIW

The Pivotal Word: Growth...

Growth is the key word for the week. Students are returning to classes this week in Denver. For some, it will be the last quarter of studies before they graduate and enter the work. For others, it will be their second quarter and the challenge of beginning their studies in the Greek language. We are sure they would appreciate your prayers as they begin the first of three quarters of intense study in another language, while keeping up with their additional classes.

We see growth in the program this week as the Kenya School of Preaching began their second class of students. KSOP’s recent graduation in August was an exciting achievement. Now, recognizing their selection of 20 students out of 47 for the second class is amazing. We look forward to learning more about the growth of these men in preparing themselves to preach the gospel in their country.

Further growth unfolds over the next month as two locations (Chimala and Takoradi) will host their graduation ceremonies for the men who are prepared to finish their studies and enter the work. The accomplishments of these men will not go unnoticed or be in vain as they reach out with the gospel of Christ to the lost of their countries.

Growth also came this week in the form of God’s increase to the kingdom. Souls in several locations were added to the church as the gospel was proclaimed and people responded by being baptized into Christ. The joy of reading about these individuals, their love for learning the truth, and their obedience to it, cannot be overstated.

Reading about the growth of the program in Denver and around the world is rewarding in many ways. The fact that God has given us an opportunity to share in the training of preachers on a global scale is beyond words. Our God is great and the development of this work is exciting!!

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/

Extension Reports 

Gaining Ground In The Prison Ministry Of Cameroon: Throughout the activities of CBIW, the work unfolding in the local prison ministry is reaching out in powerful ways with the gospel.

A New Class Is Settling Into The Work Of The KSOP: Students are excited to begin their journey of biblical studies in Kenya. Twenty men are preparing for kingdom work.

Another Quarter Is Completed in Ghana: Students at the Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies finished another quarter and have a short break before continuing their studies.

Graduation Approaches In Chimala And New Students Prepare: Graduation at the Chimala Bible Institute is less than two weeks away and 27 new students prepare to begin.

Graduation, Support, A Baptism, Ebenezer Amable, And Brother Asiamah: These headings are developed in a recent report from the brethren in Takoradi, Ghana about their work.

A New Congregation Is Born Out Of The Recent Bible Lectureship: The Southwest School of Evangelism participated in a recent Bible Lectureship that led to the start of a new congregation.

Areawide Evangelism Meeting Leads To 40 Calls Or Texts: The church in Arusha, Tanzania is distributing tracts with information to call or text one of the leaders, and it is working.

A Different Flavor For Reporting From Daniel Gaines: If you enjoy watching and listening to the report, you will love this week’s message from the Gaines’ family in Tanzania.

Final Thoughts 
As we close out this week’s report, we thank you for taking time to read through the information provided from each location. We hope you were as uplifted and encouraged as we were when reading through the reports. Thank you for making this work a part of your service in the kingdom. Our prayer is that God will bless you richly for your efforts.

God bless
Bob

A Different Flavor For Reporting From Daniel Gaines...

The Gaines’ report comes in the form of a video. Please watch and listen to the information from Daniel and his family by going to the following link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O1oG3HkaETQ&feature=youtu.be

Areawide Evangelism Meeting Leads To 40 Calls Or Texts...

Greetings Fellow Servants, 

We rejoice with humble hearts in the fact we are privileged to serve together in the seeking and saving of the lost of this world, to the glory of our Heavenly Father. Thank you for caring, for praying, and for your support of God’s mission effort here in Tanzania. There is always so much good going on, being reported, and so little space to share. Here are a couple of recent events that really demonstrate God’s love and His power at work in the lives of His saints here in Tanzania. 

“It works brother as you always say...work work work work work work work...” Godfrey Mngoma (evangelist for the Arusha congregation, team leader for our Translation team, ACSOP instructor and President of the ACSOP Alumni Association) wrote regarding the baptism of our new sister in Christ, Diana. 

Yesterday, at the Arusha areawide Evangelism meeting (each month the evangelist from the eight congregations in Arusha get together and discuss how they can help one another in the discipling of the lost of this area and as well as the Lord’s church) Godfrey recounted the Arusha congregation’s outreach plan (and results). For the last 90 days each member was given one Bible tract (at each church service) and simply asked to give it to a friend, neighbor or co-worker, etc. Godfrey puts his phone number on each tract, insuring anyone who has a question or would like additional information can call him. 

As a result, more than 40 calls or text have been received. They have met with and established 34 Bible studies, had two visitors at the worship service, and one soul has already been added to the Kingdom. The secret? Willing hearts.....willing hands.....and yes, work, work, work! What a truly simple, yet amazing idea. 

Another great example of team work, unity, cooperation, and love as the report of each man at the Arusha Evangelism meeting regarding the increase the Lord has given this year alone in His church in the Arusha area. At least 132 souls have said yes to the saving message of the Gospel. Amen! Thanks be to our God, great things He is doing!

There are many factors that made this possible: for sure the love of God, the power of the gospel, our friends and supporters, and because each of these congregations are being lead by trained, qualified, faithful evangelist who have studied God’s Word at the Andrew Connally School of Preaching and are now taking the gospel of our Lord to their own people. Preacher training schools are an amazing way to “disciple the world.” 

May your week be fruitful as you continue in your service to Him and to His people, the people of the world. Let us never forget, God is always willing and able if we are willing to serve. God is love. Let us love one another.

Please remember Granny in your prayers. She has some health issues that are troubling her (and us). We believe, and know, God is able and that He always answers the prayers of His righteous in the best way possible. 

Until all have heard...

In Him,
Cy, Stephanie and Granny

A New Congregation Is Born Out Of The Recent Bible Lectureship...

Dear fellow soldiers of the cross,

Greetings from your co-laborers in Christ.

We paid a condolence visit to the wife of our late brother, sister Okome yesterday before I left Ogun state to spend the night with the Meiran brethren in Lagos state.

By 5:30 am, I left Meiran to teach the ten SWSE students at the Ikorodu campus on “The Fundamentals of the Faith” from 8:00 am till 4:00 pm. The Ikorodu campus is being tutored by two of the SWSE graduates (brother Mfon Etim and brother Okoro Chinyere) and a graduate of WNCC named brother Linus Agada.

During my visit, brother Mfon Etim informed me that he and the rest of SWSE Ikorodu teamed up with some brethren to plant the Lord 's church at Oworo two weeks ago through mass evangelism and an open-air Bible Lectureship that gave birth to the church at Oworo. The results included two conversions and two restorations of the families of four each during the Friday through Sunday afternoon evangelism of October 3-5, 2014.

Brethren, the new campus at Ikorodu is in need of books for their library and hymn books for that satellite campus. I will make the photocopies of the material we are using at the main campus available to them, Lord willing, on November 25, 2014.

A big thanks to 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 vineyard,

Makinde E. Olufemi (Director of Studies)
Southwest School of Evangelism (SWSE), Nigeria

Graduation, Support, A Baptism, Ebenezer Amable, And Brother Asiamah...

Dear Brethren,

As has been said in an earlier report, the new school year began on September 15, 2014. It began with fifteen (15) new students. We had earlier reported that seventeen (17) new students were coming but two had called to say they were no more coming. However, additional two have also called to express their readiness to come. We are in contact with them and would know in the next week or two how things would turn out to be. Below is a group picture of those new students in attendance.

Graduation
As was reported to you, in our beginning of year staff meeting we agreed that the graduation date be shifted to November 29. We are working towards this date. The graduation gowns are being sown and we hope to get them before time.

Support
Brother Collins Agyekum is one of the immediate past students of the school. He has pledged to support our work with ten Cedis (10) each month. His first contribution has been acknowledged in the financial account.

Baptism
Brother Matthew Ackah studied and baptized his mother who has been a worshipper in a denomination all the while. We rejoice with her as she is now added to the Lord’s church.

Also we had one visitor who had come up the hill to see what we do there. We took advantage of his visit to study with him. Below also are pictures of these.

Ebenezer Amable
Ebenezer, one of our immediate past students who was recruited to help as an instructor also began work when we started the new school year.

Daniel Ampadu Asiamah
He continues to receive treatment in Accra and reports indicate he is responding to treatment.

Finally, we thank you all for your support and prayer and hope you would continue to pray for us as we continue with our labour in the Kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus.

Thank you all once again.

Charles

Graduation Approaches In Chimala And New Students Prepare...

We were privileged to travel to Arusha, Tanzania and attend the Leadership Conference at the Andrew Connally School of Preaching this month. We spoke twice on Nehemiah and heard many local preachers speak on this vital topic. It was so inspiring and rewarding to see the unity and strong desire to advance the cause of Christ of Tanzanian, Kenyan and Ugandan brethren.  

I was able to stay with Cy and Stephanie Stafford, and their hospitality was outstanding. The house guests included Ralph and Cindy Williams. Boaz Kasiba, one of the teachers at CBI and an elder in the local church, also traveled to the conference and spoke on leadership. He was invited to preach at the local church on Sunday. Boaz and I then traveled back to Chimala where we both began teaching our students. 

Boaz is teaching the Holy Spirit and Revelation, and I am teaching World Religions and Church History. Along with the rest of the teachers, we are also making plans for the next school year. We already have 27 students lined up to come in 2015. We are pleased to have a large group from other countries besides Tanzania in our student body. 

Jean Niyonkuru is from Burundi. He was converted in a regugee camp and desires to return to his country and build the church when he finishes. Mkoko Celestin was converted by a World Bible School track while in the refugee camp and is from the Congo. He has been a Christian since 2010 and has a strong desire to return to the Congo when he finishes at Chimala Bible Institute. 

Asenda Evaristo became a Christian when the local preacher from Kidoma, Tanzania taught him the gospel in 2003. He has a tremendous passion for learning the New Testament and also desires to return to his war torn country when he is able to “preach Christ.” 

Another refugee from the Congo is Makyambe Mwinde Eminya. He was converted when he started the study provided by the World Bible School and his teacher was a Christian woman from Texas. He was baptized when he learned the truth and was able to attend the school of preaching in Dar es Salaam. After finishing there, he wanted to continue his Bible education and is now finishing his first year in the English program at the Chimala Bible Institute. He says he is here because he wants to “learn the whole Bible” so he can return to the Congo and preach.

It is students like these men who make the work at CBI so rewarding, men who are willing to sacrifice to prepare themselves to share the gospel to their homes. May God continue to bless them and all of our students’ efforts to serve God.

Garry L. Hill
Director of Chimala Bible Institute
for the Bear Valley Bible Institute of Denver

Another Quarter Is Completed In Ghana...

The Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies, as usual, is enjoying the good blessings of the Almighty God. With barely a few days to come to the close of work for the quarter, everything has gone well with us with regards to the program of activities.

By the grace of God, brother Joe Wilkie is healthy and doing marvelously with his class. He has proved to be very efficient and hardworking. The Institute, therefore, wishes to thank all those who supported him to render such a service here in the Northern Region of Ghana. It is our prayer that he continues to be a part of the work of the Lord going on here in Ghana. 

As scheduled, the Institute will be vacating on Friday, the 17th of October, 2014. We are, by this report, thanking all our dear sponsors, coordinators, staff and well-wishers for their prayers and efforts toward a successful quarter.

May our good Lord continue to bind, protect and guide us in our service in his Vineyard.

Baah Joseph Okyere

A New Class Is Settling Into The Work Of The KSOP...

Brethren,

Greetings from Kenya School of Preaching. We pray you all are doing well in the Lord.

The weather is cool here for us, while very cold for the natives of Kisumu who are used to hot weather. We have unusually heavy rains in October accompanied by power blackouts which seem to be normal, yet very disturbing.

We are happy to report that all 20 new students that were selected out of 47 applicants are settling down well in Kisumu. They have been in class for two weeks now studying the New Testament Church, Genesis, Life of Christ 1, Acts, and Homiletics.

Already, the impact can be seen. Some of the students who had been trained in liberal schools, where they were taught errors and earned titles like overseers / pastors, could not hide their joy at how the Bible is accurately divided at KSOP. We are very excited with the applications we received. As a result of the good influence and work being done by the first class, our labors are not in vain. The students are very open minded, eager to learn, uproot the errors in their service to God, and the errors in their home congregations.

Elias began evangelizing with the new students and we expect good result from the work. To get better results we will need study materials, tracts, and correspondence courses to reach many souls.

On October 9th I traveled to Arusha, Tanzania for the Leadership conference where I was one of the speakers.  This was a great opportunity for me to recharge my battery that was draining fast while listening to very able speakers in attendance. Also, I shared great moments with other ACSOP alumni who are all in the Lord’s field working and the production is great.

I had a wonderful time with Cy Stafford, Stephanie and Granny. He is a father and mentor to me, among others. I was really inspired and encouraged by the wisdom and vast experience he shared with me. I received two boxes of books for the KSOP library, even though we are not even a quarter way with the school library.  

The week I traveled to Arusha, I was attacked by malaria and I got medicine. When I came back home I got a heavy malaria and typhoid attack again. The doctor said the medicine I was given first is no longer effective for some malaria. Keep me in your prayers.

We thank all of you for your prayers and assistance to keep laboring in the Lord’s field. God bless you more.

His worker,
Charles Ogutu

Gaining Ground In The Prison Ministry Of Cameroon...

Dearest in Christ,

Accept greetings from Cameroon. I am going to send a very short report because there is no internet and my camera just went bad. Oh, I don’t know what to do for next week to get my pictorial report which I love to send because I may not have it before then, but I will try to see if it gets back. The lens is out and cannot get back inside.

Last week was great as our students are finalizing their studies and also preaching their senior sermons in the Wotutu congregation for the congregation to watch them and make criticism. Keep them in your prayers.

Brother Bea Shadrack, our former student, who is now a full time evangelist with the Buea Road congregation in Kumba. God blessed him yesterday to finally take the hands of sister Fertbert in marriage. Much is till pending for the bride price to fully be free. Keep this young evangelist in your prayers. We continue to be of great encouragement to our students even after their graduation.

Our prison ministry is gaining grounds as we continue to make waves with the gospel and to meet souls who are eager to listen to the truth. After our worship we meet prospects and share the gospel with them, like Mr. William the Roman Catholic representative inside the prison. He came and worshiped with us today and I exposed to him the truth and we handed out more Mission Printing tracts to read. What must I do to be save. We shall continue the follow up on Wednesday.

Our students are gaining experience as they love to go to prison and preach. Brother Yanick was happy after the worship that the scripture has been fulfilled in his life by visiting those in prison.

The lady, who is our closest neighbor, has children who have started seeing the truth. One of them, Abel, obeyed the gospel in the course of the week. Keep him in your prayers.

Enow is her child also. He obeyed, showing the gospel is powerful. Keep this family in your prayers. A total of three precious souls obeyed the gospel within the week.

All our students who went out to do mission work for weekend evangelism are doing well and most congregations are signing contracts to work with our students full time upon their graduation.

Appreciation
Thanks very much for your love for the work here in Cameroon. Only God will reward you for such a wonderful gestures.

Share with others.
Elangwe and family

Campaigns, Conversions, And Church Growth To God's Glory...

Preliminary reports are starting to trickle in from various campaigns students conducted in Arizona and Colorado. We hope to have more detailed information of what was done in the next week or so. The students are enjoying a short break before they begin another quarter of studies next week. The practical experience gained from these campaigns allows each student to use the knowledge and skills they gain during each quarter of study.

These same principles are connected to each location where we are privileged to work around the world. Reading the reports from each location on a weekly basis deepens the encouragement gained from the dedication and sacrifice the staff and students make. There is a sense of awe in learning how God is blessing their efforts and preparing each student for the future work they will participate in where they live.

This week’s report is no exception. Four stateside staff members provide information about their current role and recent activities. Additionally, the news from reporting locations again reveals the power of God’s word in saving souls for the kingdom. An update on the work in Ukraine is part of this week’s report, as well as, news from Nepal, Nigeria, Cameroon, and Tanzania. We pray you will be encouraged and edified by the information shared this week.

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/

Jerry Bates latest report can be read by clicking here.

Luis Comacho latest report can be read by clicking here.

Howell Ferguson latest report can be read by clicking here.

Donnie Bates latest report can be read by clicking here.

Extension Reports 

Students Enter Their Final Quarter Of Study In Cameroon: After returning from campaign, students enter their last quarter of studies before graduating in December.

Youth Camp In Nepal Yields Fruit: Recent news about a youth camp in Kathmandu Valley brings four souls to the kingdom in Nepal. 

Amidst The Difficulties In Ukraine, The Church Is Growing And Classes Began: The report from Dennis shares growth of the church and school in Ternopil.

The Past Week Has Been A Busy one In Nigeria: Staff and students at the Southwest School of Evangelism have been busy preaching and teaching throughout Nigeria.

16 Years After Its Beginning, The Vision Is Working On A Grand Scale: The Andrew Connally School of Preaching is fulfilling its original vision, as the TLC reveals.

Tanzania Leadership Conference Influences The Direction Of Leaders: This year’s annual Leadership Conference (TLC) was a huge success.

Final Thoughts 
Just a quick note of thanks to let you know how much we appreciate the time you take to read the reports and your involvement in extension training. We could not do this work without you. God has blessed us with many opportunities and He works through you to help this program continue to influence lives each day. Thank you.

God bless
Bob

Tanzania Leadership Conference Influences The Direction Of Leaders...

Last week the brethren of East Africa got a little TLC. Of course, I'm talking about their time at the Tanzanian Leadership Conference. Church leaders from 3 East African nations gathered at the Andrew Connally School of Preaching for four days of fellowship and lectures aimed at improving leadership skills. This year's theme was Lessons on Leadership from Nehemiah. It was an enriching endeavor as Nehemiah does prove to be an excellent case-study in leadership. 

This was my first experience with TLC. I found it to be kind of like an African version of Polishing the Pulpit or the Freed-Hardeman Lectures. Many of the attendees were alumni of the school. This was a great time to catch up with them, and see how their work is going. There were also Ladies sessions, and Tiffany was honored to be among the women who taught lessons. We were also glad to have American visitors, Ralph and Cindy Williams, and Garry Hill, participating in the event.

Times like this offer encouragement in knowing how the church is thriving across East Africa. We expect that God will continue doing great things hear, and that the harvest will continue to be abundant. Take courage, my friends, to know that the kingdom is thriving and that victories are being won each day.

Daniel Gaines

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

16 Years After Its Beginning, The Vision Is Working On A Grand Scale...

Greetings Fellow Servants:

Thank you! Thank you for your love and support for God’s mission work where you are and for God’s work here in Tanzania, East Africa. We know, without you, fewer souls would hear the gospel and fewer souls would be saved. 

The Tanzania mission effort that began over 16 years ago had a vision of training men God’s word in their own country, that in turn they would take God’s Word to their own people. It is working on a grand scale. Thanks be to God along with each and everyone of you. 

Each year we host the Tanzania Leadership Conference here at the Andrew Connally School of Preaching. Our goal is to teach leadership, church growth, and all that entails. This year’s conference centered around the God’s man, Nehemiah, and how he demonstrated leadership for God’s people. Each year the numbers grow, as more and more show a desire to be the people God would have them to be. We have ladies classes as well as classes for the men. 

This year was by far the best year, not only in numbers but in enthusiasm, cooperation, and leadership. This year is the first time our fellow Tanzanian brothers and sisters planned and executed the entire event. Behind the scenes we missionaries encouraged and supported each as they did what was needed. They did an amazing work, each one adding to the success of “discipling” and building up each other in the most Holy Faith. 

Also during this week the Alumni met and discussed how they can help each other in their various ministries. Last year was the first year they met as a group, with 22 present at the meeting. This year, they were 33 in number and all very excited about the future. 

It thrills the soul to see the Lord’s church maturing and working in unity. For sure, the devil is not happy, but with God all things are possible. We thank Ralph and Cindy Williams for coming and participating in this year’s TLC, as well as, our brother Garry Hill. Please remember them and all who will be traveling home over the next day or two. 

We close this Short Report with a request for your prayers on behalf of those who have graduated and are now in the field planting and watering the Seed of God to His glory and to the saving of countless souls throughout East Africa. 

Till all have heard...

In Him,
Cy, Stephanie & Granny

The Past Week Has Been A Busy One In Nigeria...

Dearest in Christ, 

Greetings in the wonderful name of our Lord Jesus Christ from your fellow brethren in Nigeria.

Brother Abraham Idu Yeje and I were the speakers at a day long open-air Bible Lectureship at Ogunbunmi village. The event was a great success, even though the program fell on the Salah festival.

On Sunday, at the Onikokoro / Gbongudu congregation, Ibadan, I taught lesson 4 of the Great Commission title “The How of the Great Commission,” while I also admonished the church on “Facing Challenges with Faith” (1 Samuel 17:40-50; John 11:38-44).

Brother Kayode Solomon Eniafe, one of the SWSE Ibadan instructors, taught on “Be Strong and Be Courageous” at the Egbeda congregation, Ibadan, and brother Nwarorji Emmanuel, a year 1 student of the SWSE Ibadan, taught on “The NT Church” at the young congregation in Ilisan Remo, Ogun state, while brother Dele Shotola admonished the church on “The True Worship.” They had 22 in attendance at the young congregation in Ilisan Remo.

All our year 2 students were very active in the service of the Lord on the Lord's day of Octobter 5th, 2014.

Brethren, the school will be on Vocational Training from October 10 - November 7, 2014, while the second semester classes commence on November 10, 2014 - Lord willing.

Beloved, we thank you for all you are doing for the Lord. May the Lord of blessing continue to bless all your undertaking in Jesus Christ name.

We started our first semester examinations at the Ibadan main campus on Monday. October 4th,2014 and concluded on Friday afternoon to enable our students go on the month long vocational training in Lagos, Ibadan, Oyo state and Osun state.

At the Monday morning devotion, between 5:00 am to 6:00 am, I taught at the campus on “The Winning Formula” (study from the life of Christ). Brother Kayode Eniafe taught on “What Does It Profit A Man” (Mark 8:36) during the Tuesday morning devotion, and brother Abraham Idu Yeje, our campus minister, taught at the Wednesday morning devotion on “Looking Unto Jesus” from Hebrews 12, while I taught on “Obedience…The Eternal Principle” (1 Kings 17 & 18) during the Wednesday chapel.

Brother Nwaorji Emmanuel, one of our year 1 students taught on “Grace Means Service” (1 Peter 5:1-11) during the morning devotion.

Beloved, Lord willing, I will send you the semester results on Monday of October 13, 2014 in order to glance at the students performances.

Our plan is to reduce the number of students at the Ibadan campus to twenty five from the 2nd semester that, by God's grace, will commence on November 10, 2014.

In conclusion, I cannot do without thanking those of you who have been contributing in one way or the other for the growth of the Lord's church in Africa, Nigeria in particular. I deeply appreciate all our critics, both positively and negatively. All things work for good for those who are in Christ Jesus.

Thanks once again for your partnership! Earth holds no treasures but perish with using, however precious they be; yet there's a country to which I am going, heaven holds all to me. Heaven holds all to me.....Brighter it's glory will be; joy without measure will be my treasure. Heaven holds all to me.

I won't give up, shut up, or slow down for the cause of Master Jesus. I must go till the end, preach all the truth that I know, and work in His kingdom till He calls me home. I will serve Him in any situation that I find myself and when He comes for His own, by His grace, I will be among the numbers that will be saved. Evangelism is my task and heaven is my goooooal!

One of our year one students, named brother Nnamdi Blessing Eze, admonished the staff and the students at the Friday morning devotion at SWSE Ibadan main campus on “Remember Me In Your Kingdom,” while I dismissed the school with a 30 minute sermon on “The Ambassador of Christ,” in the afternoon.

Brethren, we (the WBS TEAM) in Oyo state are in our way for this weekend house to house evangelism at Jago village with the few students that are doing their vocational training inland. Brother Kayode Eniafe will be leading the SWSE students in Osun state for this weekend assignment.

We (the WBS team in Oyo and Osun states) evangelized Jago village over the weekend with the remnant left in that congregation due to the storm of life that nearly devastated this young congregation planted two years ago by the staff and students of SWSE Ibadan.

Before I arrived at Jago with brother Dele Shotola, brother James Waleola, and some SWSE students who are in Ibadan for four weeks vocational training, brother Kayode Solomon Eniafe and brother David Edor (the evangelist working with Jago congregation) already divided the participants, mainly the SWSE Ibadan students, into four groups.

Three groups were assigned to house-to-house evangelism, while I, brother Dele Shotola, and brother Kayode Eniafe worked with brother David Edor to visit the erring brethren on that Saturday. Our joint effort resulted in the restoration of two families of seven.

Today, Lord's day, I concluded my five Sunday teaching on “The Great Commission” at the Onikokoro / Gbongudu congregation in Ibadan, as I taught on the “Why?” of the Great Commission, and brother James Waleola admonished the church on “Living a New Life” (Ephesians 4:17-32).

Beloved, I will be home resting till Thursday and, Lord willing, I will travel to Lagos state with some SWSE foundation members to pay a condolent visit to the family of our late brother Philip Okome. On Saturday I will teach on “The Fundamentals of the Faith” at our new campus in Ikorodu, Lagos.

Brethren, it is a blessing to be part of the soldiers of the cross. A big thanks to you all for your encouragement in words and in financial support! May the Lord of blessing continue to bless each and every one of you in Christ 's name, amen. 

Keep on laboring in the Lord's vineyard, for we shall be rewarded here on earth and over there in heaven (Matthew 10:41-42; Hebrew 4:11)

I remain yours in His grace as a servant,

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

Amidst The Difficulties In Ukraine, The Church Is Growing And Classes Began...

Dear brothers, families and churches.

The situation in Ukraine is still difficult. Military actions are still taking place in Donetsk and Lugansk areas. Many people (both civilians and soldiers) die there daily on both sides due to the military actions. We are praying for peace and stability, and maybe God will give us new lessons on how important it is to appreciate peace, how important it is to build a moral Christian society, how important it is to value the time that we have. Studying the history of Jewish nation, we see that history of this world repeats itself. A society that departs from God can be punished by an even more wicked nation, which is in turn being punished by God. We will rely upon God’s wisdom and hope that the Ukrainian nation is ready to learn these lessons. 

Church of Christ in Ternopil
The church of Christ in Ternopil is making its first steps now. We have a wonderful place and a good team of missionaries. We continue getting acquainted with the city and our neighbors.  For several days we have been evangelizing on the streets. We brought out a table with Christian literature and invited people passing by to attend Bible studies.  Some people were interested and talked to us; others were very cautious. Because of the historical background (this territory was under Poland and was influenced by Catholicism), many citizens of Ternopil seriously consider traditional churches (Catholic, Orthodox, Uniats), and I think it is a problem all around the world. There are about 20-22 people attending our Sunday services regularly. Mostly these are students, teachers at the Institute and several from Ternopil. During this short period of time we were blessed by visits of our American brothers Howell Ferguson, Denton Landon, Johnny Mack Young, Walter Rayburn, Jim Sherman, and Dennis Curd. They were able to really encourage both the Institute and the church. These brothers have a huge missionary experience in Ukraine. Despite the military actions in the east of the country, they are still with us. We pray for their work and ministry here. 

Also in September, we started a Bible School for children: “Sunflower.” We had a grand opening of the school and there were many children who attended it. We have prepared a puppet theatre play, skits, games, quizzes songs, and crafts. Presently, we don’t have many children in regular classes. I think they have to get used to us. We are just getting to know the neighborhood and telling them about us. 

Bible institute
Classes started on September 1. As I have mentioned in my previous report, we have 8 students in both courses. We are looking forward to have two more students in the first-year class in November. Due to the fact that we had to move the school, now we are experiencing difficulties with the lack of teachers. We have really moved far from the military actions, and it’s quiet and peaceful here, but many teachers stayed in the Donetsk area. We thought how we can still cooperate with them and decided to use Skype to teach. First of all, it will give an opportunity for teachers not to take unnecessary risks while traveling. Second, they will stay with their families. Also we decided to try new teachers and give them an opportunity to be useful for the Institute. All candidates for teachers are discussed with the coordinator of the Institute before hand. 

Bogdan Chigvintsev and Eugene Tebel continue helping the Institute and the church in their work. Bogdan has dedicated himself to the work with young people and leading small home groups in Bible studies. Eugene teaches Bible classes at church during the week and helps with translating. We are trying to recreate the atmosphere of joy we had in Gorlovka, and I hope we are successful. 

At the moment, we are the only theological Church of Christ school in Ukraine that continued its work. We continue having the same goal of training ministers who will be ready to spread the Gospel among the people. May God bless us and continue helping us in this. 

We are grateful to everyone who supports the Institute and the church in Ternopil. All students and teachers send you their greetings and their gratitude for your faithfulness in this ministry. 

Your brother and coworker in His work,

Dennis Sopelnik

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

Youth Camp In Nepal Yields Fruit...

Greetings to you all from NCBS.

We finished our regular classes. We are in our regular curriculum and routine.

We began our five weeks of long holiday September 29th, 2014. We will begin our class the 3rd of November, 2014. We are always busy and happy in October. We had different faces in this year’s youth camp. New youth were from India, East Nepal. We had 70+ youths. Brother Mithun Tamang (current student), Roshan Rana (member from Dhumbarahi), Praksh Tamang (son of a preacher) and I, lead most of the classes from the book of Luke. We didn't cover all chapters. We selected important and useful topics for the youth and presented classes. Four souls were added into the church. Lessons, game-hour, fellowship made them strong in their faith. Their questions, answers, enthusiasm, fellowship, and friendship were awesome. They left each other with lots of joy in tears. I can't forget that moment.

Members and leaders from Kathmandu valley helped a lot in this youth camp. Christians from outside of Kathmandu valley were supportive. They sent their faithful and good young stars in this class. It shows the fellowship and unity in the church. 

Four souls were added in to His kingdom. Please kindly remember them in your prayer.

If the Lord wills we will begin our vacation trip October 10th. We will revisit India, East Nepal, southwest Nepal. Brother Parsuram, Deepak, Surya, I, and some others, will join us. It will be a 15 day trip. I will be back in Kathmandu on the 24th of October. Please kindly pray for us. This will be an important trip for us. We will get more good students for next year. We will build our unity and strengthen churches. We will try to help grow our congregations through our services. We will do our best.

Thanks

Servant of Christ
Gajendra Deshar

Students Enter Their Final Quarter Of Study In Cameroon...

Dearest in Christ, 

Greetings from your brothers and sisters in Christ. We do hope you are doing great and God continues to do His work in our lives and the work He has entrusted in our hands.

Last week at CBIW went on well. Classes are going on well as students keep growing and anticipating being in the field to labor tirelessly for the Lord. Keep praying for them.

In the cause of the week, all the teachers in our communities came to Wotutu for their meeting and they recognized the church of Christ to come and exhort the entire group which was above 700 in attendance. We had opportunity to discuss, have fellowship with them, and give tracts to many.

After the exhortation, I had them with many of the teachers who came out of Wotutu who had not heard anything about the church of Christ. It was awesome for our students sit and watch as I addressed questions about denominationalism. Many want us to study some more in Bonjongo court areas. That is why, by the grace of God, after our graduation one of our graduates will go to the Bonjongo area for missionary work. Keep him in your prayers.

Last week, during the Wednesday Bible class, it was a solemn day with the Christians and students of CBIW. Students handed over benches to some leaders of the Wotutu congregation. This is a signal that their time of departure is at hand. The Alpha batch of students gave us a pulpit stand. The Beta batch of students gave 5 solid benches to the Wotutu congregation to help in the ever growing population in our congregation. Keep them in your prayers as they finalize their preparations for full time ministry. CBIW is a great blessing, not only to the Wotutu congregation, but to the entire country because the influence of what is happening here is spreading to the entire nation. To God be the glory. 

Sister Rachael Ebia obeyed the gospel in Wotutu during the week. Keep her in your prayers, as she is the first to become a Christian in their family.

Sister Alice Eyang also obeyed the gospel. She is happy to be part of the family.

Plans
We are still making plans for the campaign in Lebialem, a region solely dominated by Catholicism. The roads to get there are really horrible, but wherever the gospel calls, we are ready to go, if we have the means to pay the way. It is long and it is not easy.

We are also planning for the annual Bible lectureship of the church in Cameroon. We shall also use that opportunity to tell other congregations about our graduation, which will come 11 days after the close of the lectureship. It is in Mamfe, very far from Wotutu. If we have the means to move, it will be great. The congregation have invited our school to be there 3 days before the entire brethren arrive. We shall be involved in house to house evangelism to the community. Keep praying for the possibilities for this to come to pass. That will be the last outing with the Beta batch of students.

Appreciations
Many thanks to you, your family, and the congregation for all that they are doing for the work here. If not of them, we doubt how this work would have been possible.

On This Sad Note
From Thursday, I was out of Wotutu to attend the funeral of my wife’s cousin. I transited from that funeral to attend a preacher’s meeting in Kake with two congregations. After the meeting, we were supposed to have another meeting with a congregation. Before we got up from sleep, the preacher that chaired our preacher’s meeting died in his sleep. Please pray for the family of late minister Nangoh Rudolf Obase, who was serving in Kombone village and moved to big Nganjo, his home congregation. He was suffering from high blood pressure. As of now, we don’t have any details of what really killed him. Keep praying for his family because his departure has created a big vacuum in his family and the struggling congregation.

Do your best to share this with others.

Elangwe and family
By His grace director CBIW