The New Class In Kenya Is Commended For Evangelistic Fervor...

My dear brethren,

Receive greetings from your Kenyan family. We trust that you are doing well in Him.

“… you have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this Man's blood on us” Acts 5:28. That cannot be said of us in Kisumu yet, but we have the right workforce using the available resources to accomplish the Lord’s will.

“Very evangelistic minded students,” that’s my evaluation of the KSOP second class so far. It’s amazing how the second class of students is taking seriously evangelism and pulpit preaching. Led by Elias Omollo, the students have been knocking doors and that has led to great Bible classes established and visitors coming to our worship services for the last four Sundays.

One of the families that they studied with astonished them when the man of the house declared, “You have answered all my questions accurately by the Bible, what must I do to be saved?” We pray the family will obey the gospel soon.   

Two former students, Joseph and Jacob, that graduated from the first class are camping in a small center near Mumias town preaching in a village and have been leading worship services. They intend to win more to Christ and plant Lord’s church. Thus far, two have been baptized and seven adults are assembling every first day of the week.

Nixon, also a former KSOP graduate, has been actively involved in the Lord’s work, joining the new students at KSOP for evangelism and preaching at Hellena court.

Korir, another KSOP graduate, wrote on October 13th, “The Lord added three souls to His kingdom yesterday, much thanks to God for that.”  And on October 26th, he wrote again, “The Lord added two souls to His kingdom, thanks to GOD.” This is just to mention a few.

The men are in the Lord’s field and working. Thank you for your prayers and assistance to enable this.

We are doing well with the classes at KSOP and everything is according to schedule. We expect the short course teacher at the end of the week, Obadiah Omutele, who will teach Personal Evangelism.

God bless your great work in the Kingdom.

His servant,
Charles Ogutu

Despite The Grave Challenges, BVBIU Continues To Make A Difference...

Hello dear brothers, families and churches.

The situation in Ukraine is still tense and difficult. The military actions continue to take place. On November 2, DNR and LNR had their elections, and Russia acknowledged this new government on these territories. Now DNR (as their leaders proclaim) is a separate country, which will have its own financial, taxing, military and administrative systems. Gorlovka is on the other side of the front, and more than likely, we won’t be able to return to our town any time soon. The process might take several years. Even now many people are moving out of that territory, leaving their homes, jobs, and businesses. There are several humanitarian aid missions that try to help refugees and those who stayed on the territory occupied by the insurgents. I urge you to pray with us for the peace in Ukraine.

The situation is becoming more stable in other parts of Ukraine. People are longing for peace; they want political and economical reforms. We believe in the better future of our country and are willing to help it in any way we can. 

Church of Christ
For two months and a half, we have been having services. The church consists mostly of students, local Christians and several families who moved from eastern Ukraine. Church services are held in Russian, though many of us are trying to speak Ukrainian. It’s difficult for us to change languages, though many of us heard and understood both of them since childhood. Also we have midweek Bible classes, Bible classes for kids and youth group meetings. Step by step, people in the neighborhood get to know about the church; they know that the church of Christ and the Bible Institute now rent the place, which used to be a store. Last week BV students had practice in evangelizing. Most of the students stayed in Ternopil, and some went to Dnepropetrovsk. Those who stayed in Ternopil were divided into four groups: some stood with the Christian literature display and others went around the city, giving invitations to the church services and making new contacts. How wonderful it was to see two guests at the Sunday service. Also we have two more kids in our Bible School for kids. We will try to do everything to let more people hear the gospel and come to God. 

Bear Valley Bible Institute
The school is doing quite well. These people taught classes in October: Jim Sherman, Dennis Curd, Terry Harmon, Victor Semikoz, Vitaliy Rodichev, and I. Terry Harmon and Vitaliy Rodichev taught classes via Skype. Of course, it’s impossible to find a good substitute for live communication, but it is a better way of having classes at school for now. We thank our American brothers for helping us buy some very needed things for the school: chairs, heaters, microwave, and a computer. Of course, it’s very difficult to get all at once, but God blesses us to have what is necessary. Many Ukrainian teachers express their wish for us to move closer to them. We think about that option, and the most suitable city for such move would be Dnepropetrovsk. It’s a big city with good infrastructure, airport, and what is more important it’s a safe distance from military actions, yet close to where most of our teachers live. Also there is a nice building there; it’s where our graduate, Alexander (Sasha) Rodichev preaches.  

We have also managed to fix the video connection with Dan Owen via Polycom system. We couldn’t find a repairperson for a long time, but because of the documents with instructions about Polycom setup in Russian language – we were able to fix it.

There is another young man from Dnepropetrovsk who wants to join our program in November; his name is Klim. God blesses us with students who are willing to dedicate their lives to preaching the gospel.  

Students express their gratitude to our American brothers for their financial help and to the church of Christ in Ivano-Frankivsk for the humanitarian aid in the form of blankets and clothes.   

We are grateful for your prayers and support in our ministry. Spreading the sound doctrine is the most important task given to the disciples of Jesus Christ. God bless you.

Your brother and co-worker,
Dennis Sopelnik

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

Another Encouraging Angle Of The Recent Work In Nepal...

From the first of October to the fifth, we had a youth Bible camp at the Nepal Centre for Biblical Studies (NCBS). We had youth from all over the country including some from India. We had around sixty people or more. The camp was really encouraging as well as fun for all the youth. We had some of the youth give classes at the camp. Including myself, some of the other youth that gave the Bible lessons were Prakash and Mithun (current student at NCBS). Brother Gajendra also gave some lessons. The camp was very much appreciated by all the youth and there was a positive response from all those attending the camp. Most of the youth were in tears at the end of the camp when it was time to return home.

About a week after the Bible camp, Barsha Rajani and I traveled to East Nepal to visit as well as have Bible studies at the homes of the various youth that attended the camp. On October 15, the three of us took a bus to Surunga, Jhapa. We arrived at the home of Brother Bharat around 9:30 pm and stayed there the night. The next morning, we went to brother Shanti’s house in Birtamod for Bible class. There we met up with brothers Gajendra, Surya, Parsuram and Deepak, who had traveled earlier to India for Bible classes. That evening we had an evening devotion at brother Bharat’s nephew’s home. The next morning, we had a Bible encouragement class at the same place. There were a lot of non- Christians too so we got share the Gospel with them. We also visited some wonderful places in Surunga.

On October 18, Saturday, the three of us along with the brothers from Kathmandu, traveled to Dharan. We got to visit some beautiful places in Dharan that day. That evening, we had a Bible class at the home of one of the youth that attended the youth camp. The next morning we had our Sunday worship at the Church building in Dharan. We spent the day with all the children that we met at the youth camp. That evening we had bible study at the home of another youth who attended the camp.

Early the next morning, the rest of us took a bus to Rajni’s house at Lalbandhi. We visited her family and had a devotion class that evening. We stayed there one night and then we traveled to Hetauda the next day to Arun’s (former student of NCBS, currently taking a Bible course in India) house. We had a family Bible class there as well.

On October 22, Wednesday, we traveled by bus to the home of brother Chandra Prakash (former student at NCBS) in Kalikatar. On the way, we also stopped at Sauraha, Chitwan for a boat ride and a short tour of the jungle. We arrived at Kalikatar in the late evening. The next day we had Bible class at the Church building at Kalikatar. That afternoon, Brother Gajendra and I also went higher up in the hills to the village of some of the current students at NCBS( Dil Bahadur, Surendra, Khadka Bahadur and Imm Bahadur). We met their families and returned back to brother Chandra Prakash’s house.

On October 24, Friday, we headed back home to Kathmandu. 

The trip was a wonderful and encouraging experience for the three of us. We had a lot of fun traveling to various beautiful places, meeting youth from various parts of the country along with their families, and especially being able to have bible classes at different places. We look forward to doing this again in the future if God is willing. I have attached a few pictures of our trip along with this report.

Last but not least, I would like to thank all the brothers and sisters in Christ in Bear Valley for their continued support and encouragement. This trip would not have been possible without your help. May God bless all of you. 

Thank you all very much,
Roshan Rana

Approaching Graduation Anticipates Great Attendance In Cameroon...

Dearest in Christ,

Greetings from your brothers and sisters here in Cameroon. God is faithful to us. We are doing great here, even though many are sick because of the change in climate now.

Our students continue to grow and they make their preparation for graduation. Many of our students have made invitation cards for their graduation.

This year we are expecting a big crowd because of the number of those who will be graduating. During the alpha graduation, we graduated 17 students and those that came to attend the graduation was 1352 people. This year we are going to graduate 26 students, by the grace of God, and 23 new students may be the population we are expecting if the economic hardship of Cameroon will not stop many to attend from distance places.

As I write this report, our students who went out for weekend evangelism are back, as they reached out to souls and also use that opportunity to give out their invitations to invite many to come to Wotutu.

God continues to bless the prison ministry as two souls were added today again. Wow, the brethren are still eager to get some correspondent courses, as they prepare themselves for study in the school of preaching.

We are able to show the work here, as many continue to grow in our congregation and work. This month we are dealing with the theme “Spiritual Check-Up,” giving opportunity to our Christians to check themselves again and again (2 Co. 13:5).

Plans
We are making preparation for the annual Bible lectureship of the churches of Christ in Cameroon, which will take place the 25th to the 30th of November, but our congregation and students will return to Wotutu on the 28th because elder Randy and wife will be entering Cameroon on the 29th to teach “The Pastoral Epistles,” which will be the last course for our students before going into the field. Keep the students in your prayers and elder Randy and their trip to Cameroon.

Appreciations
God bless you and keep you strong. Thanks for all that you do towards the growth of the work here.

God bless you.

Elangwe and family
By His grace director CBIW

Seeing The Demonstrations Of God's Hand At Work...

Each week that goes by brings us closer to the end of another year and the beginning of a new one. With only two months left in 2014 there is much to reflect on from the year past and all the schools accomplished. Between now and the new year, information will be collected to share with everyone about the achievements of the work in each location. Based on the information from 2013 this will be an exciting time. The program is growing and the level of communication continues to improve.

New reports for the week give a glimpse of the information that will inform the year-end report. The encouragement received from reading about the sacrifices the staff and students are willing to make, the dedication demonstrated by each, and the love that flows from their efforts to share the gospel with others, makes this an incredible opportunity to change the world. 

The work continues by the grace of God and each of you are an instrument in the hands of the Almighty to see the continuation of this work. The fellowship we share as co-workers, together with God, insures the success of the gospel going forth into every nation. Our plans for future development increase the ability the extension program provides in going even further into all the world. We look forward to sharing news about this growth in the years ahead.

We all know there is power in prayer and we ask you to be praying with us and for us as we expand the work in 2015 and beyond. Our God continues to be faithful in answering prayer for this work. We know everyone has seen the demonstration of God’s hand at work. Thank you in advance for all you do.

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/

Read the latest report from Tony Johnson by clicking here.

Read the latest report from Donnie Estep by clicking here.

Read the latest report from Gary Fallis by clicking here.

Read the latest report from Howell Ferguson by clicking here.

Extension Reports 

Students Near The End Of Their Studies: While students near graduation in Cameroon, their efforts to reach out with the gospel continue to see fruit as souls are added to the church.

Congregations Get Help From Uganda School Of Evangelism Students: A decision to help local congregations encourages the brethren in Uganda and gives students experience.

Seven Years And Counting In Cambodia: The years have passed quickly for Phanat Ouch, as he begins his eighth year of work. Phanat reflects on the benefit of his time in Cambodia.

Recent Break In Nepal Leads To Fruitful Service: A recent break from classes in Nepal brought encouraging fellowship, strengthen to congregations, and souls added to the kingdom.

Seminar On Autonomy And Cooperation In Ghana: The Southern Institute of Biblical Studies in Nsawam, Ghana recently hosted a seminar needed to help strengthen the church in Ghana.

Ten Conversions And Eight Restorations In Nigeria: The report from Nigeria is filled with news about graduates, an illness with brother Makinde, and the increase provided by God.

A Thanksgiving Challenge Worth Considering: Examining the needs in Arusha, coupled with a matching gift, make this a “thanksgiving challenge” worth taking time to read.

Missing Home? Think Again From This Perspective: The Gaines’ family prepares for their furlough and provides an interesting perspective about what they miss from home.

Final Thoughts 
One closing word of thanks to each of you for continuing to support the work of extension training. This support involves your prayers, encouragement, time, talent, and finances. We are constantly amazed at your willingness to give whatever it takes to fulfill the task of preaching the gospel throughout the world. We love you all.

God bless
Bob

Missing Home? Think Again From This Perspective...

Furlough is just around the corner, so we are naturally thinking excitedly about getting back to the U.S.  People often ask us, “What do you miss most about home?” The biggest and most obvious thing is family and friends. There is just no way to quantify what it is like to leave them behind, and we absolutely can’t wait to see them again. But aside from people, here is a list (in no particular order) of five things that I miss most about life in the States.

1.  Reliable Electricity – When the electricity goes out I feel so powerless! It’s not really a big deal at first. We just get out the lanterns and continue our business. It doesn’t even scare the kids anymore. However, when we hit a stretch where there are long power outages for several days in a row it really, really gets old… fast. I’m actually sitting in the dark of a power outage as I write this (maybe why this made #1 on the list). We do have a generator, but unfortunately it has been broken more often than it has worked since we got here.

On the other hand – We do have electricity a lot of the time. I can’t say the same for many of the people here. 

2.  Clean Water – Boiling water to drink or cook with is a chore that has to be done a couple of times a day. After it boils then it has to cool and be filtered before we drink it. When we wash dishes (by hand of course), we have to rinse them in bleach water to make sure that microorganisms don’t get left behind. The same goes for washing all produce that we buy. Again, it is not really that big of a deal, but it does get annoying.

One the other hand – We do have reliable plumbing that brings water right to our faucets every time. I don’t have to go far down the road to see people without plumbing at all. They go to a public water supply and fill buckets with water to use. Their toilets simply empty into a hole beneath the outhouse. 

3.  Blending In – It is easy to tell that we’re not from around here. We stick out. Every time we venture into public we draw eyes and attention. I can’t walk down the road without children pointing and yelling, “Mzungu!” That’s the Swahili word for a white person. That’s novel and cute at first, but does get old after a while. People charge us more in the market because they assume money is no object for a mzungu. We get asked for financial help constantly by both friends and strangers because people assume we can help. Sometimes it would be really nice to not have the color of our skin be the first thing (sometimes it seems the only thing) that people see about us. I miss walking down the street without a mob of people trying to sell me things because they assume that I’m a tourist. I miss blending in occasionally.

On the other hand – Our standing out does open doors for the gospel. Sometimes people will listen to us, when they wouldn’t listen to a local. And we often do have the money to help, which is a HUGE blessing. I really love having the opportunity to help those who aren’t likely to find help elsewhere. 

4.  Fast Food – I don’t mean the taste of fast food. I like the taste of the food here just fine. I mean the speed and convenience of fast food. When traveling or just having a busy day, it would be really nice to have a McDonald’s value meal, being in and out with a meal to go in less than 10 minutes. Here if you eat out, then you probably need to allow for 2 hours almost anywhere you go. Things just move at a slower pace, and people don’t get in a hurry. That’s kind of nice SOMETIMES, but other times you have other things to do.

On the other hand – We have plenty of food. It may come slowly, but it is coming. We’re not missing meals or going hungry. I don’t have to travel far at all to see people who have to worry a lot more about their next meal than I do. 

5.  Traffic – Driving in town feels kind of like a video game – a very real and dangerous game. The rules are just suggestions. Two lanes can easily become four or more. Motorcycles swarm around and through the traffic, operating on a completely different set of guidelines than larger vehicles. It is not unusual that while I’m passing a vehicle for another vehicle to pass me. In the meantime, pedestrians are crossing anywhere they want. Rush hour is beyond stressful, and nighttime driving is just unreasonably dangerous. I can’t wait to get back the land of reasonable traffic patterns and somewhat sane drivers.

On the other hand – We are fortunate enough to have a good vehicle. Most people have to ride on the dala dalas (crowded public transport vans driven by crazed maniacs) and piki pikis (motorcycle taxis driven by crazed maniacs). Meanwhile, we have reliable transportation at our disposal 24 hours a day. What a luxury!

It is hard to feel sorry for yourself for very long here. Every time I think I’ve made a sacrifice for God, I encounter people who didn’t have those blessings to begin with. Every sacrifice, inconvenience, and annoyance has ultimately been well worth it to see the powerful ways that God is at work here. It really is an honor to be His servant wherever He may send me.

Daniel Gaines

A Thanksgiving Challenge Worth Considering...

Greetings Fellow Servants:

We want to say thank you so very much for your prayers for God’s Kingdom work here in Tanzania. Your prayers are being heard and God is truly giving the increase. This is a Very Special Short Report, as you will read.

This is the time of year we start looking, planning, and budgeting for the year to come. We present to you, our friends and supporters with our “Thanksgiving Challenge.” We, as Americans, have been blessed with opportunities like few others in this world. We are a very blessed people of God and with these blessings comes much responsibility. As you consider your giving for the holidays and the year to come we plead with you to continue your prayers and support for God’s work through the Tanzania Mission effort. 

Also, we have some really GREAT NEWS: We just received news from some very dear friends and supporters of God’s Tanzania Mission effort with an amazing “Challenge.” This good brother and sister in Christ have committed $57,500 in matching funds for every dollar donated to God’s work through Tanzania Missions! That’s correct, for every dollar you donate (toward the Thanksgiving Challenge), they will match it, dollar for dollar. The best “two for one deal” I can imagine. 

What this means is, the gospel will be preached bigger and better in the coming months, meaning more and more souls will be saved. We NEED YOU and we NEED YOUR HELP. I want to give you a short list of needs we have, that the work might be all it should be in the coming months. Please consider these as you contemplate giving, that others might be saved:

•We need your prayers most of all. 

•We need to make up a monthly short fall at the Andrew Connally School of Preaching.

•We need to build a meeting house at two locations: Ngordoto and Njiro Chini.

•We need to purchase a van for the ACSOP that our students might be able to go out on weekends and evangelize and work with local congregations, gaining much needed experience and knowledge. 

•We need Bibles.

•We need to print Bible tracts, correspondence courses, and other material. 

•We (Cy & Stephanie) need travel funds for our furlough trip. Also, we need help monthly to make up a short-fall we have for our health insurance needs. 

Brothers and sisters in Christ, we thank you. We love you for partnering with us in the greatest cause on earth, that being “making disciples.” Our decision to help, to do, to give is a matter of life and death. The spiritual well being of countless souls weigh in the balance. What will we do? Please help us reach the $115,000 challenge ($57,500 plus matching funds). 

The Challenge: Please Help Us - Help Them - Help Themselves! To God be the glory, Amen. 

Note: Any donations sent in to meet this challenge, please note on the memo line: “Thanksgiving-Challenge.” These funds will be matched.

In Him,
Cy, Stephanie & Granny

Ten Conversions And Eight Restorations In Nigeria...

Brethren,

Good morning from UCH (University College Hospital), Yemetu Aladorin Annex, Ibadan.

Brethren, the doctor here now declares me okay! I was rushed here early Tuesday morning by my wife due to my inability to breath well as the result of stress coupled with rainfall that fell on me at Ikorodu - Lagos state last Saturday.

I thank all the SWSE foundation members from the Lagos, Ogun and Ibadan and the students for their phone calls, prayers, and visit.

Brethren, I thought the end had come on Tuesday morning, but to my surprise I was able to come back alive after being admitted into the emergency session of this new annex of UC Hospital and being treated as a Governor in UCH with Salbutamol sulphate electric machine treatment and so on.

Brethren, I thank God for your prayers, love, and concern that I was able to live above 50 years. I was 50 years on April 22, 2014, to the glory of God. Please remember me daily in your prayers (Eph. 6:18-19).

The six students with me in Ibadan for their Vocational Training evangelized Otunolode and Olukotun villages of Lagelu Local Government, Oyo state on Saturday, November 1, 2014 between 8:30 am through 12:00 pm. On Saturday evening, they were used in visiting some of our erring brethren and young converts, while those in Osun state with brother Kayode Solomon Eniafe evangelized Ikoyi and Baale -Ayoo on November 1, 2014 and two brethren reported to be restored after leaving the church for years due to the problems and trials of life.

On Sunday, November 2, 2014, one of the SWSE students, named Idowu Segun, taught on “Combating Heresies from the Book of Colossians,” while I admonished the church at Onikokoro  / Gbongudu on “The Key to Walking on the Mountain Top” (Heb.12:1-2).

Brethren, brother Matthew Odey, one of our BVBI students, and presently the evangelist working with Maryland congregation, Lagos state reported the conversion of five souls in October. Brother Matthew Idowu, one of SWSE - Agege, Lagos campus, reported the conversion of three souls and brother Abiola Joseph Olusoji, one of the evangelists of the Agege congregation, and one of SWSE Ibadan campus instructors, reported the conversion of two souls. Brother Mfon Etim, one of the SWSE graduates and the coordinator of our new campus at Ikorodu-Lagos state, reported the restoration of eight brethren at the new congregation in Oworo-Lagos and the rapid growth of the just planted congregation now rises to 65 in attendance as of October 26 ,2014.

Brethren, the SWSE Ibadan resumes for its second semester on November 7, 2014, Lord's willing, with 15 students for diploma courses and 13 for the advanced BVBI certificate program, and five instructors at the Ibadan campus, plus the computer instructor (to make the total six). Brother Guda Mishi, minister of the University of Ibadan congregation, and a Degree holder in Bible subjects from the School of Biblical studies, Jos, Plateau state, will be our visiting instructor on November 24-28, 2014 teaching on the book of Romans for the whole week.

Beloved, we thank you all for your partnership and brotherly love and it 's our fervent prayer that the Lord of blessing will continue blessing our joint effort in Christ name, amen.

Happy Lord's day to you all!

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Makinde Ebens Olufemi
(Founder &  Director of Studies)
Southwest School of Evangelism (SWSE), Ibadan & Lagos satellite campuses

Seminar On Autonomy And Cooperation In Ghana...

Besides [SIBS] main objective to train men to preach the gospel, it has also become our established prerogative to defend the truth of the gospel. In that regard, the [SIBS] administration has deemed it necessary to organize a periodic study program on current issues affecting the growth of the church. Presently, the need to maintain the scriptural organization of the Lord’s church here cannot be over-emphasized.

FIRST [SIBS] LEADERSHIP SEMINAR

Considering the trend in which the church is moving at this time, [SIBS] decided on the theme “Autonomy and the Churches of Christ,” which we thought would be an appropriate study for the brotherhood. Apparently, the church is coming to the crossroads in our organization where some are agitating for the need for kind of “central overseers” for the church. The seminar, organized by [SIBS], sought to address this issue by teaching on how churches could independently exist under their respective local leaders, but harmoniously work together without any central authority. The issue of congregational autonomy has become a subject of debate among the brotherhood for some time now. Under this theme, the following topics were discussed:  “Does the National Registration of Churches of Christ in Ghana Affect Congregational Autonomy?” and “How Can Autonomous Congregations of The Lord’s Church Co-operate And Work Together?”

This important seminar was held in an uncompleted auditorium without a roof top. We just had tents and were thankful it had not rained. Local church leaders from six out of the ten regions of the country attended the seminar and there were over one hundred and twenty participants. The principal speakers were: brothers Steve Ashcraft, the coordinator for [SIBS], and Ken Kesse, an elder of the church at Bomso, Kumasi, the second largest congregation in Ghana and a pioneer evangelist.

Some of the participants who attended the seminar were of the view that such an insightful forum should be organized bi-annually to not only inform the brotherhood of new teachings showing up periodically, but also to warn the brotherhood of dangers towards another apostasy.

School took a brief recess from weeks of classroom study to visit with family members and get involved in some practical work with some other congregations.

Please, continue to keep us in your thoughts and prayers.

Seth Osae-Larbi

Recent Break In Nepal Leads To Fruitful Service...

Greetings to you all in the precious name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. May the grace of God, love, and peace always be with you all.

It is good to write some words from NCBS. We participated in a five day youth camp Oct. 1-5 and fifteen days of a long vacation trip began from Oct. 10-24. I am writing a brief report from our trip. It was good and enjoyable for all. Brother Parsuram, Deepak, Surya, and three youths Roshan, Barsha, and Rajani, were with us from Kathmandu.

10th Oct. - We reached at Nagarkata, West Bengal, India and had an evening Bible study with them. Brothers Praju and Samul are the preachers of that congregation. We have four students from that area. Our students are showing good examples to them.

11th Oct. - A day Bible study at Nagarkata. Different lessons were presented by our teachers. Three souls were added into the Christ. Everybody was encouraged from class.

12th Oct. - We did worship service at two different places of our Christian community. It was so good.

13th Oct. - We traveled toward the Northern part of India called Mirik, the tea state. It is on a hillside. The climate was so cold. Brother Kanchan is leading the congregation. Three families are gathering for fellowship and worship service. They are good Christians. We received a warm welcome and shown good hospitality.

14th Oct. - We reached another congregation in a place called Sambalbung. This is in Nepal and touches the Indian border. Kanchan is leading this small congregation. We had two hours of Bible study with their family members.

15th Oct. - We returned back to Birtamod, Jhapa. We had evening Bible study at Brother Shanti's home with their family.

16th Oct. - We had a half-day Bible study at Birtamod. Christians were gathered from surrounding areas. We did our best to encourage them through word of God. Roshan, Barsha and Rajani joined with us from Kathmandu. Their college is closed for national holiday. They encouraged a lot of the youth. 

17th Oct. - We went to visit Brother Cornelius at Mangalbare. He is a preacher. We have recently constructed new Church building. We went to observe and encourage them. Brother Jerry Golphenee helped to construct the building. We are really thankful to brother Jerry. The younger brother of Bharat Rayamajhi constructed a new house.  We had a house dedication program at Surunga on that day.

18th Oct. - We traveled to Dharan. It took three hours by local bus. After reaching there we had some free time. So, we went to visit the Dharan hillside. We had an evening Bible study and fellowship meal with one of the families. They are a wonderful Christian family.

19th Oct. - We had Sunday morning worship service at Dharan. Brother Parsuram and Deepak returned back to Kathmandu after lunch. They had their family obligations. We had an evening Bible study and dinner with another family. Their love, hospitality, and fellowship are wonderful.

20th Oct. - Surya, Roshan, Barsha, Rajani and I travel to Lanbandhi, where graduated student, Ramesh Majhi, works. We stayed one night there. We had an evening Bible study with Hindu people.

21st Oct. - We went to Hetauda from Lalbandhi. It is 3 hours travel. We reached the house of Brother Arun's mother and father. They welcomed us. We had a Bible study with their family including some Hindu and denominations. Brother Ezekiel (graduated student) and Sajan (current student) joined us.

22nd Oct. - We left Hetauda and moved toward Brother Chandra's home. We went to Chitwan National Park for a two hour visit. It is on the way. We reached his home and had an evening Bible study.

23rd Oct. - There was a half-day Bible study at Kalikatar, where Brother Chandra is leading congregation. Members are increasing. There grew to 20 members within 2 years. He is doing a good work. Please kindly pray for his health. The doctor is going to do an operation soon. We held an evening visit program at our current student's home village.

24th Oct. - We returned back to Kathmandu.

What we achieved:

a) Christian fellowship, unity, cooperation and encouragement.
b) Sharing and caring for each other.
c) Tried to solve their immediate problems and needs.
d) Got some new students for the next group for class.
e) Some relaxing and refreshment.

What we need:
Building for worship service and other activities at India. It is our urgent need. If we were able to construct, it will encourage our current students.

Thank you all for your prayers and help.

Brother in Christ
Gajendra Deshar

Seven Years And Counting In Cambodia...

"The seven year itch" is what they call the time period where most marriages begin to fail. It's a time when either or both people start to decline in their feelings for each other. This phraseology doesn’t just apply to marriage, but to work as well. 

This month marks my 7th year as a missionary here in Siem Reap, Cambodia and I am hardly "itching." I love what I do more today than I ever did! I thank God for allowing me to be used in this part of the world. As I reflect on the fruit of my labors here, I can’t help but to be excited! I want to thank all of you who played a role in helping me and the ministry grow to where it is now. 

We started from scratch in 2007 and now the school is on its third graduating class! We've lost a few people along the way, but the ones that endure and remains are the ones we call family. It is this family that I am excited about. I truly believe that the church that meets at Siem Reap has grown to where she is now is because of two things. One, God gave the increase through sound Bible teachings via the International Bible Institute of Siem Reap and two, the opportunity that God provides in doing good works via Hannah's Hope Children's Home. 

It's so easy for me to report the number of baptisms, Bible studies, graduating students, and how many orphans we currently have, but numbers can be deceiving. Numbers do not give the complete picture of things. It gives an indication, but not the whole picture of what's going on. For those who've visited the work here, you know what I am talking about. 

Hopefully you see the love that we have for one another, the sacrifices that we make for each other, the forgiving mindset to work things out with each other, and many other intangible things that numbers do not reveal. We strive to live out the Bible and the teachings of Jesus Christ as laid out in the New Testament. That is what gets me excited and I can see many good things happening in the future of the church here. I look forward to sharing them with you and ask that you keep us in your prayers as we do you! Thank you once again for your love and support.

Our family of Christ enjoyed a great meal together after our hard work in building the bridge to the entrance of the church/school building.

Phanat

To see the picture of the brethren, please click here.

Congregations Get Help From Uganda School Of Evangelism Students...

Dear  brethren,

We do again thank you for the good work you are doing to make possible the Lord’s work here in Uganda grow. The Uganda School of Evangelism ended the long courses on the 25th of September and the short course teachers came on the 6th of October 2014. The alumni seminar began on the 24th of October.

One student from the Congo got information from home that his child passed away. We sent him home so that he may join his family and grieve together.

The Uganda School of Evangelism students, being members of Nandwa church of Christ through the evangelism committee of this church, are going out in the neighboring villages. The Nandwa church is also planning to use them in visiting the weak congregations every Sunday. The Nandwa church’s evangelism committee has identified the Bulukuyi church of Christ as one of the congregations to send some students. 

The Bulukuyi church of Christ has managed to purchase land of 150 ft x 150 ft. The Nandwa Church shared with them in erecting the church building. The grass which was on it was blown by the storm and they plan to put on iron sheets. They need 35 iron sheets, each costing UGX 24,000/= shillings, worth $9 dollars each. The Nandwa church of Christ is willing to support them with 10 iron sheets. Anyone willing to help with purchasing the remaining iron sheet, you can send your support to the Woodland Oaks Church of Christ in Houston. May the Lord bless you as you serve Him.

Yours

In Christ’s love
Francis and Margaret Wechesa

Students Near The End Of Their Studies...

Greetings from this end, in the name of Jesus Christ. We do hope this report finds you and the entire family doing well. We are doing our best here and the work entrusted in our hands is on good footing.

All students are doing great, as they are counting days to get into full-time ministry. Keep them in your prayers as they finalize studies, spending more time to pray and fast, and do retreats, preparing them to be vessels of honor that God will use to accomplish many things in Cameroon.

I finalized the exercise of giving out admission letters to our prospective students who will also matriculate the same day as graduation.

As I write this note, weekend evangelism is working well, as this weekend a congregation, as small as they are, who were lacking behind because their preacher left them untimely. They finally came to us, and our student, Njume Kelvin, went there and it was a day of joy for the congregation to see someone they can listen to every week. Ngousso is in Yaoundé, our capital city, and this congregation is located in the university area. This young evangelist will create lots of impact in that area. Keep this young congregation purely French community in your prayers. The gospel is for all.

One of our students, Ekelle Thiery, baptized Dieudonne Tila, a Muslim guy whose father was baptized last week. The son obeyed the gospel to become a Christian. The power of the word is doing a new thing in this family. Keep them in your prayers.

Our student, Kenechi, baptized brother Lawrence Tandi into Christ also in the Wotutu congregation. Keep this young man in your prayers as he grows to become mature in Christ.

Our other works, outside of Wotutu, continue to witness transformation and growth. The prison ministry keeps making waves in the entire prison yard, as the brethren, even in our absence, continue to share tracts and invite their friends and cell mates to come and worship with us. We can have one on one studies from the tracts. The work is going on well and we witnessed two of the brethren that were released and they are comfortable in their respective congregations in their villages. Keep this work in your prayers, it is a work for us to always show our love for the brethren there, but at times we don’t have the means to get bread for them, soap for them to wash their clothes. The major problem inside the prison yard is food, medicines, and clothing physically. Our two days a week visit to the prison is helping them spiritually. Some desire a correspondent course, like that of the WBS. This weekend, the congregation decided to put in place those who can be leaders to always see into it that every brother is doing fine in health and that they keep themselves away from the life style inside the yard.

Plans
We shall have our last campaign with the students on the 25th - 28th in Mamfe far away from Wotutu during the annual Bible lectureship. It will be mass evangelism on house to house and nurturing.

Appreciation
Many thanks to God for you and all the work you are doing for the Lord. We thank God daily on your behalf and we pray God’s blessing on you to keep you strong.

Share this report with others. As you pray for us, we also pray for you.

God bless you.

Elangwe and family
By His grace Director CBIW

Traveling To Busia, Uganda...

My trip to Busia, Uganda to teach at USOE was very successful and spiritually uplifting, for me personally. Of course, it seems that I am always the one that benefits the most when teaching these short courses and visiting with fellow Christians in east Africa.  We have students this year from Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania and the Congo, sixteen total. Seven are in the English class and nine are in the Swahili class. I taught the Book of Acts and I was blessed to have Dean Meadows from North Carolina with me who taught Christian Evidences. Dean always does an excellent job and was able to adapt the material to fit the cultural differences, not to mention the language barriers that make teaching a little more challenging for us and especially for them! These first year students, overall, seemed to be well balanced and eager to learn and ready to equip themselves to become effective and capable Gospel preachers. May we pray daily for these brethren and all of our extension schools at Bear Valley!

John and Molly the owners of the hotel (Jireh Guest House) where we stay in Busia picked me up at the airport in Entebbe when I arrived at 10:30 pm (October 5th.) and we then proceeded to drive to Kampala where Dean was already waiting for us having arrived the day before. We then made the 5 hour drive to Busia reaching there about 5:30 am Monday morning. Not resting much on the plane and being totally exhausted we spent the day resting and trying to acclimate ourselves to the time difference and the warmer climate. Of course for me it usually takes a few days, however, with Dean being younger and more energetic, he seemed to adapt much quicker. We began teaching the following day (October 7th.).

We had brought with us teaching materials, commentaries and a few books to give to the students as well as Bibles for each one. Eight of the Congolese students received French Bibles and one of them an English Bible; in addition they also have Swahili Bibles.  Of course, the English students all received English Bibles. The Swahili class is made up of 8 Congolese and 1 Tanzanian student. In the English class we have 1 Ugandan, 5 Kenyans and 1 Congolese student. All of the students did very well in their course work which included tests, writing assignments and memory work. In addition, they eagerly participated in class discussions including reading, answering and asking questions. One of the highlights for the students on the last day included a debate that was held between them and their teacher, Dean Meadows. They were divided up into 3 groups and were assigned various topics to defend such as "the existence of God," "the resurrection of Jesus" and "the Bible is inspired by God." The students began by stating the affirmative and Dean always countered with the negative. They really enjoyed the debate and it helped them in a very practical way. 

A few weeks before I was to leave on this trip I had some medical issues that I at first thought might prevent me from traveling, but thankfully I was "patched up" the week prior to leaving and as a result I was able to make the trip; although, I did take it a little easier this time around. I promised my family I would rest as much as possible and even though they did not think it wise for me to travel (nor did my doctor) they, reluctantly, gave in to my wishes (stubbornness). Dean was aware of my health issues and so he really helped out as much as possible, even trying to look out for me when he could. 

On Sunday I really enjoyed worshipping with the brethren near the school where Francis and Margaret Wechesa attend. I had the privilege of teaching the Bible class that morning as well as preaching the sermon. The singing and fellowship was great as always. Dean did the same thing, teaching and preaching near Busia as he worshipped with the church about 5 kilometers outside of town with Emmanuel and Edith Mawa. Emma is a former student and now teacher at the Uganda School of Evangelism. Emmanuel is also working on his graduate degree at the ACSP in Arusha, Tanzania.  

We left for home early Friday morning (October 17th) Dean had a 6:30 pm flight on Ethiopian Airlines and I was flying out 11:40 pm. on Delta. Leaving at 7 am that morning allowed us to make a short stop in Jinja (2nd largest city in Uganda) where the Nile river begins as it flows from its source, Lake Victoria. Since Dean had never had the opportunity to see the Nile up close we took a short 30 minute boat ride up the Nile onto Lake Victoria. The water that flows out of the Lake forming the Nile takes 3 months to make its way north as it finally empties into the Mediterranean Sea. After that it was back on the road and back on our way to the airport in Entebbe arriving there around 4 pm. Dean was able to go through the boarding process immediately while I waited another 5 hours until I could do the same. I made it into Charleston, WV around 9:30 pm Saturday night and drove home reaching there about 11:30 pm.

It was a blessing to have made that journey again and to work with the school in Uganda and to see my brothers and sisters in Christ. I am always amazed at what God can do through us as we allow Him to fulfill His purpose as we teach His word and do His will. Thanks to all of you who prayed for me and my family and who support us financially.  What a privilege it is for me to be working with Bear Valley as we partner with Woodland Oaks and Uganda School of Evangelism in saving souls in east Africa. I love working with fellow Christians who have a desire to train these preachers locally as we help fulfill the Great Commission in reaching the world for Christ. Saving souls is the greatest work there is and thanks to all of you once again for your support, encouragement and prayers!

Donnie Estep

A Difficult Time To Be In West Africa...

Last month I mentioned some of the problems that West Africa has been facing, and unfortunately things have not been getting any better. It is certainly a difficult time to be in West Africa! This past month has had an Ebola scare in Tamale, more kidnappings in Northern Nigeria, and just this past week civil disturbances in Burkina Faso that interrupted plans for a campaign in Ouagadougou. 

Our Ebola scare in Tamale was caused by a decision by the Ghanaian sports authority to move the African Cup qualifier soccer game with the Guinea national team to the Tamale Sports Stadium, which brought a couple of thousand fans from one of the countries currently dealing with the Ebola outbreak streaming into Tamale. Beefed up health checks at the borders were put in place, but how do you really check for a disease that has a 21 day incubation period? In the week after the game was finished there were a number of people who had attended the game who went to the hospital with fevers and each one had to be treated as a possible Ebola contact, causing havoc with the limited health resources available. Fortunately there were no confirmed cases and the incubation period has now passed. During this period, the school in Tamale continued to operate as normal, just with an extra caution to our students about outside contact. Eleven students successfully completed their seventh term and are left with just three more before graduation. Special thanks to Joe Wilkie from the Lone Tree, CO church for coming over for two weeks to teach 1st Corinthians to the students. This was Joe’s second trip to Ghana to teach at the school and the students have been greatly blessed by his efforts.

Northern Nigeria remains a concern for our brethren in the Upper East Region as well as for those in Northern Togo. So far, the radical Boko Haram group has not only failed to release the hundreds of school girls previously kidnapped as they promised in a brokered peace deal with the government, but they have resumed raids on Christian villages and have kidnapped another group of students in the past week. While this activity is still over 300 miles east of Ghana we watch it closely because of the Kingdom of Hope Orphan’s School’s location in the Upper East region. It has been a difficult year in the Upper East Region as the rainy season was late arriving and much less than needed for good crops, which has caused some of the children to be taken out of school in order to help their families forage for shea nuts and firewood to sell, or do whatever else is necessary to help their families survive the upcoming dry season. The school, however, is carrying on and doing what it can to assist the families in need, and the church in Kuka has stepped up to help as much as possible as well. We are just finishing up the third classroom and have begun working on bathrooms for the school, thanks to a donation from the Mesa church of Christ in Arizona. Other donations from the White Oak church of Christ allowed us to purchase 100 additional mango trees for the school, buy some play equipment for the children, and purchase desks and chairs for each of the teachers classrooms. We also added our first female teacher at KOH, Moses Cyntha, to teach our pre-school and kindergarten aged children. The grain mill that was provided last year is doing well and allowing the school to pay its teachers, pay the cost of fuel to run the lights at the school and church, and help with some of the feeding costs for the children who live at the school.

Burkina Faso has been in the news the past couple of days due to the political unrest that has resulted in demonstrations and riots across the country. I was in Ouagadougou this past weekend for a scheduled campaign when the news of a plan “strike day” to protest some government actions was announced, which caused us to cut short our activities. I left on Monday as the demonstrators began blockading the streets and was back in Ghana before the violence began, but we have a number of brothers and sisters who are caught in the middle of it all that need our prayers. Thanks to the Broadway church of Christ in Paducah, KY and the Mesa church of Christ I was able to leave the church enough money to reschedule the outdoor part of the campaign for later this year, once the situation has calmed and public gatherings are allowed, as well as for a campaign in February. We are also helping the church with door to door evangelism by providing the travel and living expenses for preachers to come from Ghana and Togo to help. While we had to get everyone out of the country early on this campaign there remains a commitment from both the church and the visiting preachers to continue the work once things stabilize. The church in Ouagadougou was also able to send one of its members to the French speaking Bible School in Cote de Ivorie thanks in part to a personal donation that I was able to deliver. Ko Ciaca left at the beginning of October to begin the three year program, the first of what we hope are many who will make the decision to become leaders and preachers in the church in Burkina.

There is still lots of work to be done, but for the next few months I will have to do my part from a distance. I will be leaving West Africa soon to return to the states and begin the process of raising support once again. I will continue working with Kingdom of Hope and with the church in Burkina Faso using e-mail, phone calls and bank transfers until such time as I can arrange to travel back personally. I am also looking forward to working closely with the Bear Valley Bible Institute Extension Schools in a new capacity next year as they work to expand their ability to train preachers and leaders in their own countries. 2015 should be an exciting year!

On a sadder note my association with the Greenbrier church of Christ as my sponsoring congregation will be ending as of December 31st of this year. I have great respect for the elders and the members at Greenbrier who have done so much to get me started in this work. I will not be seeking personal support for the immediate future, but will continue to raise support for the work at Kingdom of Hope and in Burkina Faso. For those who would like to support those works I would ask that you begin sending the funds directly to me with a note regarding what the contribution is to be used for. Correspondence and checks can be sent to the following address: Tony Johnson, 3310 Ave B, Council Bluffs, IA 51501. Quarterly updates of monies received and their distribution will be provided to those who are interested.  

It has certainly been an interesting month with many challenges and changes. I want to thank all of you who have been a part of this work in the past. Even more so I want to thank those who will continue to support this work as we move forward!

In His service,
Tony ‘Wintima’ Johnson

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

Harvest Sunday Is Helping Change The World...

Today is one of those days that encourages people all around the world. I had the privilege of participating in Levy’s Harvest Sunday. The congregation at Levy prepares all year for this amazing event. The goal this year was $305,000 and the initial collection (which is not the final) was already at nearly $302,000. Sharing in this event every year is always a blessing for me. Having the opportunity today to share a message from God’s word about the missional God we serve just added to that blessing.

The elders and mission’s committee at Levy learned the power of leadership in developing this event and encouraging the generosity of these brethren. Between last year’s Harvest Sunday and today, the congregation helped 175 individuals involved in fulfilling the mission of God in sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ around the world. There are no words to adequately describe the excitement and encouragement received from participating in this event.

Thank you Levy for all you do in the Lord’s kingdom. Thank you for believing in Bear Valley and the work of training preachers. Thank you for your dedication to see the gospel preached around the world. Thank you for allowing me to share in this special day. And, thank you God for working through such wonderful brethren to help in the kingdom work.

Students in Denver continues this week to be fully engaged in the new quarter. Their studies range from the Old Testament to Leadership to Greek. Each step prepares them for greater service in the Lord’s kingdom. Please pray for them as they work diligently to ready themselves to preach the gospel.

Around the world, the work is the same. Reports this week (see below) share news of the same nature, as students prepare themselves for greater service in the kingdom. The passion for the work grows as the information indicates the hand of God blessing the efforts of these men in preaching the gospel. Your prayers on their behalf are appreciated as they also work diligently in the classroom and the kingdom.

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 

A New Birth (Physically And Spiritually) While A Brother Passes: While several mourn the loss of a brother in Christ, they also rejoice with the birth of a child and a new brother.

The Lord Adds To The Church In Togo: God is blessing the efforts in Togo on many fronts, from giving the increase to providing a new and unexpected meeting place for the church.

Two Souls Added To The Kingdom In Nigeria: As the Lord provides the increase, the work of staff and students at the SWSE in Nigeria witnessed two precious souls obey the gospel.

Upcoming Activities In Arusha Will Leave You Encouraged With The Work: The months ahead into the new year will be busy, but the reason is encouraging, to say the least.

The Joy Of Mentoring At The Andrew Connally School Of Preaching: In his monthly report, Sean Hochdorf shares how wonderful it is to mentor some good men in Tanzania.

God Provides Opportunities To Serve The Local Community: The news is always encouraging when men recognize God-given opportunities to make a difference where they live.

An Alumni Report That Is Incredibly Impressive: During a recent Leadership Conference in Tanzania, the alumni from ACSOP shared news that will encourage you.

You Never Know What A Little Duct Tape Can Do In A Pinch: After a little brush with a pike pike, Daniel Gaines only did what he knew he could do to patch the vehicle.

Final Thoughts 
A big thank you to each of you for the incredible sacrifice you make to provide what is needed in the work of training preachers. We love and appreciate you for the blessing you are to us. The opportunity afforded us to work in Denver and around the world in training men to preach is exciting. We look forward to a great future partnering together in changing the world.

God bless
Bob

Two Souls Added To The Kingdom In Nigeria...

Beloved in Christ,

Happy Lord's day to you all from Southwest School of Evangelism, Ibadan and your fellow brethren in Nigeria.

We were all at the burial of the mother of brother Ayodele Waleola on Friday. On Saturday, I led the few SWSE students that are doing their vocational training in Ibadan to house to house evangelism at Aronfolu, Jenriyin, and Olukotun villages of the Lagelu local government. My friend and co-instructor at SWSE IBADAN campus, brother Kayode Solomon Eniafe led the students under his custody to house to house evangelism at Egbeda and Olukeye towns in the Egbeda local government of Oyo state.

As God will have it, one of our Saturday prospects named Matthew Enoch was baptized at the Onikokoro River after this morning’s service, while brother Kayode Solomon Eniafe also reported a conversion this evening at the Egbeda congregation.  

I taught this morning on “Jesus Christ, Our Friend Forever” at the Onikokoro / Gbongudu congregation, Ibadan, Oyo State, while one of the present year 1 students admonished the church from Genesis 3:1-7.

Brethren, we are very proud of you all for being our partner in the Lord's business and we keep on praying for you and all your associates daily, so that we shall all meet in heaven with our Master, Jesus the Christ.

Thanks for your love, concern, and contribution to the growth of the Lord 's kingdom on earth. Be blessed forever.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

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

You Never Know What A Little Pink Duct Tape Can Do In A Pinch...

If you've ever been to Arusha, then you know that one of the biggest hazards that we face is simply traffic. Motorcycles (they call them piki pikis here) swarm around, in, and out of traffic like swarms of bees. They mostly drive on the center and side lines of the road, but can swerve across the lane with no warning. Yesterday, we fell victim to just such a maneuver. A piki piki swerved right into us, knocking off the rear quarter panel of our vehicle. Apparently, not seriously injured (thankfully!) the piki piki driver quickly disappeared.  

So what could we do? It just so happened that we had some duct tape with us, but... it was my daughter's PINK duct tape. Urgh. How unmanly can you get? Oh well, sometimes you just have to do what you have to do. So, we taped it back on and went on about our day. 

The school year is moving right along. These men are just a few weeks away from graduation, but first they must conquer my class on Revelation. It is proving to be a rich and rewarding study. I hope they are benefiting from it as much as I am.

Would You Like a Visit?
We do have a few slots left in our schedule for our upcoming visit to the U.S. If you would like me to come by and visit with your congregation, then contact me and we will work it out. 

Daniel Gaines

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

An Alumni Report That Is Incredibly Impressive...

This years Tanzania leadership conference (TLC) was very successful. We thank God for the numerous speakers that came from throughout East Africa to deliver great lessons from the book of Nehemiah. In addition to the large crowd and great speakers we were privileged to have 34 ACSOP Alumni present this year. We were very grateful to have our brethren from Kenya and Uganda in attendance. They brought great encouragement to those of us who live and preach in Tanzania.TLC was a great opportunity for brethren to be edified and enjoy a level of fellowship that is only available at this type of gathering.

During the conference the Alumni met for dinner. Cy Stafford, Daniel Gaines and other faculty members presented lessons to encourage the alumni to work together to build the kingdom of God in East Africa and beyond. The first and second year students had the privilege of serving their predecessors the meal. 

One reason for our alumni meeting was to take a survey to try and gather some information about the growth of the kingdom in their respective areas. We had 20 surveys turned in and the results were encouraging.

1.    24 congregations were planted that accounted for a membership of over 1035 members over the past four years.

2.    Approximately 204 new souls were added to the kingdom this year through gospel meetings and seminars.

The biggest challenge for many of the graduates is a place to worship. Many are renting space or worshipping in school buildings. While we understand that a building doesn’t define who we are, in Africa, a building is a sign of legitimacy to our fellow Africans.

We thank God for a successful leadership conference, our faithful brethren who are preaching throughout East Africa, and for you, our dedicated supporters.

In Him,

Godfrey Mngoma
Dean of Students, Andrew Connally School of Preaching
A Bear Valley Bible Institute of Denver extension school
Arusha, Tanzania

God Provides Opportunities To Serve In The Local Community...

It is my prayer and hope that this report will find you well and active in the kingdom of the Lord. In Ephesians 5:16 Paul reminds us of three important things: that we are living in evil days, that time is running out, and that we must make the most of the time God has given us.

I mention these three things because they are just as relevant to us today as they were to our brethren in Ephesus. Think of how many opportunities we get per hour, per day, per week, per month or per year to serve the Lord. In our communities there are so many opportunities provided for us to reach the lost with the message of salvation.

I am grateful God has provided these opportunities. I, and the good brethren I work with, have seen the results of the seed sown to those in our colleges and schools who have studied with us via correspondence courses. For several years we have been fortunate to watch many people obey the gospel. Indeed the harvest truly is plenteous (John 4:5). May we always take advantage of our opportunities and remain steadfast in our efforts to take the gospel to the lost (1 Cor. 15:58).

In Christ Jesus,

Michael Lesotwa
ACSOP, Dean of Academics