Ending the year well in Accra

ACCRA REPORT

DECEMBER

We are thankful to the Lord for another end of month December and thus the end of the year 2020. Much has been accomplished by the Lord for us. Praise be to Him in highest for such precious protection of our lives till this time. We are happy to have this love from God.

CLASS ACTIVITIES

As reported in our November report, all the courses were completed and exams were conducted. All the students participated well except those who couldn’t report when school resumed. This month no course was left to be done except the evangelism campaign.

INTERNAL & EXTERNAL ACTIVITIES

Campaign at Doryumu

This month, we had our evangelism campaign as scheduled on our time table. This time, we went to Doryumu to work for 7 days. During this programme we did house to house, open-air, and public preaching. We had two (2) baptisms recorded.

Campaign at Batanyaa

This campaign was organized by our immediate student Samuel Arhin with some of his colleagues who are under preparation to graduate on 30th January, 2021 and the new student (current admission). The house to house campaign was done in Batanyaa in the Central Region of Ghana. Greatly, Nine (9) baptisms were recorded to the glory of our Lord.

Campaign at Afiaman

Afiaman is a town in Accra. Our student, Solomon Tetteh (yet to be graduated) is an evangelist and also works with a brother by name, Karikari. The nature of their work is that they take care of old men and women by providing medical treatment and feeding in their various homes. Alongside this work, he evangelized them and had one got baptized.

Yellow Fever Vaccination Update

It was announced by the Ministry of Health (MOH) to have everyone vaccinated for the Yellow Fever Injection. The school arranged with the Notre Dame Clinic in Nsawam and they came into the school and all the students and some staff were vaccinated.

School Registration Update (Registrar General’s Department)

All documents necessary for the registration of Accra School have been acquired and under the process of completing them. Hopefully, by the end of January 2021 the registration will be over.

Lands Department Update

As I reported in the previous report on the general system update problem from the Lands Department, till now, they have not been able to resume work. However, we are still awaiting them.

Graduation Update

The necessary arrangements are ongoing and meetings are being held to pave way for success of the programme. On our programme outline, we had all staff taken part in the activities: the guest speaker is Seth Osae Larbi, Joseph Kofi Damptey as the invited guest, Kojo will be doing the matriculation, EO Larbi will be reading the Welcome Address, Steven Ashcraft will give charge to the graduands, and thereof hopefully, on 30th January, 2021 the graduation will surely come on if the Lord permits.

School Vacation and Resume dates

The school vacated on 20th December, 2020 right after the evangelism campaign had completed. All the students left for their various homes.

We shall resume from break on 10th January, 2021 respectively.

Donation from brother Karikari, Village of Hope and Other members

In our previous campaign Northern Ghana, we decided that the school will gather up some dresses to be donated to the newly established churches in the villages. We announced to some of the brethren and this brother, Karikari who works with the Village of Hope, gave some items to be given to the churches. Other brethren also have brought to the school plenty of dresses for the donation. We were very happy to have them. We hope these items will give them some relief.

In conclusion, this is how far the Lord has brought us throughout this month for the various activities and updates that we came by.

We say glory be to the Lord for the wonderful care and love He showed to us in the entire year. We are still praying that the beginning and the ending of next year 2021, will also be successful as we had it this year, 2020, COVID-19 free and no student or staff had the attack.

May His Name be glorified.

Another great year in Abuja!

REPORT OF THE BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE - ABUJA FROM FEBRUARY TO DECEMBER, 2020

INTRODUCTION:

The Bear Valley Bible Institute - Abuja (BVBI-A) began the second year activities with a Lectureship on 10th February 2020 at the Kado Center of the school. Other activities of the day included admission of new students and orientation. The COVID 19 pandemic didn't spare the school as the government lockdown and restrictions affected the school activities for two months (April-May), as well as major activities such as group evangelism etc of the school were altered.

REPORT OF COURSE WORK:

A total of Nine (9) courses scheduled for year two were taken within the period under review, while three (3) courses (affected by covid-19 lockdown) are pending to be taken within the first quarter of 2021. The courses are as follows:

* Life of Christ II - February/March (Handled by Moses Obakemi )

* Old Testament II - February/March (Handled by  David Akpata) 

* Prison Epistles - June/July (Handled by Kennedy Abrotu)

* I & II Thessalonians - August/September (Handled by Dominic Dakup)

* The Study of Islam - June/July (Handled by Rupert Kukwa)

* Personal Evangelism II - August/September (Handled by  Imoh Enang Atakpa )

* The Galatians - October/November (Handled by  Abiodun Adegoroye )

* I & II Peter & Jude – December 2020/Januuary 2021 (being handled by Felix Ekpeyong)

* Christian Ethics – December2020/January 2021 (being handled by Dominic Dakup )

* New Testament Church (Worship) -  January 2021 (To be handled by  Felix Ekpeyong)

* I Corinthians - February/March 2021 (to be handled by Abiodun Adegoroye)

* Leadership in Local Church - February/March, 2021 (to be handled by Moses Obakemi)

SCHOOL FACTS:

We started the year with an average of 17 students in Nyanya center and 18 students in Kado center. While some students dropped along the way due to logistics, work, family and personal challenges, others are still struggling to meet up with class and course work.  Also, a total of Eight (8) Teachers/Instructors participated in the course work for the year.  The list of the newly admitted students include: 1. Ayegba Andrew; 2. Madalla Haruna Y.; 3. Milling Chukwumeze; 4. Gloria Etim; 5. Udo Aniefiok Linus.

EVANGELISM ACTIVITIES:

As a result of the government restriction of movements and gatherings due to COVID 19 pandemic, the school general evangelism could not hold, but the Nyanya center students organized two open-air evangelism outreaches with the aim of strengthening two congregations, including newly established congregation within the school area. The two evangelisms held by the grace of God are: the one held at the premises of Church of Christ Jikwoyi  on the 27th September 2020 where the topic  “When and How can one be saved” was taught.  And the second one held at the premises of the newly established Church of Christ Zhewun, Masaka on the 20th December 2020 where the topic “Salvation in Christ Alone” was taught. We are glad to report that these campaigns were funded by the school management and huge successes were recorded in the whole exercise. In preparation for next year evangelism campaign, the school has arranged for the printing of 5,000 copies of tracts (3in1 coloured type) for the use of the students.

CHALLENGES:

1. The Outbreak of Covid-19

This virus outbreak poised a great challenge to our studies and activities within the period under review. Due to the outbreak of Covid-19 on March 2020, the school couldn’t continue on her studies and for a period of three (3 ) good months, both students and lecturers were forced to stay indoors for safety first pending how the pandemic will be managed.  Of a truth, we were not happy but have no options. May God’s name be praised for His continued protection over us throughout the period.  Neither our students nor any lecturer contacted the virus not to think of death.  Nonetheless, this gab created a big setback on our studies having missed three (3) good courses that ordinarily should have been through with. This in turn will also affect our graduation period which ordinarily supposed to be by February since those courses are necessary and mandatory.

2. Difficulty in our research work.

As a matter of fact, effective studies that will make one an effective preacher will require a good library for research purposes. This is lacking in our campuses and it is grossly affecting the students, thereby making effective research work almost impossible. Having a well furnished Christian resource library in Abuja will help the school and the churches around in no small measure and it will engender growth and spiritual development. We pray God to bless you and open a way through which this project will come to fruition in Jesus mighty name. Amen!

CONCLUSION:

We appreciate the partnership and support of the Bear Valley School in building capacities of preachers and members towards the growth and development of the church in Africa, especially Nigeria.

The teachers and students are very excited about this wonderful opportunity to study God’s word and be useful instruments in the vineyard of the Lord.  There is a prospect for growth and expansion of the work and we crave your indulgence not to waiver in your good work of partnership so that together we can build an excellent platform for learning of the scriptures and strengthening the churches. May God help us and see us through in Jesus mighty name. Amen!

A great year in Gweru!

DECEMBER 2020 NARRATIVE REPORT

INTRODUCTION

December was an eventful month for the school. There are several developments that took place in  the month. Because this is the last month in the year, we also post a summary  of what transpired during the rest of the year in terms of students’ practicums. Several other developments are highlighted hereunder.

1.0  NEW INTAKE

1.1 FACE TO FACE INSTRUCTION BEGINS

The school resumed its face to face instruction on the 6th of December and closed for a brief break on the 20th. This class was to commence its studies in May of this year but the process grounded to a halt due to the COVID pandemic and subsequent lockdowns. As a stop gap measure, online classes were done for 7 subjects. The two week program was meant to cement what was taught during the virtual classes. Of the 14 students that had been accepted, 12 turned up.

2.0 BICYCLES FOR EVANGELISM

Since activities have started at the school’s new campus. BVBIZ will be on a drive, through this class and subsequent ones, to  reach nearby areas with the Gospel and possibly establish new congregations. For this to happen, bicycles are needed for this team. Transport is a huge challenge in the area.

3.0 SECOND INTAKE UPDATES

3.1 GRADUATION AND OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE SITE

Preparations for the graduation of the 2018 class are in progress. The date remains the 13th of February 2021. This event will culminate into the official opening of the site the same day. The church and the community, together with past students are invited to this historic occasion.

3.2 END OF YEAR STATISTICS

The following statistics are from;

·         The school’s weekend evangelism programs (Saturdays and Sundays)

·         The school’s one week campaigns (which takes place at least once every tearm)

·         The schools field/attachment program where students are attached to a congregation for 8 months (May-December). Covid 19 limited this effort but the students worked under this difficult challenge.

ITEM TOTAL

Congregations benefited from BVBIZ’s weekend evangelism program 8

Total Hours Out in Evangelism 2720

Sermons Preached 250

Counselling sessions 61

Devotions 810

Bible Classes Taught 209

Song leading opportunities 131

Lessons taught to prospects 1410

Restorations 35

Baptisms 156

Total prospects 2321

Tracts Distributed 750

WBS booklets Distributed 810

Hospital and Prison Visitations 6

Congregations Started 1

4.0 PROJECTS

Two projects, maize and broilers, took centre stage in the month of December.

4.1 MAIZE

In late November we grew a hectare of maize whilst we grew another hectare on the 16th of December. There has been a lot of rain in the area but our hope is that the crop will not be affected negatively. In January, we are hoping to begin preparations for the planting of beans.

4.2 POULTRY

We had a second batch of 200 chickens which was sold in late November into the first week of December. Of this number, 190 were sold whilst 10 died during the first 2 weeks. From the sales, $350 was used to buy roofing sheets for our cottage/storerooms being constructed whilst the rest was reinvested into the next batches. The third batch has 25 birds (already on sale), the fourth has 50 birds which will be ready by the 10th of January, whilst the last batch has 150 birds and should be ready towards the end of January. Our desire was to have a minimum of 400 broilers per month but funds are not yet permitting this to happen. Another fowl run will be needed. Presently, however,  the school is reaping the fruits of these small batches. 

5.0 INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT

There was a lot of activity in terms of the development of infrastructure. From what was done in  December, the school’s new campus is now usable.

5.1 TEACHER’S HOUSE

Development continued on the teacher’s house. The box and backfilling were completed in November, whilst compaction and the slab was done in December. The builders took a break after the slab and will be back to continue with their work. We hope to finish all the brickwork when the builders come back. Great appreciation to Woodland Oaks for providing $2000 to continue with the work, $50 from Chirenda family and  $25 from Simbi family.

5.2 THE HOSTEL

After the hostel had been completed, there were some outstanding issues that needed to be worked on. This included electrical wiring and installation, installation of floor tiles and painting. The situation remained the same for the classrooms. However, the main work was on the hostel. Great appreciation to Bear Valley Bible Institute International for providing $11876 towards this cause. Floor tiles were installed, painting of the hostel (both inside and outside) was done and wiring of the hostel including installation of a solar system was also done. The inside walls of the hostel were worked on with rhinoset first in order to smoothen the walls and improve the quality of the painting.  The outside walls of the classrooms were also painted.  As of the 31st of December, final touches were still being made of the structure.

 5.3 KITCHEN

Since firewood (apart from gas) is going to be used for cooking, it was necessary to work on an outside kitchen so that cooking becomes easy. Part of the funds that were received helped in putting up the roof, floors and plastering.

 5.4 STOREROOMS/COTTAGE

Behind the hostel, there is a structure that was  constructed in August to act as a storeroom and also house a married student couple. Through some of the school’s savings, we took advantage of the presence of builders who were constructing the teacher’s house to plaster the structure.  From the profit the school got after the sale of the second batch of broilers, $350 was used to buy 22 roofing sheets. 6 more are needed to finish the roof. The other outstanding issues will be the floors, plastering of the inside walls, doors and window frames.

CONCLUSION

Finally, we thank God for the journey travelled. We also thank Woodland Oaks and Bear Valley Bible Institute International  for their unwavering support. To the teachers, students, board and the church.  thank you. Several local partners who partnered with BVBIZ , one way or another, in 2020, thank you. We keep wishing all of you a blessed and prosperous 2019 even  as we continue to pray for the end to the COVID19 pandemic. To God be the glory!

The year in review in Arusha

Grace and Peace to you friends.

On behalf of the team at Tanzania Missions, I want to wish you a happy and prosperous new year! Last year brought a great many challenges that none of us anticipated, and we are hopeful for a return to normalcy this year. However, despite those challenges, God still did some great things in Tanzania. I want to give you a snapshot of some of those things.

YEAR IN REVIEW 2020

• The Andrew Connelly School of Preaching had 24 undergraduate students.

• 8 students successfully completed their bachelor's degrees

• 4 students earned a master's degree

• 239 lost souls were baptized for the remission of their sins (58 from student evangelism)

• 129 erring souls were restored

• 1 congregation rescued from vanishing

• 2 camps were hosted at ACSOP (Future Preacher Training Camp and Tanzania Christian Camp)

• 1 lectureship hosted (Tanzania Leadership Conference)

• $6,000 raised for COVID relief in Tanzania

As you can see, the Lord has been at work in powerful ways in East Africa. Thank you for your encouragement and support during 2020. Join with me in praying for an even better 2021 for the Lord's work in Tanzania.

Till all have heard,

Daniel Gaines
Director
Tanzania Missions

Evangelism in Zambia

December, 2020

Report

There is an air of excitement here and the spirit of goodwill and We wish you all happy holidays and a very prosperous 2021!!!

Once again the month of December has been filled with activities that has been a determination to achieve for Jesus. Our students wrote their first quarter final examinations successfully, Before our short break evangelism which has been done in Baluba district where we had nine souls put on Christ has given as a great desire to do His will, we mean there has been a great awareness of His Abiding presence in our lives. We also on the other development had a leadership meetings in Luanshya and Ndola District to discuss strategies on how we are going to coordinate unity and Evangelism in the Church which was Very successful and there is desire to do His will.

And during this short holiday we have received confirmation from all our students that they are ready and cannot wait to report back for school. Apart from working in the fields, then students are also spreading the gospel in their respective areas. Daniel Kapata our first year student reports from Zimba, Southern Province of Zambia that since his return back home four (4)people have been baptized, And has nine (9) other people who have so far been restored back to the Lord. Our Evangelism with Arcray Kabaya in Siavonga District has resulted in three (3) souls being restored back to the sheepfold. Our former student Simon Khazi in Lusaka has also baptized two (2) and restored one (1). It has been the month of excitement

The school resumes on 4th January, 2021. And this will be the second quarter in their first year. The courses that will be offered are as follows:

I. Regular courses

a. Biblical Interpretation 1 (Introduction to Hermeneutics)

b. Life of Christ 1 (Overview of Four-fold gospels)

c. Public speaking 1 (Intro. to sermon preparation and presentation)

d. Acts

II. Short Courses

a. The New Testament Church (One True Church)

b. Godhead

We continue to pray for Brother Donnie Estep coming to Zambia in February, 2021. This period will coincide with the graduation ceremony of the 2020 class. We pray that the Zambian Government continues relaxing some restrictions of Covid 19. So far they have done a good job in containing this pandemic though again the spreading is on the rise. We continues to pray that our program is not disturbed.

May the God of Heaven, the Shepherd of our souls bless our relationship and may we grow together in grace as we walk and work together to the glory of our God. We pray that God will bless the work that you all are involved in as well. Please stay safe and well!

Brotherly,

Cephas and Fred

Classes continue in Lagos

BVBI REPORT FROM  IKORODU LAGOS NIGERIA (WEEKEND CLASS)

Greeting from the staff and students of Bear Valley Bible Institute Owutu Ikorodu Lagos State Nigeria.

 Here is the summary of the last quarter 2020

1.     Overview:

Our diploma student are still regular and serious in their studies. Our teachers are regular and punctual in the class. On October 25th, we have observed our second campaign for 2020. Through the campaign, we gained four souls who got baptized and were added into the Lord’s Church.

We had five restoration and we are still working on a denominational pastor as our prospect (Divine Intervention Ministry as he called the church).

2.     Number of Students:

We have 25 students in Ikorodu campus. Out of this number, we have two sisters and ten preachers and others are teachers in their respective congregations of the Lord. They are all active and regular in the class.

 We lost one of our student who should have made up 26 students in number. By name (late Bro. Ernest Ikhile) he was buried on August 6th 2020 (70 years).

3.     Instructors and Lectures: 

Our Instructors are serious and regular in the class. The subject treated so far from July are:

·       1, 2 and 3 John

·       Old Testament 4 ( Study of the Major prophets; Isaiah)

·       Galatians

·       Biblical Interpretations 2

·       World Religions

·       Life of Christ 3 (Luke)

·       Personal Evangelism 2 ( Church Planting)

The instructors are Bro Mfon Etim, Bro Timothy Iwe, Bro Linus Agada, Bro Abiola Joseph Olusoji, Bro Chinyere Okoro and Bro Ezekiel Okorougo. They are punctual, regular and active in the class.

4.       Lectureship/ Seminars in 2020:

We organized an indoor lecture for our students and some guests were invited. Due to the pandemic, large gatherings were not permitted in Lagos State.

The theme was: ‘Christ and the Church’.

We are looking forward to 2021 for perfect activities to be carried out. We are grateful to God for successful completion on this year activities. We are grateful to Bear Valley Bible Institute Management for their support and motivation.

May God keep you safe in all your endeavor In Christ name, Amen.

I remain you fellow worker in Christ.

Bro Mfon Etim Adeh

( Ikorodu Campus Director)

19 students in Kasoa, Ghana

KASOA, Ghana

4th Quarter Report

October, November, December, 2020

So soon we are through the year 2020. The Lord has been good and kind to us during this mess that overtook the world. None of the students was positive so are none of the people we know. Praying that the coming year will continue to be a blessing to us.

SCHOOL IN KASOA

The school in this town is fast growing as it is nearer to Accra, our national capital. We have 19 students, 18 men and one lady who is a Bible teacher for the Ladies.  We are most grateful to the church here in Kasoa for given us their premises for the use of the school. One of our students left to be one of the regular students in Accra.

All the students are leaders in their congregations and they all preach as fill in, whereas 10 of them are working as preachers in their congregations.

The students were blessed with book gifts from a preacher-donor from USA. Each student got a set of books, The Life of Christ I and II. These books were used along side our Course-The Life of Christ and it was a real blessing.

SCHOOL WORK

Roger Solomon Asante is the main  instructor and he has done much work in the School. For now, he has been teaching as Kojo goes in and teach a Course about once in three months. Our students regularly attend all classes and try to get passes in all the Courses.

CAMPAIGN/EVANGELISM

Because of the social distancing, we could not do a campaign but instead a planned visitation to all the congregations our students come from. It was most welcomed as the students were given the chance to preach and teach. It also gave the chance for the students to talk about the school and how it is being a blessing to the work in Ghana. 6 baptisms were recorded.

We thank all those who are supporting us and we pray God's blessings for you all. Things are hard and prices are high and we ask you to pray with us for God's mercy and grace.

ITEMS RECEIVED

We are grateful for the water dispenser, study chairs, mattresses sent to us with some funds for other needed items. The Lord bless you for these items for the comfort of the students.

A special need in Nigeria

DECEMBER 2020 FIELD WORK REPORT

Dear fellow servants of God.

Greetings in the  name of our Redeemer and Sustainer ,Jesus Christ, the Author and Finisher of our faith. We appreciate everyone of you for making year 2020 a big success through your moral and financial supports . Without you this school will just be as dormant as a graveyard. Here is the summary of our December 2020 activities.

OVERVIEW

i-  Second Semester Classes and Instructors

ii-  Weekend Evangelism / Campaigns

iii-  End of the year program

iv- Great Workshop 2021

SECOND SEMESTER CLASSES  AND INSTRUCTORS  FOR THE 2020/21 SET:

The Second Semester Classes for this 2020/21 set continued as scheduled. Bro. Isaac Olaniyan is handling  World Religions and the Book of Galatians; Bro. Andrew Adeolu is handling Christian Evidences and How we got the Bible; Bro. Kayode Solomon Eniafe is handling OTP(Major) and Evangelism-2; Bro.Silas Guda Mazi is handling LOC-2(Mark) and Hermeneutics 2; Bro. Makinde John (my second son,a Bsc holder in Agricultural Science from Federal University of Agriculture,Akure ,Ondo State and holder of Advanced Diploma from BVBIN ) is handling Hermeneutics-1;  Bro. Emmanuel Godwin(one of our BVBIN degree students) is handling Acts of the Apostles and Cost of Discipleship while I (Bro. Makinde Ebenezer Olufemi)is handling Research & Writing (Elementary), Homiletics-1 and Ministerial Counseling.

We closed on December 18 to allow our students participate in the end of the year activities. Classes will continue on January 4th through 22nd,2021 Lord's willing. 

WEEKEND EVANGELISM / CAMPAIGNS:

According to our schedule, the students and staff of BVBIN & SWSE, Ibadan were busy every weekend in the evangelization of Butubutu village and environment, Jago / Kupalo, Badeku, Egbeda,Ajia and Asejire of Oyo and Osun State. Even though no conversion was recorded, still we were able to cover many places during this month evangelism and campaigns.

END OF THE YEAR PROGRAM:

I (Bro. Makinde), Bro.Andrew Adeolu and Bro.Kayode S.Eniafe were the guests speakers at the end of the year program/ three days Mass Evangelism and Open-Air Bible Lectureship organized by the Lord's church in Badeku town on December 24-26,2020 and we shall also be serving as the guests speakers on December 27-29,2020 at Egbeda congregation, Erunmu road, Egbeda Local Government,Oyo State. The theme of the three days Open-Air Bible Lectureship in the two congregations is Heaven or Hell... Where will you like to spend your eternity?

GREAT WORKSHOP 2021:

In preparation for the Annual Seminar for WBSFUW /Evangelists known as Great Workshop in the date yet to be announced by Nigerian Evangelism minister/ WBSFUW Coordinator, Bro. Chad Wagner, we have reserved 3,000 copies of Voice Of Truth International volumes 104,105,106 & 107 , 5,000 copies of WBS Introduction lessons, 400 copies of BVBIN & SWSE 2021 Calendar, 400 copies of my write-up on Evangelism and 400 copies of our 18th Annual Bible Lectureship booklet of August 2020 held at Butubutu village- the permanent home of BVBIN & SWSE, Ibadan for free distribution during the forth coming Great Workshop in Lagos State ,Lord's willing.

ABOUT A STUDENT :

Bro. Idowu Jonathan Authority is one of our present year-1 students. Admitted in August 2019. Born on September 2003 in Owode-Titun ,Ogun State. His father,Bro. Idowu Innocent is one of the leading members at Owode-Titun congregation,Ogun State. Baptized in early 2019. Presently our chapel prefect. His mission is to acquire more knowledge in the Scriptures in other to become a vessel of honor in the Lord's church now after his University education.

SPECIAL CHALLENGES:

Due to the economic instability and the rising cost of living in our country-Nigeria. It's now mandatory for the school to balance up the remaining sum of N865,000($2,246) been loaned on September 2019 for the upgrading of the school buildings plan before this year runs out.

We therefore, humbly appeal to you all to come to our rescue! No amount will be too small or big to help us out! Kindly send your contribution to us through Bro. Steven Ashcraft(Director- BVBID, West Africa Region) or Bro.Chad Wagner (Patron-SWSE,Ibadan,Nigeria & Coordinator of BVBIN)

SPECIAL ACCOMPLISHMENT:

Due to the rapid development of Ajia town- the home of the executive governor of Oyo State, Engineer Abiodun Oluseyi Makinde, our campus minister, Bro. Andrew Adeolu,who assisted for the period of one year in the restoration of some brethren in Jago congregation moved to Ajia town for the building up of this young congregation on December 15,2020 .

MISCELLANEOUS:

The SWSE (Southwest School of Evangelism) foundation members now appoint me to serve as the campus minister till someone occupied the position in the near future.

CONCLUSION: We appreciate those that have been there for us and all who played vital roles in helping us in the continuation of this preachers' training program in this part of the world since year 2003. May God in His abundant blessings continue to bless our joint effort in Christ name, Amen. May the New Year  bring you more dew from heaven, give you abundant joy, peace and good health to take you, your family members and associate through the year 2021. HAPPY BOXING DAY AND A PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR  TO YOU ALL !

I remain yours in His Grace as a servant.....Makinde Ebenezer Olufemi (The Chief Servant of BVBIN & SWSE,Ibadan and WBSFUW)

Doing good in Accra

END OF 4th QUARTER REPORT

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE, NSAWAM

OCTOBER, NOVEMBER, DECEMBER, 2020

Prologue

Praise be to the Lord for the end of the 4th quarter of October to December and the end of the year 2020. We are much grateful to the Lord and we appreciate the effort, prayer, and support of the brethren for the progress of the Nsawam School. May the Lord restore in abundance all that you have spent on the school.

Class Activities

Class activities are always in progress during the weekends until a special break. During October and November, Brother Amoo-Gyimah taught two courses (Logic and the Bible, and Christian Ethics).

Items received for Nsawam

We have received a Bruhm Dispenser and some funds for other needful items.

Campaign Activities

Just recently, the students joined in with the full-time students in the campaign at Doryumu. The campaign lasted one week where students participated in the open-air, house to house and dawn preaching in two separate towns. Two souls were baptized during the activities.

COVID-19 Related Issues

The director, instructors, and the students were grateful to the Lord that since school resumed, there has not been a report on any of the students or staff being affected by this virus. Everyone is doing well. All the safety protocols are being used accordingly. It is in our plan to fumigate the meeting place before we resume for next year 8th January 2021.

Students' Profile

I am here to present our dear brother Charles Afari who has been a student for the Nsawam School since 2018. Brother Afari is 48 years and an Accountant by profession at the Electricity Company of Ghana. He has married Christiana Osafo Debe, a Teacher. This couple has been blessed with five (5) children. Afari is the evangelist at Afuaman church of Christ 2 years now. The church population is about 50 baptized members and 40 children in numbers. Interestingly, the church is 2years now and has completed building (place of worship). Just last month November, Afari has appointed leaders (not elders) to help in the spiritual maturity upon several lectureships organized on leadership. The staff and the director of the school were greatly amazed by such endeavors. Sammy was invited to ordain the leaders and to exhort them.

Afari commented on services the school has provided for him in his missionary works. For two reasons, he stated that "the school has been very helpful in his work with the Afuaman church, the right teaching encouraged me in the mission work and the personal work materials from the literature center has been very useful in the mission work."

He has also requested the school to assist in the oncoming evangelism campaign at Afuaman. This man Afari has decided to supply electrical power to the school's plot as part of his project. He recently went to visit the place.

Conclusion

The above report was the activities that went on during this 4th quarter of the year, 2020.

We are so much pleased and thankful to everyone, the effort you have put into the progress of the Nsawam school: the funds, study materials, prayers, and all forms of support rendered to us.

Much appreciation goes to Steven Ashcraft, Keith Kasarjian, the Management of Bear Valley Bible Schools, the supporting churches, Kojo, Regina Sasu-Ntim (our cook), the teaching staff, and everyone who helped in this regard this year.

The grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ be with you all.

We are also putting much effort to maintain the school's progress and the true doctrine of Christ until He comes back.

We shall never forget to thank our Lord for you in all the good plans you have for the Lord's work. Also, pray with us all the time.

Reported by Samuel Sasu Ntim (Sammy) of Bear Valley Bible Institute, Nsawam.

A challenging but productive year in Fiji

Reflection on 2020 challenges for BIR
This has been an interesting year. We had big plans. We had scheduled 8 guest speakers to come teach in our program this year. Tony Duncan and his wife Kathy arrived in time to help us kick off the school year. He co-taught our class on the Writings of John with Emosi. Beginning on February 18 he taught for two weeks on the Gospel of John, and was followed by Emosi who finished the course teaching on John’s three epistles. Tony did an excellent job and Cathy also worked with the ladies in the program on how to do a ladies’ devotional.

Shortly after their departure we were shut down by the government on March 24 and had to finish the first term via videos. We were able to distribute these videos to the students due to a generous donation from David and Connie from Alabama. We were still hopeful that some of our teachers would be able to make it later in the year, but that turned out not to be.

We had to totally revamp our schedule to get the required courses in and eventually had to tell the short course teachers one by one that they would not be able to get into the country due to the travel restrictions imposed by the Fiji Government.

Two of our short course teachers volunteered to teach their courses via audio recordings. Terry Pafford wrote a textbook, recorded 17 short lessons on Psalms and 14 lessons on Job, wrote the exams, and graded the exams and homework assignments from his home in Midland, Texas. He did an excellent job with the class.

Dr. Tim Ashley also recorded his class. We were really excited about the course he was scheduled to teach on Maintaining the Preacher’s Physical, Mental, and Spiritual Health. As a primary care family physician who has lived in the Pacific and an elder in the church, he was uniquely qualified to teach on this important subject. He wrote a textbook, recorded 15 lessons, and administered and graded exams and class assignments. In conjunction with this class, students were required to keep a health diary, set health goals, and write a plan for their village. We also had a health screening clinic in conjunction with the class where the student’s weight, blood pressure, and blood sugar was tested and recorded. His class was well received.

By a tight schedule, and reassigning short courses to our local staff we were able to get the required classes and hours in necessary for our 2nd year students to graduate on time. As was mentioned in our last report, we had six students to graduate on October 31, 2020. Again, due to the travel restrictions, we were not able to have any guest speakers from the U.S. But Terry Pafford, Keith Kasarjian, and Denny Petrillo sent videos, and Lesio spoke locally on behalf of the students.

We thought the challenges were behind us for 2020, but one more surprise was in store. Cyclone Yasa struck Fiji on the 18 of December. We thought Suva, where the school is located, was in line for a direct hit. Cyclone Yasa didn’t turn as far to the south as was initially predicted, but it stayed to the north of us. However, the northern island of Vanua Levu was hammered. The churches of Christ in the villages of Nabouwalu, Labasa, Buca, and Vatudamu were hit hard. There was significant damage to many of their homes. But the most serious problem was the destruction of their crops. Especially with the downturn of the economy due to the covid19 travel restrictions they are particularly dependent on their gardens for their daily sustenance. Please keep them in your prayers!

While 2020 did not go as we had originally planned, nonetheless, we were able to accomplish our primary goals. Also, we are continuing to have success with our Monday night program for part time students. We were also able to start a Saturday program in the West and have 11 committed men to that program. It is taught every other Saturday in Lautoka and Nadi.

We continue to thank you for your kind words of encouragement, your prayers, and your generosity. God continues to bless the work here in spite of the challenges. We give Him the glory and the praise!

Rocco Pierce

Director of the Bible Institute at Raiwaqa

A tribute to Vannak Yeng

My Friend Vannak - The Best Lesson I Never Heard

I always new where my friend Vannak was - all I had to do was listen for a spiritual conversation and look for a big smile. How do I encapsulate my brother and pay tribute to him in a short note? I have many great memories, but none more poignant than The The Best Lesson I Never Heard.

One Sunday afternoon Vannak, myself and a few other brothers in Christ headed out to conduct worship service for a man and his wife and their two very small children who lived on a boat on Tonle Sap Lake about an hours drive from Siem Reap. This young couple had been members of the church for about 6 months and had very little in the way of possessions. We went with intentions of giving them some much needed relief money. The hour long ride gave me time to ask Vannak what his lesson would be about. His reply, “Giving”… I thought to myself “Giving?! Seriously?! These people live in extreme poverty and you're going to preach to them about giving?”

As we arrived at the lake we walked about 300 yards passing by a few boats along the shoreline. Passing by I glanced into the shadows of one and could see some little eyes looking out at me. A few yards further down we entered on to the couples boat and Vannak presented his sermon on giving. I never heard the lesson because it was in their native Khmer language. After the lesson, we all put a little money into the contribution with the intent that the young couple received most of it.

A discussion followed between Vannak and the young man. After some smiles, some hugs and a prayer they took up the collection and walked towards the boat where I had seen the little eyes peering out. Apparently Vannak’s lesson had inspired the young man and his young wife to give all that was on the table to the family in the nearby boat, who were in desperate need of comfort and hope.

In the photos attached you will see Vannak walking with the young brother down to the neighbors boat to give all they had in Christ like service.

I’ll never forget this lesson or the man who delivered it.

Vannak was ready to become one of the first ever elders in Siem Reap but he suddenly passed away last week, leaving behind his wife Puen and three teenage children, Benjamin, David and Sokning. Vannak taught at the International Bible Institute of Siem Reap, Cambodia. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him. However we live in the faith that we will be reunited soon and for all eternity.

Wes Autrey

A big loss in Visakhapatanam

***Less than a day after receiving this report, our beloved Samuel Raju passed from this life and into eternity. He was a kind and gentle man, whose company I always enjoyed. I have many fond (and sometimes funny) memories of my friend and brother. He made the most of his 72 years on this earth and Heaven will be fuller for it. He will be missed greatly by all who knew him, especially by his Bear Valley family. Please remember his family in your prayers. [KK}

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Dear Brethren in Christ,

Greetings in Christ name. By the grace of God we are doing good. We thank you so much for your prayers and emails all this year which made us all be protected and able to continue the mission of Christ in India. This year has been a challenging personally and spiritually too. We praise God for all those who lifted up prayers on our behalf during the corona pandemic, except the loss of few preachers and members of the Church, every one else is safe. Death rate has come done, however the government is kept warning the public about the chance of second wave of Covid-19. If it actually happens not doubt that our government will call for a lock down, we pray things would stay normal. Everything is possible with God.

School Update:

School work is going on good, we are in the last week of this quarter. We shall be breaking for Christmas from this Saturday. Classes will be resumed from 4th of Jan 2021. Attached are the pictures showing the work in Visakhapatnam and this part of Andhra Pradesh, also a picture showing my father. We heard about several baptisms, and witnessed too. Recently visited a group of Graduates who are working together and  we distributed Bibles and Literature to them also financial help provided to those graduates. Tailoring classes also going on to our students, which we show to the government that we are providing trade education or vocational education. People are being added to the Church daily, even though corona situation is still active, churches are still able to meet every Sunday. Of course we were not able to hold lot of gospel meetings and preacher meetings this time, however gospel is being spread every where despite the difficulties, people are embracing Christ every where as a result of our graduates working in several parts of Andhra Pradesh and Orrissa.

Gratitude:

We thank the brethren at Lake Houston Church of Christ and Strickland Church of Christ for their charity in helping the Bear Valley school in Visakhapatnam. We are indeed blessed to have a wonderful relationship of working together for over 10 years, we pray that your leadership would continue to help the preaching school for producing effective ministers of the gospel. We really pray that some day you would visit us to see the Preaching school and also visit the graduates working in this part of Andhra Pradesh. We must thank Jerry & Paula Bates for their portion of encouragement in running the preaching school, we really miss working with them, it is a big loss, hope some of the brethren from the supporting church visit us to teach short courses. We look forward for the mercy of our Lord to continue working together for the years to come.

In Christ,

John Dean M

Doing well in Takoradi

OPERATIONAL REPORT FOR NOVEMBER, 2020

1.      CLASSROOM WORK

Both the regular and part-time classes went on smoothly. All the instructors attended and taught their respective classes.

2.      BEGINNING OF NEXT ACADEMIC YEAR

God willing, the new students for the next academic year will report on January 11, 2021. About twelve (12) men are expected to enroll as the regular students, while seven (7) have expressed interest in the weekend classes. Meanwhile, not everyone in the current part-time class will be completing their course this December. There are five who joined the program later, and so they too will be joined by the new seven (7) who are coming in January 2021. Which means, if God permits, we are going to have twenty-four (24) students for the next academic year. That is, twelve in the regular and twelve in the part-time.

3.      EVANGELISM AND BAPTISM

In the month of November too, there were house to house evangelism activities that went on by some of the past students in their various congregations, which also yielded good fruits through baptism. About ten (10) souls were baptized.

Also, in almost all the sixteen regions of Ghana, we have west Coast past students preaching on radio every week. In Takoradi for instance, we have about ten (10) of our past students preaching on radio stations.

Yours for the Master’s service.

Joshua Aidoo

The Togo school is doing great!

October 2020 Report

We are delighted with everything the eternal has done in the month. It has preserved us from any harm and especially from the pandemic (COVID 19). Twice a month, our school is visited by health workers in order to check if we have hand washing facilities, if the students put on the masks, if 1m distance is respected in order to avoid the spread of the pandemic. At the very beginning of the disease, we were afraid, but now we have courage because no patient with COVID 19 is found in Kpalime.

 On the whole all the activities of the school (BVBI) and Saturday's classes went well.  The activities of the agricultural project continue with the school.

 Evangelization:

The end of the training is approaching and our future evangelists must do a lot of house-to-house experiences with the study and distribution of Bible treatises.

Courses:

Currently here are the courses that students are studying.

1. Number & Deuteronomy (continued): Rodrigue

2. Esdras to Esther (continued): AKLI

3. The Evangelist's Manual: Cephas

4. Psalms (2 part): Cephas

5. Ezekiel (continued): ATTAH

6. Revision on Church Development: AKOVI

7. Geography and Biblical History (continued): AKALO

Computer course:

In the past it was difficult for evangelists to use the computer. With this introductory computer program, our students are able to search the internet and enter their sermons and also make reports. Computer classes are 2 hours every Thursday evening.  First, they are introduced to work and become familiar with: Word (office), excel, internet. They started at the beginning with the PCTAP program, i.e. put their finger on the alphabets on the keyboard. Currently they are learning how to open their email account, and how to search on the net. With the help of the computer, they prepare their sermons and Bible studies and make copies for themselves, in exchange for the simple papers they used to write by hand. They keep the sermons and lectures in the computer. If possible, they want to have a computer after school for use in ministry. This will be a way to prepare and store sermons and studies, as well as use it for correspondence courses.

 Visit to the churches:

The means of transportation during this period COVID 19, motorcycles have been very helpful for students to visit places of worship to teach and encourage members who are afraid to hear the name of COVID 19. Students APEWOKE Koku a brave gatherer of souls, he often and always invited people to church that is every Sunday a couple or 2, 3 visitors cite his name as the one who invited them after a study or a treaty he gave them. He is engaged without children, he wished to make the wedding after the graduation. When an assembly how by decreasing in number he is solicited to help the growth. If there is a prize given for the one who gathers more souls it is him. He was a deacon of the denominational church called "AGAKPE".

Baptisms:

Always the lord adds a soul to his church every month, but this October, there are 3 baptized. The 3 are baptized by AKATA students who go out to study with those they make appointments with on weekends. DEDIXA Koffi, ETSE Koudzou and KPELEVI, organized an evangelization with the church sisters in the village all Saturday from 1 to 4:30 pm. The village has more than 11 denominations. Often a question always comes up when we evangelize: which church is not "the church of Christ? Since for most people there is confusion about the church of Christ.

Special Needs and Challenges:

Our school is growing; the number of graduates is increasing every two years. We need to start thinking differently about the future of our school. I would like the school to have its own land i.e. a land purchased in the name of BVBI, or in the name of GABRIEL CHURCH OF CHRIST and that all the papers be signed by the elders of GABRIEL CHURCH OF CHRIST. This will reduce the rental costs and build the school's classrooms, housing for foreigners (GABRIEL CHURCH OF CHRIST elders, BVBI managers) and other people.  In case of infidelity on the part of the local (Togolese) officials towards the non-respect of the doctrine, GABRIEL CHURCH OF CHRIST has the authorization to confiscate everything, to do what it wants, because it is property. The school must have a bus for multiple services. Note: For this promotion and in the future, I would like to wish that the wives of the students before graduation come to receive instruction on the work of their husbands and the work of a preacher's wife. It is very important because the wife of a preacher must contribute a lot in the development of the church.

 Saturday classes:

Saturday class students are like a nursery that a gardener sets up to help him in the garden. These classes are very beneficial to the Bear Valley Institute. Of course not everyone will be able to reach the BVBI School; this studies help in the conversion of denominations and prepare them for mature Christians. Older men through classes are prepared to serve leaders, teachers and future elders in the churches of Christ in Togo.

Continued progress in northern Ghana

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE, TAMALE

TAMALE, GHANA.

REPORT FOR NOVEMBER 2020

We thank God for taking us through the month of November successfully. We shall forever pay our allegiance to Him and Him alone. We also express our heartfelt gratitude for your prayer and support which has enabled us to work in the Lord’s vineyard with you.

 STUDENTS BACK TO SCHOOL

The students have come back from break to complete the remaining courses that will let them finish the two year program after which they can graduate. Thirteen students have successfully completed and are waiting to be graduated next year God’s willing.

CLASSES

The remaining courses were given fair treatment by teachers assigned with students, class works and exams were also conducted. The book of revelation was taught by brother James Legend Bisong; Christian Ethics by Brother Daniel Adjei Mensah, Inter-Testamental period by Brother Kojo Acquah Beenyi and Counseling by Daniel Adjei Mensah. All the students score sheets and transcripts have been worked on and would be sent to Bear Valley for them to use to prepare certificates for those who qualify for diploma.

ADMINISTRATION

The staff has done its best to administratively run the activities of the school smoothly. As we gear towards the end of the year our main concern is how to get new students. We have already started campaigning for them. Wednesday, 16th of December 2020 is the date we have fixed to interview those we have been able to reach on phone. Those we have not been able to reach on phone we shall find another means to get them so that we can interview them at a later date. We have also talked with the various leaders at Sabunjinda and some nearby communities where we will be going for evangelism in January 2021. We think from Sabunjinda down to Bimbilla will be a fertile ground for evangelism. We can plant new churches and also revive and strengthen old churches in the area.

RENOVATION: Since the construction of the school building for several years now, there has not been any major renovation work on it. The doors and windows nets have all been destroyed. Parts of the ceilings also have been worn out. All the paint has faded. The fence wall needs plastering. As a result, major renovation work has begun.  The nets and ceilings have been fixed and plastering of the fence wall has started. We are yet to begin with the painting of the building. We pray that the Lord will help us to complete all the work.

KPALSI CHURCH: We have started working on the church land to put up a small building for the local congregation in Kpalsi to start worshipping in their own building. Blocks have been made and foundation work has started. In addition, one soul have been baptized in the month of November and added to the church.

DOCUMENTS ON SCHOOL LAND AND SITE FOR WORSHIP:  Coordinator Kojo was here in October to teach, and we made move to the Lands Commission to make a follow up on our documents. Further follow ups have been done and an individual have been assigned by the authorities to work on our documents and get them completed for us. We are optimistic of getting them as soon as possible.

FUNERALS: The former Director (Joseph Okyere Kwame Baah) of the school passed on on the 21st of September this year and a delegation was sent to represent the school and the local church during his funeral on the 7th of November 2020. Brother Adjei Mensah, current director, Brother Thomas Donzie, secretary to the Governing Board, and Brother James Legend, Instructor and staff of the school made up the delegation. Brothers Albert Malir and George Asante also made it to the late preacher Lot Kwame’s final funeral rite. He was one of the second batch past students. They used the opportunity to campaign for students and also inform the participants about the EXPASION OF BOARD MEMBERS AND INCLUSION of all catchment areas in the three regions and the idea was admitted as good news.

Thank you.

From:  Daniel Adjei Mensah (Director)

More baptisms in Guinea!

Gueckedou, Guinea Bear Valley Bible Institute Activity Operations Report for November 2020

The Director, Staff, Student body and all of us who make up the Gueckedou, Guinea Bear Valley Bible Institute are pleased to submit and share this “Activity Report” for the month of November to you all, our supporters and friends. There were a hand full of activities which occurred during the month under review and for the most part the results were successful. Here are the summaries of those events outlined below under subheadings.

Classroom:  There were 3 majour courses covered during the month of November. These were: Old Testament 2; Life of Christ 2 and Old Testament 3a (Job). Due to the act of unfaithfulness on the part of one students’ wife – a matter still on course, 16 of the 17 students returned from their second quarter – October end break. These are the ones who took the aforementioned courses and the results were very good.

Evangelism: As we went out into various villages strengthening the new congregations, our students especially with the help of Niouma 2 Kamano, a staff member were able to convert a total of 6 persons - 3 of which were baptized in Gueckedou.

In addition, we had gone out into new villages not only to evangelize, but to pre-announce a special gospel campaign surrounding the village of Bandalo-leh where the Niceville church had put up a worship hall - scheduled for inauguration on Saturday, the 21st November. The outcome of those special combined events are detailed in our next subheading namely-

Campaign/Worship Hall Inauguration: Preceded by a 2 days preaching in and around the village of Bandalo-leh where the church was planted since May 2018, the Bear Valley team along with the church members succeeded in assembling an audience of some 250 invitees for a public preaching and the inauguration of the worship hall in that village. There were 3 speakers for the following topics: (1) Why Should One Be a Member of the Church of Christ? (2) How can one be Saved According to the New Testament? And (3) How Should We Acceptably Worship God Today? Each of the preaching was followed by a question-answer period. Finally, we concluded by a brief act of inauguration. The program was successful and 6 of those who worshiped with us the next day, Sunday, the 22nd of November 2020 were baptized!

Agriculture Update: Even though all the preliminaries had been put in place there were still some obstacles hindering the progress of the agriculture work. Healing Hands had introduce us to Ebenezer, the brother in charge of the training and we have been in contact to settle nearly all that is required before the training. But until now the border closure due to the Covid - 19 pandemic followed by the high tensions of presidential elections in our country in September and especially October were the main obstacles.

However, the well itself which had been drilled since last May is being used to serve the nearby community. One Madam Youmbouno and her family who live some 200 kilometers are the main beneficiaries who fetch the water. Also we have just received the Agric-kit from the trainer who has planned to later visit Gueckedou after a virtual workshop this December.

Dining Hall Repair: Our dining hall is a temporal – wooden shelter built on wooden poles which are often eaten by termites thus demanding changes. This time around it has become a necessity and we were obliged to replace the sticks with at least 2 iron ones.

Vehicle Repair: During November we had a lot of movement also with the vehicle especially during the campaign – the pre-inauguration week. And with the bad roads, vehicle repairs were necessary and successfully done.

Conclusion: The month of November had some obstacles hindering some of our activities, but because of your prayers and material support all of it came up successful. Our special thanks and appreciations to the Niceville, Florida CoC through the benevolent hand of Brother Ken Stanley for the worship hall constructed at Bandalo-leh where a graduate of our first batch is serving. Let the Niceville church be sure that Brother Michel and his congregation at Bandalo-leh are most grateful! That inauguration exercise together with our evangelism efforts resulted to a total of 12 conversions in November.

May the Lord heal, protect and bless us all.

Francis

2 camps upcoming in Tanzania

The ACSOP Weekly Report,

December 12, 2020

Dear Co-Laborer,

"Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. “Greetings in Tanzania are very important. Many local people spend several minutes greetings one another. My observation is that Americans are more task-oriented and Tanzanians more focused on following protocol and are friendlier to others for the most part. 

 "Let no man despise your youth..." Next Monday will bring to an open the 15th Annual Future Preachers Training Camp, whereby we are expecting a number of 70 or above young men (ages 12-25) will attend and will be taught how to compose and deliver a sermon, lead prayers, and lead singing. This camp, begun by Roger Shepherd of Montgomery, AL, is now being conducted by the Tanzanian Christians. This type of growth is very encouraging.           

Tanzania Christian Camp. After the FPTC we will conduct TCC at the Andrew Connally School of Preaching. This camp is going to have a combination of females and males youth. We are expecting to have a number of more than 150 youth attending. 

"I thank my God upon every remembrance of you..."You, our supporters, are the "life-blood" of this work of God. “You "are at every program we contact here in ACSOP. "You" are at the new churches being planted and "You" go with every student from ACSOP as he graduates to spread the Gospel in new areas. Thank you for your confidence and support.

With Love From East Africa,

Losotwa Michael,

ACSOP, dean of academics

Online in Ukraine

Greetings, dear brothers and sisters in Christ,  

Thank God nobody in the church was seriously hurt by the pandemic and the brethren who were infected are all better now. 

In November all classes in our Bible Institute were online. The numbers of sick people were climbing up every day and we decided not to put anybody at risk, neither students nor Instructors. The Government announced closed doors policy for all educational institutions and noncompliance was punishable by fines. In the beginning of December, the situation slightly improved and some restrictions were lifted. So we are cautiously making plans to return to the classrooms during the last weeks of December. 

Online studies had some advantages as well. We were still connected in spite of the ban for gatherings and other people from different regions of Ukraine could join our studies. These guests were very encouraging to our students.  

Thus, last month our second year students had the Book of Acts (Instructor Vladimir Paziy, the preacher from Kramatorsk) and 1 and 2 Thessalonians (Dennis Sopelnik). 

We are working on the next school year recruitment. We have found a few people who would like to join the program next year. However, they are not fully committed because of the fear of the virus. It's a challenge for us but we are not giving up and continuing the Lord's work. 

Last weekend my family went to Lviv. The local congregation celebrated its first 5 years. Moreover, the congregation was established by three families who had been our graduates. I was very proud to see the Lord's work in the city. It's the largest city in the Western Ukraine but there was no congregation of the Church of Christ there before 2015. And now they have 20 members congregation. One of the ministers there is our Instructor as well. God keeps working through our faithful brethren.   

We are thankful to all of you who support our ministry. We appreciate your prayers and financial help.  

May God guard and keep you safe.  

Your brother, Dennis Sopelnik 

Evangelism opportunities in Cameroon

Calvary greetings from this part of the universe. We are in Mbanga Balong, in Cameroon, and in central Africa. We are glad to be alive this day, strong and healthy for some are incapable.

We praise Jehovah God for taking us this far. The end of year is quite near and lots of things are ongoing. We want to beg for your prayers as our students and staff will going for field work and we will be campaigning for the next batch of students as we go as well. We bring our report to you this day. It will be the last for this year as we proceed to 2021 by his grace. All roads are leading to Wotutu for the end of coursework graduation ceremony as we also prepare for our own in Manga next march. But, so far, we are doing fairly well, even thou with some ups and downs.

The students and staff just finished this 7th quarter with no major difficulties. We also took the short course on the book of Hebrews. We ended with a short course taught by Ename Paul, minister with the Bertoua town assembly. It was pleasant to study the book of Hebrews. In his nature, as it is, He took 6 days to exegete the book with a written part on Saturday in the evening. All of the students were able to make it with green (flying) colors. 

The students had a course on “African Traditional Religion.” This is a course we brought in as we use this to study some traditions and culture of the people in order for us to know how to penetrate these areas of work. The case study was that of West Africa.

We took some time off to go into the field and visited some of these fons (chiefs) and their royalty in order for them to tell us what their tradition is all about. It was a great trip, as we are planning to move this course from being just an elective course to becoming a part of the curriculum in the nearby future. 

To make marks, it was exactly one year ago that we organized the annual conference in Mbanga. We still want to say thank you to all who supported the hosting of the annual last year. We successfully traveled safely to Bangante this year for the annual lectureship with both the students and members of the congregation.

The church in Mbanga and the students also welcomed a new born baby in church. The student from Chad whose name is Josuè presented his newborn baby with his wife Leah. The two of them came but today they are 3. More blessings should accompany this family.

We offer a special end of year greeting from the church in Mbanga to the sister assemblies all over the globe. We love you all. May God bless you this end of 2020.

From your servants in Mbanga,

ITITI BENEDICT AND MARY.

Happy New Year in advance. Thanks

Graduation upcoming in Wotutu

Dearest in Christ,

Greetings from this part of the globe. We are alive. Some are strong and some are not, but in any situation, we give glory to God. We are thanking God for all He has been able to do for us and keeping us through the year 2020. We are very grateful for all your prayers and support that help to keep the work going.

Last week in Bear Valley Wotutu, Cameroon, things went on well. We are done with short courses and are now we are moving towards graduation. That is why this report is dedicated for graduation information. All 17 students who will be graduating are prepared except for brother Atem Prisco who is having severe problems with his kidney. He is on dialysis now. That is why all this while he has been in the hospital in Buea. Please keep him in your prayers.

Graduation comes up this Thursday. Valedictory night is on Wednesday. We will inform you as to what happened on graduation day as we report next Sunday. Keep us in your prayers and keep praying for these men and their families as they go into the wilderness.

 APPRECIATIONS

Our hearts are filled with happiness for all that you are doing for us and the work. We have successfully trained 97 graduates as of now. We shall give details of our work. After 10 years of training men and their families to preach the saving message, we are very grateful and we pray God bless you and open doors for you as we start with the Zeta batch come January 2021.Thanks for all. We were blessed in every step we made while walking with Christ and walking with you. All the glory goes to Him.

Elangwe and family

By His grace Director of BVBIC-Wotutu.