More Than 20 Obey The Gospel In Uganda...

Dear  brethren,

We do thank you very much for the wonderful work you are doing in supporting God’s work here in Uganda, especially in Busia and Namayingo Districts of Uganda. The churches of Christ in East Africa are being blessed through your support. The gospel is reaching many people through the students who have passed through the Uganda School of Evangelism. In 2013, many churches of Christ in East Africa, together with several  members of the Nandwa church of Christ, including our students, gathered in Nyahururu for the East Africa Gospel meeting. During that time, one man from Ndathi, which is on the slopes Mt. Kenya, who was invited by some members of the Dhathi church of Christ, was baptized. This church was planted by brothers Simon Thuku and Joseph Warui one year before the East Africa gospel meeting. When this man went back home he did what the Samaritan woman did after meeting with Jesus at the well. After this man’s announcement to his neighbors many people were ready to become members of the church which Jesus died for. Brothers Thuku and Warui were called to go tell the  people of Dhathi, in detail, what the man had been telling them. When they went, 20 people were baptized. That man remained there as the person who could read the Bible to that group, but unfortunately this man went to his maker last month. That group is now in need of someone who can help them for at least two years. They are planning to send one man to school this year. We cannot know what other people are doing, as this is being done on an individual basis and we do not get reports from them officially, but from what we hear  happening in different places, tells us that your support is reaching many souls. This quarter in our long course we are teaching I & II Kings, Chronicles, Romans and Galatians, I & II Corinthians, English Grammar III, and Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther. Our short course will start on the 23rd of March 2015. The ladies class is scheduled to begin on the 6th of April 2015, for one week.

The Nandwa Church of Christ sent two of our students to work with the Junge church of Christ whose preacher left the church and joined a denomination. Nandwa also sent one of our graduates to the Bulukuyi church of Christ. On the 12th of March 2015, churches of Christ in Busia and the Namayingo Districts are starting a gospel campaign in Bulukuyi. Pray for this meeting. Bulukuyi, as the host church, does not have a latrine on their plot, they have been using the neighbors. They want to build one before the campaign starts. The grass on their building was also blown off. They need funds to have some grass on their roof. Grass houses are becoming expensive, as grass is becoming scarce because most land is used for cultivation.

The Nandwa brethren helped Bulukuyi congregation to erect their structure. This is very temporary. They need a more permanent structure built by bricks and cement with an iron sheet and timber roof. The Nandwa brethren and Bulukuyi can work together to make bricks. We need about $5,000 dollars to complete such a building. We would appreciate it if there would be a church or an individual who can support Bulukuyi in getting such a building.

Agriculture Projects:     
Our fish ponds did not do well this year. The flood which came last year in May came and washed away all the fish we had stocked in our ponds. The few fish which remained were eaten by some predators. When the water was drying up, we were forced to remove whatever was left in the ponds. The area is now dry and we are now planning to fence the whole area to avoid some predators. 

These are the only fish we have, but we would have harvested more than these. We have known where the mistake was and this time we expect more harvest, as we will also stock more fish.

We are completing the second pond of 40m x 20m at a cost of UGX 1,538,461/= $550 dollars. We need to finish this pond and repair other ponds before the rains starts. The repair will cost us UGX 540,000/= $200 dollars. We plan to stock 2 ponds sized 20m  x 40m and 2 ponds sized 10m x 22m, with a total of 4080 fish. These will be 400 fingerlings of cat fish and 3,672 tilapia fingerlings. Each fingerling will cost us UGX 250/=  which will total to UGX 1,020,000/= $364 dollars.

Brothers Douglas Fair, Ebenezer Udofia and Chris Gingles from Healing Hands International visited the school on the 24th of February 2015. After seeing our needs they  asked us to write a proposal for the completion of the pig house and a chicken house. I will soon give them our needs. 

We lost our two bee hives by fire. From here we managed to save three, which we moved to another site. Likely enough I had purchased bee gadgets, which I put on and ran with water to save those two hives and we later transferred them to another site.

We are now clearing the new site to avoid fire.

Yours In Christ
Francis and Margaret Wechesa

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

Praying For Sean And Anita Hochdorf...

Dearest brethren, 

Anita and I hope this short report finds you in good health, enjoying the freedom you have in Christ and showing gratitude to our Father for the salvation He has given us through His Son.

As you are aware, we needed to return stateside to receive medical care and we wanted to update you concerning this matter. On Thursday, Anita will be going in for a nerve ablation. She has suffered severe pain in her back for a number of years and this is another attempt at trying to get her some relief. The ablation is a procedure where the surgeon burns the nerve that they think is responsible for sending the pain signals to the brain. By burning the nerve it is hoped that the pain signal can be interrupted and provide relief. If all goes as planned it should provide pain relief for a couple of years. Please pray for Anita and the procedure that it can provide the pain relief for which she is so desperately hoping.

The main reason we returned was because of the pain I was suffering in my neck and shoulder due to an injury from late last year. With numbness being constant in my right arm and the right side of my face our doctor made it clear that I needed surgery. We met with the surgeon recently and he agreed that surgery is the only solution to the problem. He has informed me that there are two options to remedy the issue. Both options require removing the damaged vertebrae from my neck and either replacing it with a synthetic disc or fusing the two discs that are on either side of the damaged disc. Both options require entering through the throat, moving the larynx and the carotid artery out of the way to have clear access to the disc. Obviously there are some possible dangers and I would ask that you pray there will be no complications. 

The great news is that the surgeon has offered to provide his service at no charge - what a tremendous blessing! Our biggest difficulty at this point is making the financial arrangements with the hospital. There is a discount for “cash” customers but the remaining amount is so much that we are trying to investigate all of our options. Once we are able to satisfy the financial aspect we can schedule the surgery, which brings us to our next matter…

…When we flew back from Tanzania we anticipated some of the obstacles we are now facing. Some things are better than we expected others are worse. The long and short of it, however, is that we don’t know how long it will be before I can have the surgery. Once I do have the surgery, the recovery period is fairly lengthy. We have been advised that returning to Tanzania anytime in the near future wouldn’t be the wisest thing to do considering the serious nature of the surgery. So, as much as it breaks our hearts, we won’t be returning to live in Tanzania. We completed our commitment and were planning on extending our work in Tanzania but this, however, has thwarted our extension plans.

Here is what we would like to request of you. We understand that support is a big sacrifice on your part and that you want your funds to go toward the furtherance of the kingdom. We too have this same desire and we hope that you will continue supporting good works. However, this injury has unexpectedly interrupted our life as missionaries and we have some serious adjustments to make. If you would be so kind as to support us for 6 more months we would be very grateful. This, hopefully, prayerfully, will allow us enough time to get through the surgery and determine how we will go forward with our lives. We don’t know how we will accomplish it as of yet, but we will need to have our personal items shipped back stateside sometime in the future. We love the Lord and we want to serve Him; hoping for an opportunity to teach full-time or preach for a strong, active, mission minded, congregation. As you can imagine, this has, almost overnight, upset our future plans and we are quite discouraged because of it.

We will keep you posted as we clear each hurdle but I close this report by again expressing how very thankful we are for each of you. You have been faithful in making sure that we have been well taken care of, that our every need has been met and that you trusted us with the work of reaching the lost with the gospel in a foreign land. While I know it sounds cliche - there really are no words that can adequately express how deeply grateful we feel toward each of you.

Until next time, take care and God bless.

Yours in Christ,
Sean & Anita Hochdorf

Kisongo Congregation Working Through A Bible School...

“And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to tech others also” 2 Timothy 2:2. In fact, every faithful Christian is trying to accomplish this verse. This idea clicked with the Kisongo Church three years ago when we started a Bible school. This school is for two hours a day, Monday to Friday from 4-6 pm. The idea was proposed to educate Christians in the church due to the lack of Bible knowledge of too many members. It also should be used as an evangelistic tool in the church. Among 15 students who started the school on November 2014, five of them graduated. Eight of the students were not Christians, but after a few months, the whole class was faithful Christians, although many of them could not graduate because of up and downs. Now, the graduates are potential to the church. Moreover, in February of this year, we enrolled eight new students and one has already been baptized last week. Please, as you continue to read this short report, remember your prayers are very important to accomplish this mission.  

Likewise, the Kisongo church is preparing itself for the Spiritual Discipline seminar which will start on April 5th by brother Daniel Gaines. Last Sunday, three preachers were on duty, brother Maurice Gasper was at Ilkiurei, Daniel Gaines at MtowaMbu, and Isaac Kusupa at Arusha town Church. The seminar is now in the third step by moving to the third congregation. Another thing you need to know is that every preacher has his Timothy to train, knowing that one day he will be able to teach others as well. This is summing up the idea of committing the gospel to the faithful men as Paul commanded to Timothy. Moreover, while I was teaching at the Arusha church on February 22, I noted that members were inviting nonChristians. The preacher of that congregation invited two girls who were studying together for a longtime, and as a result both of them were baptized. This seminar will take the church to the next level and this would not be successful if we did not have a  great missionary team led by brother Cy. Please remember your prayers will have a great effect in this. 

Thank you all for your prayers and donations. We are in prayer, too, that things may be well with you.

In His Work

AhimidiweKimaro
Assistant Director, Andrew Connally School of Preaching
A Bear Valley Bible Institute International extension school
Arusha, Tanzania

Co-Workers In Tanzania Glorify God To The Saving Of The Lost...

Greetings Fellow Servants,

We greet you with hearts of thanksgiving and joy, knowing our God is able and will always bless His people in the best possible way. He continues to bless your efforts in Tanzania in mighty ways. Your prayers continue to be answered in amazing ways to the saving of countless souls. Thank you! 

My travels have been good, reporting on the good being done in East Africa through your prayers, support and through the great team of workers in the good land of Tanzania. I have been blessed to present the work to our church family at Madison and North Brandon in the Jackson, MS area. I also had several one-on-one meetings with supporters and others as we plan for the future of God’s work. If the Lord wills, I will be with our good church family at Longview, TX and Sunday evening with the church at Seagoville, TX. Wednesday evening I will be with our brothers and sisters at Keller, TX. What a joy it is to partner with so many of God’s faithful.

Good News from afar: 

Fariji Paul: “I would like to inform you about the work of God here in Usa River. This month of February I have studied with 15 students, two places where I have been teaching are Jua Kali and Mji Mwema in Usa River. One soul, named Zawadi, obeyed Christ ( baptized).”

Ahimidiwe Kimaro: “And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to tech others also” 2 Timothy 2:2. In fact, every faithful Christian is trying to accomplish this verse.This idea clicked to the Kisongo Church three years ago when we started  a Bible school. This school is for two hours a day, from Monday to Friday at 4-6 PM. The idea was proposed to educate Christians in the church due to the lack of Bible knowledge of too many members. It also should be used as an evangelistic tool in the church. Among 15 students who stated the school on November 2014, five of them graduated. Eight of the students were not Christians, but after a few months the whole class was faithful Christians, although many of them they could not graduate because of up and downs. Now the graduates are potential to the church. Moreover in February of this year, we enrolled eight new students, and one as already been baptized last week.”

Yes, the team of co-workers in Tanzania and throughout East Africa are doing their part in the glorifying of God and to the saving of the lost. They thank you, I thank you, and God thanks you for doing your part in Kingdom work. 

Our prayer is that our God will bless you in all the right ways and to the saving of those you know and that you can influence for good. 

In Him,
Cy, Stephanie & Granny

Preparing For Outreach Around The World...

The current quarter of studies in Denver is nearly completed and students are preparing for their campaigns. Please pray for these men as they travel to various places to share the gospel with others. The opportunity to reach the lost is one component of this effort, but it is also a time to help encourage and strengthen good brethren who desire to see the church grow where they live. The time is always fruitful for everyone involved.

Various reports from extension locations also shares news of outreach from the students who go each weekend for evangelism. Observing the work done by these men encourages brethren in their respective locations, but also all of us. Reading about souls who were added to the kingdom, fallen brethren restored, churches strengthened, and new congregations planted all point to the power of the gospel that is proclaimed.

Moving forward into a new month only gives us hope of more great work for the Lord. March holds several activities scheduled within the extension program. We will share more information as the weeks unfold, but please pray for the development of each location and the safety of all who travel to and from these activities. We all know the power of prayer and God continues to answer by giving the increase, just as He promised.

Now on to this week’s incredible reports...

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

The latest report from Howell Ferguson can be read here.

The latest report from Steven Ashcraft can be read here.

Extension Reports 

Nigeria Plants, Cameroon Waters, God Gives The Increase - And Then There Was Koba - God Is Good All The Time: You just need to read this incredible story to get the whole picture.

Students Eager To Learn, Grow, And Serve The Kingdom: Activities for the students in Chimala, Tanzania demonstrate their eagerness to be involved in kingdom work.

High Anticipation To Complete Year Two In Ghana: After a short break, students at the Southern Institute of Biblical Studies returned to class ready to complete their studies.

Preparing Men And Living The Gospel Of Jesus To The Glory Of God: The mission of ACSOP in Arusha, Tanzania has students laboring to promote the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Spiritual Disciplines Seminar Growing The Church In Tanzania: Plans to help local congregations recently began their weekly seminar on “Spiritual Disciplines” with great success.

Final Thoughts 
We close with a word of appreciation. Thank you for the time you take to read through the reports and pray about this work. Thank you for your involvement in this program and the encouragement you provide everyone who is involved. Thank you for your generosity. God has blessed this work through each of you. Thank you.

God bless
Bob

Nigeria Plants, Cameroon Waters, God Gives the Increase -- and then there is Koba -- God is Good All the Time

Dearest in Christ,

           Greetings to you! It is by His grace that we have entered into a new month. We do hope you are doing great.

       We give thanks to God that the examination week has finished well. Tomorrow our students start short courses on “The Godhead” and “The Cost of Discipleship.”.Keep our programs in your prayers.

       As the students were busy writing their exams under the instructors, I decided to include my wife in my mission trip to touch some congregations along my village area. She received a first-hand taste of what it takes to do evangelism in rural areas. Here we are a crossing river as we trek our way to the villages..

       You can see my wife trekking into the forest to meet with congregations. She has a lot of stories to tell about mission work. I wish that everyone could have this great experience.

     We had a stop in the Koba congregation, where one of our graduate is serving as a full time evangelist. You can see him mingling with the group.

      This is Koba congregation. Their testimonies concerning their preacher was awesome. They have never had a preacher since the establishment of the congregation, but now they can witness growth and development. Brother Enow Elvis met the congregation after we revived it to 35 members by our BETA batch students every weekend. For two months now, the congregation has grown. Today we worship with 56 members.

      We enjoyed the opportunity to worship with them. For my wife, it was the first time. I was given the opportunity to exhort the congregation.

      This is a family picture in Koba congregation.

    This is the Koba building from a distance. It has gone from a leaky thatch roof with no walls to keep our blowing rain to the one you see now. praise God from whom all blessing flow.

This is a slide-show of the Koba facility, before, during, and after. Thanks for your support and prayers. To God be the glory.
 

     In CBIW, we have the habit and the passion of helping someone who can read,  to see and read God’s words himself.  This is brother Mote Daniel seeing the words of God as they are written in the Bible. He has known about the church of Christ since 1959 in Ibadan Nigeria where he was living and working there. While he was working as an administrator in the Ibadan University , he came in contact with the church of Christ there, through Bible correspondence courses. He started worshiping but dropped out because of his busy daily schedule. When he dropped off, he did not continue the study. He move to Wotutu last month and his residence is directly opposite the Brightland Christian Academy. He will always come outside his house to listen to the vocal music of the kids of Brightland and to the messages that brother Nsong Nelson preaches and teaches to the kids each day. He invited brother Nsong to visit during lunch break and asked him, “Why is the school a Christian school.” It was explained to him and he decided to come and worship with the church to see how they are doing things .He recalled lots of tracts that he read about the New Testament Church, as he explained to me in my office about himself. He is retired now and he is 85 years old. God brought him closer to His people here in Wotutu. Praise God!

      After his baptism, brother Mote Daniel said,” Oh God I thank you that you are still alive and you allow me to see the truth in this age.” He lives with his grand children whom we have started studies with also.

      I am sharing these pictures about the trip with my wife.

      Mission trips exposes you to different cultures which is a bondage to many. This young lady delivered twins and the local tribal culture demands that she needs to be like this for the next 8 months fulfill  a lot of things, or else she will lose her kids.

      I went on the trip with candy.  As we gave candy to the kids, we told them, “That is how the word of God is sweet and can make them live a happy live.” We sang with them. It was fun to see children but they are children of age and no one has send them to school. The reason is that their parents are poor. This is no health care for any  health center in the entire community of Mbiaka village, which  is in upper Bakundu.

    Chiefs were opportune to hear a message they had never heard. It was the truth about Christ and His church. I addressed king makers in that community, as they raised the Cameroon flag as a sign of honor to the state, because we were inside the palace. The gospel is for all!  I lament about the vastness of the field in comparison to the very few laborers who can go and rescue souls from eternal damnation before the end time comes .Keep praying for us.

      You can see how many are still in the primitive stage, as they still live in houses like the one behind us. The village is isolated and difficult to access. You need good shoes to go up and down the rocky areas and thick forest. Our God was with my wife and me on our journey until were back home safe and sound although with many pains from the hard trekking. Keep us in your prayers. Maybe she will never accept to following me for such a long and tiring trip as this one again.

     PLANS

       We are already into  March and our Lebialem for Christ program is coming closer. Thanks to those who have made it possible. Please keep this program in your prayers.

    APPRECIATIONS

      Thank you for all that you are doing to sustain this work. God alone will continue to bless you and reward you. Glory to His name!

     Elangwe and family

    By His grace Director CBIW

EVANGELISM IS OUR MISSION AND OUR MISSION IS EVANGELISM.2TIM2:2 2TIM4:2

Students Eager To Learn, Grow, And Serve The Kingdom...

On January 26th we had our first chapel at 7:30 am to start the new year of the Bear Valley Bible Institute Tanzania-Chimala school. We were joined by our new mission administrator Howell Ferguson, Jim Gregg, elder in charge of the mission and Bill Stenson, stateside administrator from the New York Avenue Church of Christ. All spoke in chapel, greeting the students and encouraging them in there work. The singing was beautiful and heartfelt and the chapel service speaker reminded the students of the great responsibility and privilege to be in school to learn the word of God. 

The new Swahili and English students were eager to begin their new journey in preparing to serve the church, the kingdom of God in Tanzania, Malawi and the Congo. We prepared with the faculty the week before we got to know some of the new students. Mkoko, had been a primary school teacher, while Msoshi had been a businessman in the Congo before leaving for his safety to escape the war. Mikael, Asher, Evarist and Fredrich had been a builder, farmer, fisherman, carpenter, and truck diver respectively. Other students had been a secondary teacher, grower of coffee (which I appreciated), government business chairman and tailor. So, why are Isaka, Zwanadi, Day, Bahait, Dereck Juma and Kevin, Alphonce, Webster and Damson at Chimala? To learn to preach the gospel, to better prepare themselves to serve the Lord. They have come to study in an intensive program for two years, provided by all the Bear Valley Bible Institute schools as to strengthen the church in East Africa. They left their jobs, families,friends and some even their countries to be able to be of greater service to the kingdom. Please keep these dedicated Christians and their teachers in mind as they work for the growth and strength of the church.

Garry L. Hill
Bear Valley Bible Institute
Tanzania-Chimala

High Anticipation To Complete Year Two In Ghana...

All eleven students reported back to school. They were full of high anticipation to complete the second year successfully and to be better prepared for the mission ahead of them.

Preparedness for 2015
Complementing that high level of students’ aspiration, the administration had already prepared all course materials for both students and teachers ahead of time prior to the re-open. This facilitated both teaching and learning. The purchase of a copier machine has been a great asset.  

To get us more equipped, brother Stephen Ashcraft also donated a slightly used laptop computer to the school, which would be very useful.

Student’s weekend campaigns to nearby sister congregations, also serving as part of their training, continued. Our students are divided into four groups to work with four nearby congregations in the school area. Information reaching us indicates that the smaller congregations are especially reciprocally experiencing the impact of our students participating in their programs.

Challenges
Two main challenges facing the school are: the problem of water and electricity. The hand-dug water-well for the school dries up around this time of the year, and we have to re-dig down a little further deep. Although this was done, and water started coming, it dried up in a short while. We are told we need to dig still further down till we get to the water table below. However, we are also told as soon as the rains start coming, the well will naturally be filled up.

The other challenge which also is a national issue, is the problem of electricity supply.  The current power supply, which of late is the talk of the town, leaves much to be desired.  The power is very unstable, and sometimes we must go a day or more without electricity.  However, we are thankful, we can rely on the school’s generator for the students’ studies at night and other power needs. This makes the situation quite manageable.

Although some brethren are still expressing misgivings about the establishment of our school, some reasons include its proximity to an already existing Bible school here, we are always praying that the focus of [SIBS] would be made so manifest that the eyes of these brethren would be opened to the need for more labors, and for the defense of the truth of the gospel.

Trip To The Upper West
Part of the teachers and students’ team who made the feasibility trip to the Upper West resumed plans for a follow-up trip this year.  

Please, keep us continually in your thoughts and prayers. 

Seth Osae-Larbi

Preparing Men And Living The Gospel Of Jesus To The Glory Of God...

“Go therefore and make disciple of all nations…”Mathew 28:19 (NASB).

Today I would like to share with you two pieces of news. Let me begin with the good news. It is always joyful to see people who are ready to work for the Lord in His vineyard. Beginning this week, we are going to see our students working with the area congregations in an evangelism outreach ministry. Last week, the Director of ACSOP (Daniel Gaines) called a short meeting with all the preachers and introduced this idea, and asked them to use the students to evangelize in their local congregations. All the preachers were excited and very happy to hear about the program. This win-win program will also be helpful to our students in their academic report. About 28 students of first and second year are going to participate in this evangelism program. They will be sent out and work with 13 congregations. This idea goes along with the mission of the school “to prepare men and live the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the glory of God.” I hope you will put these men into your daily prayers as they seek to save the lost souls and help to grow these congregations.

On a sad note, two of our students did not come back to school this semester: Kevin Myombe, who went back to his secular education, and Yona Baraza. We need also to continue praying for our brother, Yona. He was not able to come back to school due to mental health problems caused by the late treatment of malaria. This brother was one of our best students in the school.

Thank you again for your support and prayers as we all continue working for Him and the Kingdom.

In Him,

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

Spiritual Disciplines Seminar Growing The Church In Tanzania...

This year we are experimenting with a rotating seminar on Spiritual Disciplines. Here's how it works. I have the introductory lesson explaining the concept of how spiritual disciplines work to cause growth in the Christian. On the first Sunday of each month, I'll present this lesson at a different congregation. Then over the next 12 weeks preachers from other area congregations will come and present lessons on specific disciplines. In this manner, the same series will be presented to 13 different congregations in a span of a little more than a year. I'm excited about the concept, and I think it will be a blessing to the churches here.

Today we had the pleasure of visiting the Mtu wa Mbu ("Mosquito River") church. This congregation is a pretty far distance from the house, so we left early in the morning prepared for a long day. However, this congregation is always so welcoming that we also felt sure that it would be a good day.

Gasper Julius and his wife Selena did not disappoint. Gasper, the preacher there, greeted us warmly and made us feel right at home. This is a rural church so the environment is different from most of the churches that we get to work with. We enjoyed the change of pace.

As she has learned to anticipate, Tiffany was asked if she would be willing to teach the children's class. She gladly obliged and put her skills to work. It's not alway easy though. In the middle of class, Levi (our 2 year old) sees a mongoose outside. So naturally he runs out the door to investigate. In the midst of his hot pursuit, Levi falls and skins his hand. This brings about great weeping, wailing, and general gnashing of teeth. But never fear, big sister swoops to the rescue and Mom continues class.

Meanwhile, I am teaching the adult class, then preaching the morning sermon. Mtu wa Mbu is out in Maasai country, and they have several members who do not speak or understand Swahili. Therefore, everything that I said had to be translated twice - once into Swahili, and once into Kimasaai. The lessons were well received, and one young lady decided to be baptized.

As I just mentioned, a girl was going to put on her Lord in baptism. That's the good news. The bad news is that the baptistry would have to be filled by hand via a water bucket brigade. This took about an hour, so we had some time to kill.

The kids played. Levi spent time with his new BFF, Daniel (great name, don't you think?). They couldn't talk to each other but they played hand and hand all over the grounds. Ah the sweet innocence of children. 

Speaking of children, Tiffany was surrounded by them as usual. She's always had a magic touch with kids. Our kids are very lucky to such a great mom. 

At last, there is enough water in the baptistry. We rejoice with the angels of heaven as Sophia is added to the body of Christ!

Then the preacher's wife, Selena, feeds us a quick, delicious lunch. Satisfied, we head off on our way merrily. Mtu wa Mbu happens to be practically next door to the Lake Manyara National Park. We haven't been there since we moved to Tanzania, so we decided that we might as well take an afternoon drive through the park.  

 Mtu wa Mbu is the home of the famous red bananas, so we grab some for a snack while we drive.

The park offered some nice scenery, and baby monkeys are adorable.  

After stopping for a snack at the picnic area, we had some car trouble. It just wouldn't start. That's not what you want to happen while hanging out in a park where lions live. A worker suggests that we try to push-start it. What do we have to lose? So we push the truck down a hill while trying to start it. Yeah, that didn't work. So we flag down a passing safari truck and ask for a jump. No luck.

By this point, I'm ready to scream. 

Then I remember something. Earlier in the day, one of my children (who shall remain nameless, but she knows who she is) broke the truck key. There is a security chip in the fob portion of the key that prevents the car from starting without it being near the ignition. So I just had to hold the remote in my hand while turning the small portion. It cranked right up, and we're on our way.

The drive continues without further problems and we have a pleasant afternoon. On the way out of the park, Abby notices a guy randomly dancing on the side of the road without any music. Of course, we crack up at the sight. Luckily, a camera was handy so we recorded the action. I've shared it with you below. Just for fun, I added a little sound track for you. You're welcome.

After a long drive home, it is time to eat a snacky supper, and unwind while we watch an Andy Griffith DVD. That's a great ending to a great day. The day required a good bit of patience, but we were rewarded with some wonderful experiences. I hope that your Sunday is a great one as well!

Daniel Gaines

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

Fervently Preparing For Greater Expansion...

Last week, the staff from the extension program at Bear Valley came together to discuss various matters related to the current issues within the program and the challenges before us in the development of our plan to expand. We spent a day and a half together discussing these areas and discovered answers to various concerns enabling us to determine how we can move forward in the expansion of the work. We appreciate and covet your prayers for wisdom in making the right decisions for the furtherance of training preachers.

Students in Denver are nearing the end of their quarter of studies. For a few of these men, it is the end of their first quarter of studies at the Bible Institute. For seniors in the program, they are nearing their final quarter of studies before entering into full-time ministry. Campaigns will commence in a few weeks taking men from Colorado to Georgia to Grand Cayman. Please pray for open and receptive hearts to the word they share.

While snow is blanketing Denver, after a major winter storm, around the world men are fervently studying to prepare themselves for greater evangelistic outreach where they live. The reports this week share information about the fruit born as a result of the gospel preached. How exciting it is to read about the efforts put forth by these men and see how God is giving the increase. We also ask you to pray for these men as they share the gospel.

Plans are only plans until they are implemented by those who make them. Our plans for expansion, plans for outreach by students in each location, and plans for strengthening the global church can only achieve success by the diligent effort of everyone involved to take the plans and put them into practice. This is when we find the successful development of God’s plan.

Now on to this week’s incredible 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 

The Spirit Of Evangelism Is Growing In Cameroon: Reading the report out of Cameroon demonstrates the power of evangelism and plans for a combined effort from all three classes.

The Work Continues To Be Fruitful In Nigeria: The news encourages everyone as souls are added to the kingdom as a result of the outreach from staff and students at SWSE.

Workshop Helps Develop Strong Leadership For The Church In Ghana: Plans for training stronger leaders in the northern section of Ghana will make a difference in the Lord’s kingdom.

God Supplies Through His Faithful Sons, You And I: The staff report from Arusha, Tanzania shares the powerful way God works through His faithful children to achieve His work.

Planning To Assist Local Evangelism In Arusha, Tanzania: Students from the Andrew Connally School of Preaching are cooperating with local congregations to evangelize the area.

Final Thoughts 
Thank you for your dedication to read the reports each week and your involvement in supporting this work. We love sharing the news each week about the growth of the program. Reading through the reports and learning how God is blessing the efforts of everyone involved in extension training is exciting. We thank you for making it all possible. To God be the glory.

God bless
Bob

Planning To Assist Local Evangelism In Arusha, Tanzania...

We had a meeting yesterday with representatives of 11 area congregations to discuss a new outreach initiative that we want to implement at the Andrew Connally School of Preaching. We offered to designate pairs of students to each of these churches to assist in evangelism and to be used in their worship services. A little of this was done in the past, but not in a well-organized manner. It is time to take this idea to its full extent.

This will be a very mutually beneficial program. The churches, mostly pretty small, can use the extra man-power. The students will gain hands-on experience in church work, giving them the opportunity to apply the theories they've learned during their studies. 

The churches and the school will be sharing the expense of the program. One will pay the students' transportation, and the other will be responsible for their food. Working together in this way will also strengthen the bond between ACSOP and the area congregations.

The idea was well received by those in the meeting, and I am optimistic that there will be great participation. Hopefully, the program will be in full swing within a week or two.

Thanks for your continued prayers and support!

Daniel Gaines

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

God Supplies Through His Faithful Sons, You And I...

It’s my hope that things are going well with each one of us, and that we are all working hard in the kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ. I hope that the gospel is being preached and taught by the faithful servants in other parts of the world. This is only possible because of the ability that our God supplies through His faithful sons, that is you and I. 

At ACSOP we can see things going well. We started our first quarter since February 9, 2015. We enrolled 13 more students for the first year; these are the men from Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda. We started teaching them the book of Genesis, taught by Godfrey Mngoma, “How We Got the Bible” taught by Daniel Gaines. I am teaching “Biblical Interpretation: Introduction to Hermeneutics.” “Writing Skills” is being taught by Charles Hebert, and “Spiritual Disciplines” is being taught by Desdery Massawe. 

My fellow teachers and I are working hard to mold and strengthen these fellows by imparting to them skills in the word of God. The 15 second-year students are in the first quarter of their last year of being in ACSOP for studies. They are expecting to graduate on November 28 of this year. We really appreciate this great effort which is being undertaken here in this other part of the world because of your prayers, and your great financial support that you gave to make these things happen. May our God of our Lord Jesus Christ supply all your needs as you do to us. Amen. 

Your servant in Christ Jesus,

Losotwa Michael
Dean of Academics
Andrew Connally School of Preaching 
A Bear Valley Bible Institute International extension school
Arusha, TZ

Workshop Helps Develop Strong Leadership For The Church In Ghana...

I present warm greetings from Tamale, Ghana. 

Going through the Harmattan season, with daily temperatures ranging between 30 degrees and 35 degrees Celsius, we are joyfully going through the studies as per the curriculum.

For this quarter, which by the grace of God ends on Friday, we are studying the follow:

Topic                                          Instructor

Christian Morals        Baah Joseph Okyere

I & 2 Timothy                     Daniel Agyei- Mensah

Old Testament 8                    Ndakar Jaminja

Christian Evidences               Steven Ashcraft

Gospel of John                       Baah Joseph Okyere

Campaign                               Jacob Agyei  Yeboah

Staff and students of Tamale wish to express our sincere thanks to our sponsors. By your support, Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies is to graduate the third batch of students, hopefully in the month of July, 2015.

These men, after graduation, will help some of the congregations which currently have no preachers. We appreciate all that God, through you, has established here for the general growth of the church.

I wish to introduce two of the students in our graduating class. The first is brother Samson Akum. He hails from Garinkuka, a village near Cheriponi in the Northern Region where he lives. Currently,  he is unmarried. He intends to assist in the establishment of congregations in the Cheriponi district. 

Francis Waja is a student that hails from Bakpaba, which is about seventeen miles from Yendi, the district capital. He is married with three children: Steven, Martha, and Comfort. He plans to help in building strong churches in his district.

By the grace of the Almighty, there will be a workshop in the month of March to prepare all preachers in the northern sector of the country to go through a short course that will enable them to further train church leaders as to how to lead a congregation. In this exercise, it is hoped that those trained at the Tamale Institute of Biblical studies will be required to play key roles.  

This workshop is to help develop strong leadership for existing and new congregations yet to be established. In actual fact, we want as many churches as could be established to have their own trained leadership.

The fear that without a preacher no congregation can be sustained is the notion the Institute wants to put away from the minds of Christians here in the northern sector of Ghana. This notion has discouraged many who planned to help evangelize certain towns where there are no Christians living. This time, the Institute plans to involve existing congregations to train in the local languages those who will lead in the church.

It is our hope that this plan will be successful, in that we are able to go everywhere in the northern sector regardless of the existence of a Christian. 

Baah Joseph Okyere

The Work Continues To Be Fruitful In Nigeria...

Beloved in Christ,

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

The staff and students of the Southwest School of Evangelism (SWSE), Ibadan main campus, evangelized Ogunbunmi and Ogunwon villages on Saturday of February 14, 2015 between 9:00 am and  2:00 pm.

On Sunday, February 15, I concluded my teaching on “Millennialism” while brother Lawrence Dada, one of our 2009 graduates spoke on “The True Worship” during our monthly open air meeting, while I served as his interpreter.

At the Egbeda congregation, brother Kayode Solomon Eniafe taught from the book of Samuel Chapter 2, while brother Akinade Oluwaseun spoke on “Character Building” at the campus church, and brother Abraham Idu Yeje, our campus minister admonished the campus brethren from the book of Revelation chapter 2:1-11.

On Sunday evening, brother Matthew Adeyemi phoned me to inform me of the conversion of a young lady at Igbesa congregation, Ogun state.

Brethren, I will travel on the weekend to pay a visit to brother Samuel Akinsola Ishola, one of the SWSE foundational members, and on Sunday, Lord's willing, I will worship with the Iju-Ota congregation, where I hope to teach on “Crisis Management.”

We posted three packages of our Newsletter and returned lessons from WBS students today to WBSTC, brother Doug Wheeler, and WBS of Texas, USA.

Every disappointment is a blessing! Since the electorate body of Nigeria postponed the elections of February to March and April 2015, we decided to use all the available Saturdays for our weekend evangelism and campaign for Christ.

We used Saturday, February 21 to evangelize Kupalo village before I traveled to Lagos in the evening to visit one of SWSE foundation members, brother Samuel Ishola, that has been on the sick bed since the beginning of this year. Thanks be unto the Lord for healing him.

On Saturday morning, one of the three WBS students of our beloved late brother Robert George, who are now studying with the SWSE Ibadan main campus, named Victor Y. Smarsher was baptized.

This Lord's day, February 22, 2015 I taught on “Crisis Management” at the Iju-Ota congregation in Ogun state where one of our 2013 graduates named brother Adekunle Emmanuel Olanrewaju is ministering and I also admonished them on “Standing the Test of Time” from Matthew 14:22-32 & Matthew 7:24f. We were 61 in attendance with total collection of N16,010=.

Today at the Igbesa congregation in Ogun state, one of brother Matthew Adeyemi’s prospects named sister Mary Raji was baptized immediately after this morning worship.

We received on Saturday evening a big carton of Truth For Today Mission School books on Ezra, Nehemiah and Esther, and Preaching On The Gospel Of Luke 1 & 2 for our instructors' training. 

Brethren, all our year 2 students were actively involved in teaching and admonishing the church where they are ministering as evangelists or Bible teachers.

Works continue tomorrow morning at SWSE Ibadan main campus! Beloved, we appreciate you all for your kind-gesture, which you expressed through your partnership with SWSE, Ibadan and our satellite campus in Lagos! May the Lord of blessing continue to bless all your undertaking in Jesus Christ name, Amen.

Yours in His service,

Makinde Ebenezer Olufemi 
(Director of Studies)
Southwest School of Evangelism (SWSE ), Ibadan & Lagos Campus, Nigeria, West Africa

"The Spirit of Evangelism is Growing in Cameroon"

Dearest in Christ,

Greetings from Cameroon. It was a great weekend here for us in CBIW as it was the first time for some staff and students of CBIW to go out to a specific location for evangelism since the coming of the Gamma batch. Last week went well as our lecturers finalized teaching the long courses to the students. This marks the first two months of intensive studies of the word of God. Tomorrow is examination week. It will be the first exams for the students. Please keep them in your prayers.

This weekend, a majority of our students were in Muea congregation for a Bible lectureship sponsored by that congregation. It was organized by one of our graduate evangelists, Itoe David. He is the minister of the Muea congregation. It was great for us to be part of the work there and to be living witnesses of the power of God.

You can see our students in Muea getting ready for evangelism. They had just arrived a few minutes before. The spirit of evangelism is growing in all those who cross paths with us. These new students have already been initiated with the spirit to go wherever the gospel calls them to go. As we think souls, we go for souls! Our goal is to rob from the strong man’s house so that God can translate those souls from the power of darkness into the kingdom of His dear Son.  

We started moving house to house scattering the seeds of the gospel in Muea village. Muea is a small town with a saturation of denominations, each with different names to attract various people who would be drawn by their different messages. The theme was renewing your confidence in Christ. The congregation of Muea is young but in the two months that our young evangelist Itoe David has been preaching there, they have witnessed  a great change, not only in number, but also in the reasoning faculties of the members towards the scriptures. Keep them in your prayers.

The bread of life was distributed by our students from one house to another free of charge. The community gained knowledge of God’s word by our studies with them and by through one on one Bible study, the use of Bible tracts in our studies with them,  and our leaving with them Bible tracts for them to study on their own. It was great! They could read a wide range of topics from our tracts from Mission Printing. God blessed the weekend evangelism with 5 precious souls that were added in His vineyard. Keep them in your prayers to grow as they receive the milk that will help them grow.

This weekend was also a weekend where the Muea congregation officially organized a welcome ceremony to their new evangelist Itoe David. When I see things like this I am almost crying and I lift up my hands to appreciate God for bringing CBIW to Cameroon. Since 2011, the country of Cameroon has been witnessing a transformation and many great changes, as CBIW is putting preachers in pulpits without preachers and is establishing congregations in communities where the Lord’s church has never been. What a God we serve! Evangelist David is still single and will be in need of a wife to help him do the work well. He solicits your prayers and asks for help to his ministry if God will open the door for you to assist.

An Appeal
Please, I am making an appeal for transport funds for both the current students and all our graduates to storm Lebialem with evangelism. This is a region in Cameroon where the church of Christ is not yet established. Please, we have decided that we need to go there to sow seeds which may bear fruit for the establishment of a new congregation in the administrative area of Menji. One of our students, John Nkemnkeng, is already there working with two congregations we established in the hinterlands. Please come to our aid and help us go there. The number going will be 17 Alpha plus 21 Beta plus 22 Gamma plus 5 staffs plus some preachers. We will need to pay taxi fare for two 30 seat buses. Some who are Christians from that area, who came to my office to make this appeal, said they are ready to feed us for the number of days that we will be there, but they will not be able to transport us. The total amount of about 800.000 frs ($1600) can accomplish this for Christ. The program is scheduled for March 25-29 which is immediately our first mission work with students.

Plans
1) Tomorrow we are starting exams in CBIW. Keep the students in your prayers.

2) Lebialem for Christ in coming up in March. Keep praying for that campaign. 

Appreciations

God bless you! We sincerely thank you for all your help towards the work here. God will reward you if you faint not. Great all around you and do your best to share this  report with others.

Elangwe and family

By His grace Director CBIW

                     EVANGELISM IS OUR MISSION AND OUR MISSION IS EVANGELISM.    2TIM2:2     2TIM4:2

Influencing Eternity One Soul At A Time...

The week ahead brings most of the extension staff to Denver for an annual “spring” meeting. We will discuss numerous areas concerning each school in the program and plans for the future development of the work. Examining ways to improve preacher training around the world is the core purpose of this week’s meeting. Our desire is to provide a program of excellence, and we plan to develop the Bear Valley program into the premier preacher training program in the brotherhood.  Please pray for us as we discuss the growth and development of the work.

Reports this week represent the development of the work. From Haiti to Nepal to several countries in Africa, all the reports share news about God’s increase around the world. The news of souls added to the kingdom is exciting and it indicates why this work is so important. Considering the influence on eternity, we find the power of the gospel that God intended for the salvation of those who obey Him.

Students in Denver also continue their preparation for preaching the gospel. In a few weeks, they will complete this quarter of studies and participate in a campaign. A number of campaigns are scheduled that will take these men all across the country. We pray their efforts in sharing the gospel in each location will be fruitful.

Now on to this week’s incredible reports...

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

The latest report from Larry Waymire about the work in Haiti can be read here.

The latest report from Luis Camacho about the recent graduation in Paraguay can be read here.

Extension Reports 

Youth Day, New Church Plant, Souls Added To The Kingdom: Students in Cameroon work to reach out to young people on youth day, plant a new congregation, and witness souls added.

India Tea Plantations And East Nepal Campaign: The work of the Nepal Center for Biblical Studies extends to numerous places. Three people share a perspective of their recent trip.

Scheduled Activities In Takoradi, Ghana Prepare Students For Work: A number of events, including graduation, are scheduled to help students grow in their work for the Lord.

Third Quarter Of Classes In Nigeria Back In Session: Students return and begin courses that prepare them for the third quarter of their journey at the Southwest School of Evangelism.

Togo Chariot Yields Fruit, 46 Obey The Gospel: The news is exciting out of Togo, as staff and students reach out with the gospel. God gives the increase as this report from CBS shares.

Evangelist In Need Of Prayers And Medical Assistance: A young man, with an amazing track record, is in need of our help. Please read this report to learn more of the details.

On The Road Telling The Story Of God’s Great Love: Cy Stafford is on the road sharing the story of God’s amazing love and work through the people of Tanzania.

New Year, New Job At ACSOP, Tanzania: After returning from furlough, Daniel Gaines shares news this week of a new position he is taking at the Andrew Connally School of Preaching.

Final Thoughts 
With the passing of each week we are reminded of your involvement in making this work possible. We thank you for your love for the Lord, His church, and the lost. We know the value of your assistance and we appreciate your willingness to participate in the defense of the gospel through training preachers. 

God bless
Bob

Youth Day, New Church Plant, Souls Added To The Kingdom...

Dearest in Christ,

Greetings from your brothers and sisters in Cameroon, here in Wotutu. We do hope you are doing amazingly well for the work of the Lord entrusted in your hands.

We are doing better in health and work. The Gamma batch students keep studying and by so doing day after day they are coming to know the meaning of their coming to CBIW. Many of them have started admiring their stay in school as they themselves can testify their signal of growth as they continue to study.

Last week was described aa youth week in Cameroon, as the 11th of February is always a holiday in Cameroon. Our president made a speech acknowledging the plight that is common among the youths and made a promise that there shall be a way out for job creation for the youths. It is always a promise without fulfillments. Away from that, CBIW students used the week after classes to reach out to souls, that the greatest hopes with great assurance is when humans build and put their trust in Christ because His promises will always come to pass.

Students were in class and brother Nguty Victor stood in front of the class to make his first speech as the new student president. Electing others to a post of responsibility is another way to give them some leadership training among themselves. Brother Nguty is a father of 9 children and he left them behind with his wife to study the word. Keep him and his vision in your prayers.

Our students during the youth day celebration shared tracts and the good news to many youths. It was an ample opportunity to reach out to the youths during the youth day celebration in Cameroon.

Our students are trained to point the truth to their prospect in the Bible. Pointing to the truth is our passion. Back to the Bible is what we are known for in Wotutu, as our early morning program is “Back to the Bible.”

Our students are growing day after day with that strong affection for evangelism. Keep them in your prayers as we all shall see their growth to maturity upon their graduation as they go full time.

The Brightland Christian Academy participated in the youth day celebration. Brightland Christian Academy is making waves in Wotutu and the entire community as they won greatly during the choral singing and traditional dance as they displayed. Keep this school in your prayers as they continue to touch the lives of these young ones who will in turn touch their parents, training children daily with the good news.

Sharing tracts from Mission Printing was wide spread that day as many go to different villages with those tracts. One officer said in a quote, “It is better to read tracts now days than to read newspapers where people write captivating stories to make their money, but the Gospel stands the same and interesting.”

Weekend evangelism took us to 5 locations, as I was able to stand with some members of the church of Christ Mbonge Marumba. This is the very first congregation that was planted in Cameroon, but there is no legacy as the congregation is going down because there is no preacher. It is located in an area where there are the largest divisions in Cameroon, Stepping into this community will bring a change as I heard the few leaders spoke to me with tears. Who will lead us? They are in dire need of a preacher every week. The invitation, “come over to us and help us,” is coming from many batches. Few laborers will leave CBIW before this pressure will go down a bit.

This week, there is a new congregation, the newest in Cameroon. A few current students and some of our graduates in the Kumba Mamfe road converged in Babensi 1 for four days of house-to-house evangelism. The Lord added 6 precious to be pioneer members of this new congregation. The villagers where very surprised to hear what they heard about the New Testament church from our PA system which is getting old now. Lots of follow up is needed as our students will be there on the weekend and during mission work.

Two souls were added in Wotutu also, and one soul was restored. Keep praying for the work as many communities need to be touched by the gospel.

Plans
This weekend, it will be the first mass evangelism as all our students will be in Muea. It is not too far from Wotutu. One of our graduates has invited the school to come and be part of his induction or welcome ceremony. The Muea congregation wants to officially welcome their minister, the first of its kind since the existence of that congregation. Our graduate, Itoe David, decided to call other congregations for a mini Bible lectureship from Thursday before the welcome ceremony on Sunday. I salute his ideas of using any opportunity to reach out to lost souls.

Appreciations
God bless you, as we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your efforts toward the growth of the work here. Keep up the good work. God will reward you in due season.

Do your best to share the report with others. The students do not have a camera, which is why we cannot have pictures of all the great events in different locations.   

God bless you.

Elangwe and family
By His grace director CBIW/BVBID

Growing Work Meeting The Growing Need In Haiti...

Greetings in the Name of Our Lord, 

I want to thank you for your support, prayers, encouragement, and interest in the work of Haiti. It is because of concerned congregations and individuals like you that we are now in the second half of the school year at the International School of Theology (IST) in Haiti. 

Our students are eager to work, study and learn more of God’s precious word. As this class progresses I can see that some of these students will have a great impact on the work in Haiti. Please pray for each of them as they study. 

Introducing Some of the Students and Their Work 
I first Introduce Mack. Mack is our full-time Mack translator at the International School of Theology in Haiti. Mack is only seventeen years old but is well grounded in the gospel. His personality is always pleasing and positive. He grew up at the Sonlight Children’s in home and Roberta Edwards has been a mother to him. When I am with Mack, I am reminded of Paul’s relationship with Timothy and Timothy’s relationship with his mother and grandmother. Mack was only 11 years old when I first arrived in Haiti in 2010. He and I packed beans and rice twelve hours a day for a week. He never stopped, complained or tried to run from the work. He has shown himself to be a friend to the other children in the home and to all he meets. 

Mack is still continuing his high school education. I believe God is going to use this young man in many ways as he grows in faith and maturity. I am proud to call him my friend. 

Saint Hubert Felix
Brother Felix is a preacher and educator in Haiti; Saint, is a part of his name. He has been working as a preacher in Cité Soleil for more than thirty years. He has had to flee the area with his family on three occasions because of his stand against sin and for the truth. His faith has been proven even in the face of death. He also serves the community as a director of a Christian school in Cité Soleil. 

Felix serves as one of the directors at IST and will be teaching a course at IST, Religion in Haiti. He has worked for a year without pay to help establish the preaching school. This month, due to a generous member of the church, Felix will be receiving $150 per month for his work with IST. He is worthy of and deserves, far more than we are able to pay at this time. We would like for each of our directors to receive at least $300 per month. Yet, as Felix says “We (IST) are making a difference in Haiti and will long after we have closed our eyes in death. Therefore, we will move forward as a faithful servant of the Lord.” 

Origene Beaubrun 
Brother Beaubrun has been a Christian for about four years. He has shown great faith, love for the lost and his ability to teach the message of Christ. After being a Christian for only a year, he and his wife realized, in his words, “We have pure gold in our hands and must take this to our family in Jérémie.” Jérémie is in the southwest area of the country and it takes about eight hours to drive there. He started making weekend trips to family and friends to teach them the word of God. There are now fourteen new congregations of the Lord’s church in the Jérémie area! To God be the glory and we are also thankful for the Beaubrun and his wife who have faithfully shared God’s word. 

Brother Beaubrun is also a member of the Royal Police Force in Haiti and serves with the Palace Police. He is one of the preachers for the Santo church of Christ and continues to reach people with God’s message of hope. He serves as one of the directors for IST. He has a degree in communication from the University of Haiti. He too has worked to establish the school of preaching and has served without pay. Again, due to the generosity of a good Christian family,
he is now receiving $150 per month. 

Brothers Beaubrun and Felix do not simply take this money and use it for themselves but they use it to help the students. They pay for transportation and snacks for the students who are unable to pay. They use their own money to buy supplies for the school when needed. God has blessed us with two great men to help us move the school forward. 

Jean Yves Desmosthene 
Jean Yves, as most in Haiti, is called by his last name, Desmosthene (pronounced Demo-stain). He has been a preacher for several years and now serves the church in Carrefour. Brother Desmosthene travels about two and one half hours each way to attend class at IST. I had the privilege of preaching at the congregation in Carrefour in December. I have seen how much the church loves brother Desmosthene and the influence he has in the community. The church is poor and cannot pay him therefore he, as most preachers in Haiti, must find other ways to support himself. If you are looking for a good work to help support and work with, I can highly recommend the work in Carrefour. If you would like to take a survey trip to meet Desmosthene and the church, I will be glad to assist. 

Widlord Thomas 
Widlord Thomas recently graduated from Freed- Hardeman University. He is also a product of the Sonlight Children’s Home. Brother Thomas will be serving as a co-director of IST alongside brothers Felix and Beaubrun and will be teaching classes in the local language. His faith stems also from his mother, who is a faithful member of the Lord’s church. The Gauthier congregation started in her home, a mud hut and is now a congregation of about 250. As Thomas settles into the work in Haiti he will no doubt be pulled in many directions. Pray for his faith, strength and wisdom as he uses the knowledge he has gained at FHU to build the church in Haiti. 

We are blessed to have these men in the school at IST and perhaps some of them will be the teachers one day. 

Distant Teaching 
Thanks to the church and friends in Paducah, Kentucky we will soon be able to teach from many locations. The video conferencing equipment has arrived in Haiti and is now being installed. Once this is completed I will be able to teach wherever I am as long as I have an internet connection. We are living in a wonderful time for spreading the message of God. I will give more information at the equipment goes into use. 

Classes for the Ladies  
When IST was being formed, one of our goals was to provide teaching for the ladies. Kim Kasarjian and Sheri Harris from Alabama have said, “HereamIsendme”. They have made two trips to Haiti and the ladies are growing. Their trip in January brought in thirty ladies to the class! They also had a class specifically for the wives of preachers. 

It is not only the training of preachers we are seeking to accomplish but also give strength and knowledge to the whole church. Kim and Sheri did such a wonderful job. One of our students Viciere (V-c-air), came to class and said his wife was in the ladies class and how great it was. Thank you Kim – Thank you Sheri! We need more ladies to go and teach and if you are interested, please let me know. 

A New Location 
We do not like paying rent and we are now in conversation for a new location. We need a permanent place for the school so we can focus on more long range goals.Please pray that God will open the doors so we can make this a reality. We are looking at a two story house that started at $180,000 but we have come to an agreement for $80,000. We will have to make several repairs and this could cost another $25,000. The building is in an ideal location and just across the street from where we often stay. If you are able to help us raise the funds or make a donation to this effort we would be grateful. 100% of the money given to help goes directly to the work. 

Your Help is Needed 
Since it is now February, we must once again pay the rent. The custom in Haiti is to pay a full year in advance. Our rent is $15,000 per year. I have been paying almost half of this each month ($600) but we owe $7,800. The building is working great and we even have a room for visiting teachers if they choose to stay there. If you can help us with part or all of this amount it would be greatly appreciated. 

Monthly Support 
I am not asking for myself but for the students and for the lost souls of Haiti. God has softened the hearts of the Haitian people and at this time the door is open and we must act now. The time may come when we will not reach the masses as we are today. Several of the preachers have said they have a renewed hope because of the International School of Theology. There is a zeal we are generating across the country that will bring in more souls. 

We need your help to train the preachers and teachers at IST. The cost is only $300 per student each month to cover the total cost of supplies, transportation, snacks, pay the rent and utilities. At this time we have $3,100 committed. While we have cut corners and the students have made great sacrifices, we must raise the funds needed. If you or your congregation would like to adopt a student and support him with only $75 per month, it will make a big difference. No amount is too small. It takes $6 per day ($30 per week) to supply a snack for the students, can you help us with that amount? If you or your congregation can take on the full support of a student with $300 per month, it would be reaching lost souls across the country of Haiti. I am willing to come and present our work to you personally or to the congregation. The cost and work is far too much for one person but united we can and will change the lives of many. Thank you in advance for any consideration. 

Larry Waymire 

To see Larry’s report with pictures, please go here.

Contact Information: 

Larry Waymire
Email: lwaymire@gmail.com 
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India Tea Plantations And East Nepal Campaign...

Dear respected brothers in Christ,

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.

I am always happy to write some encouraging words to our brothers and sisters in Christ. NCBS is really blessed by God through His people around the world. We are doing our regular school activities in a normal way. Our students are doing their best in studies. We were able to make one Bible campaign at West Bengal of India and East Nepal from the 15th - 29th of January 2015. Brother Jerry, sister Sunita, and myself went together for two weeks of Bible study. The environment climate was so cold, but the hospitality and welcome were so warm in eight different congregations. Our classes went well. Brother Jerry and sister Sunita coordinated in the women's classes. Two souls were baptized in the Lord at East Nepal. We did our best to serve God's people in His kingdom. 

I must thank God for His love and grace. I must thank you, our brothers and sisters, who are helping us to run our school at Kathmandu, Nepal. I have below message and words from Brother Jerry and sister Sunita.

Thank you.

Brother in Christ,
Gajendra Deshar
gajendra_deshar@yahoo.com 

India Tea Plantations Plus East Nepal Campaign
Gajendra Deshar, the Director of the Nepal Center For Biblical Study [NCBS] in Kathmandu, along with Sunita Rana, a Christian widow and mother of two college students who pioneers our outreach to teach Christian ladies, and Jerry Golphenee spent two weeks [January 15-29] visiting, teaching, fellowshipping and encouraging congregations in eight villages in the Darjeeling District of India and in east Nepal. Each day was a wonderful experience even if measured separately. The whole time and experience of growth for those being taught, the local leaders, and for the teachers, was and will continue to be a blessing for the kingdom of Christ.

These two weeks were also a special joy when we reflect on how far we have come in Christian love and fellowship over the last five years. NCBS opened in January 2010. At that time we had no support or encouragement from the congregations in these areas. Unfortunately we had some active opposition from church leaders in east Nepal. An American missionary, not directly associated with the school, which has worked in Nepal for twenty years labeled it as “jealousy and bitterness” because their area was not getting special recognition. This is common to Nepal because of its ethnic, tribal, and geographical separations as well as the caste system. The Nepal government has been unable to write a Constitution over the last five years with two different Parliaments and Prime Ministers because of the rivalry, prejudice, and self-serving demands of the ethnic and geographical divisions. This historical cultural trait also has affected the church resulting in fragmentation and lack of fellowship. However, it is with great joy that we are seeing a whole different attitude from these same leaders and congregations today.    

Our first class of students had one man from east Nepal. However, over the previous ten years he had spent seven years working out of the country to earn money for his family. His connection to any congregation in east Nepal was very loose. Still they opposed him being a student at NCBS. Today, we have five students from these areas of India and east Nepal. The local leaders are supportive, encouraging, and even proud that their young men are devoting themselves to a more active work for the Lord and with their study at the preaching school.

What has brought about this change of heart, mind, and behavior?

1. The noticeable progress and conduct of our graduates [11 in the first two classes……. 2010 to 2013]. Our product is our biggest blessing.

2. The excitement and unbelievable amazement of the local congregations when they see the Bible knowledge combined with the servant leadership attitude of the graduates.

3. The high level of teaching of classes and delivery of sermons by the 11 graduates. The result is greater learning by the members and increased motivation to mature more.

4. The hard work and humble attitude from Gajendra. High in leadership by service and strong in truth. Void of boasting and criticism. His ever faithful and soft response has turned closed doors into open arms.

Nepali Christians, students and teachers, are responsible for these much needed blessings and the progress that brings rejoicing. The leaders who opposed or stood at a distance in 2010 are to also be commended. They have objectively viewed the progress being made, had their fears and questions answered, and have accepted their responsibility in strengthening and expanding the Lord’s church. The respect, cooperation, fellowship, singleness of purpose, and frequent expressions of love expressed over these two weeks were prayers answered and dreams come true.  

We Americans, those providing financial support from home, those who visit and teach on occasion, and myself [live here 9-10 months per year] can guide and assist this growth. Foreigners will never evangelize the local population. That can only be done when Nepali preachers and teachers, including women teaching women, “speak the truth in love” and give those words credibility by Christian example.   

The progress in the past five years, and the bright hope for more growth in the future, go hand in hand with the reduction of frustration I feel after 17 years of working with the church. The internal cultural fragmentations of the past are being broken down as seen in our 11 graduates, and our present 12 students, from various areas and different ethnic groups. They work in harmony as we do campaigns all over Nepal. The visiting missionary is being supplemented by a constant working presence of the school. All these factors that were separated and fragmented in the past are now working together year round to bring this progress all over Nepal.

A brief message about our recent trip: First ….. We were invited by local leaders and joyfully received by each congregations. That is essential for a fruitful campaign. Gajendra and I taught men and women together each morning on two subjects; lessons from the book of Ephesians and lessons on personal Christian maturity, which leads to congregational growth. Gajendra continued these lessons in the afternoon while Sunita and I taught the ladies some parables of Jesus and a lesson on the scriptural role of women in the church. The lessons were appropriate, timely, and needed. We had a devotional every evening. The reception was outstanding. The smiles on the faces in every congregation said as much as their words of gratitude. Last, and related to the first, is that we were enthusiastically requested to return soon and frequently.  

We will supply money to add on a room for a church meeting hall in Kurti, India. See the picture of the very crowded and very small room below. It will cost $4,000.00 with them doing all the labor. A tea worker earns about $1.25 per day [7:30-4:30]. It is the right thing to do at the most needed place.

The smiles on our faces, which you cannot see, compliment our words of gratitude and appreciation to our brothers and sisters in the USA for your prayers and love graciously supported with your generosity.   

Jerry Golphenee
jrgx21958@gmail.com         

A word from Sunita:
In the 15 days campaign, Brother Jerry, Brother Gajendra and I traveled to West Bengal India, Darjeeling, Mirik and east Nepal. During that time we visited eight different congregations. We had a great experience with all the families in Christ. Brother Jerry and I, Sunita, handled the ladies’ Bible classes after the combined classes with the men and women together. It was a wonderful experience taking the ladies classes. Wherever we had classes, we were welcomed with a lot of enthusiasm and a great desire to learn the word of God. Most people had a very low Bible knowledge but a great interest to learn. Their warm welcoming attitudes and their loving hospitality touched our hearts. They have invited us to come in the near future. I am so thankful for this trip. 

I would also like to thank you all for your prayers and your support. Without your support, it would not have been possible. I would also like to thank brother Jerry from my heart. He is a big encouragement and help to me and all the ladies in Nepal in all the time that he has spent here. May God bless all of you.

From your sister in Christ          

Sunita Rana
sunita_rore@yahoo.com