Gweru, Zimbabwe school trains their students to be self-sufficient

                                                                NOVEMBER 2022 NARRATIVE REPORT

INTRODUCTION

We remain grateful to God for what the school was able to do in the month. Classes progressed well without much of a challenge. Evangelism and projects continued as well. These and more are covered hereunder.

CURRICULUM PROGRESS  

The following subjects are being done this term; Prison Epistles, Hermeneutics, Sign Language, Music, Galatians, Christian Evidence, Horticulture, Homiletics, Books of History, Acts, and 1 & 2 Thessalonians. Most of the subjects were completed successfully. Great appreciation for the teachers and students for the effort put in.  

EVANGELISM

Evangelism efforts usually reach a climax through our annual field practice. This field program ended in October with the graduation of the previous class. The current class which is in its second term will begin its evangelism efforts next term through weekend evangelism. Currently, however, the class is servicing 3 congregations namely; Lot 64, Shurugwi, and Plasworth. Congregations that wish to benefit from this program have an opportunity to be served as well. 

PROJECTS AND FOOD SECURITY

The school is running the following projects; goat project, layers project, broilers project, and market gardening. This month we report on the maize project and market gardening. 

MAIZE AND BEANS

The school was able to plant a hectare of maize when the first rains fell in November. We had targeted to plant 2-3 hectares but funds to purchase inputs had been elusive. Our harvests in the past two seasons had not enabled the school to buy maize. The school had enough for its kitchen needs whilst some ended up being used for the poultry project without much of a challenge. We also hope to plant about 2 acres of beans in January.

SWEET POTATOES

Sweet potatoes were also planted in the month. Planting of this crop will continue as there are no costs involved. Depending with the harvest, If there will be more, the excess can be sold. 

MARKET GARDENING

Progress continued to be made in our horticulture projects. Tomatoes, cabbages, onions, and lettuce were sold in the month. Tomatoes could not fetch much as the market was flooded with them. Besides benefitting extra income from the sales and food for the students, the students are also learning life survival skills. 

Towards the end of November, more tomatoes, cucumbers, and butternuts were planted. 

WHERE ARE THEY?

In the next few months, we shall be tracing the whereabouts of our graduates. This month we begin with Takudzwa Chikuni who began his studies with the school in 2018 and completed his course in 2020. Takudzwa went on to graduate in October 2021. He enrolled as one of the youngest students the school ever had. His zeal for the work is contagious and unquestionable. He is both a powerful speaker and song leader. Soon after leaving school and prior to his graduation, during the Covid era, he went to his home area of Maware in Chivhu where he became a full-time preacher for the congregation. He was working under the late Abednego Mugweni. During this time he was being partly supported by Dr. Campion Mugweni whilst at the same time getting income from gardening and having a small grocery shop at the Maware business center. 

Takudzwa transferred to Sharara church of Christ, a rural congregation, in January 2022 and got married to his wife Tanatswa Tania Muromba in March 2022. He went to Sharara to replace another seasoned preacher Damson Siwedi who had moved to Mupudzi Church of Christ some months before. Takudzwa and his wife are happily working together for Christ. Apart from preaching the gospel in the Sharara area, he teaches Family and Religious studies at Sharara Secondary school. In terms of life survival skills, Takudzwa has continued with his garden project, runs a small grocery shop for the community, and has added a road runner (free range) chicken project to the mix. This summer season, he and his wife have already planted one hectare of maize for their sustainability. Soon after joining the Sharara Church of Christ, Takudzwa mobilized resources from the brotherhood in an attempt to extend the church building. This has been a success. Besides this, he has been able to run several programs including a lectureship for the congregation. The young man is blooming in a rural setting and the work is growing. The congregation has an average attendance of 150 people.

 CONCLUSION

When all is said and done, we continue to thank God for what he continues to do through BVBIZ and through your support financially, morally, and spiritually. We continue to see progress in the students, the graduates, and the fulfillment of the curriculum requirements. Thank you all and may God continue to bless you abundantly.

Accra school conducts funeral for former student

END OF November Report, 2022

To God once again be the glory and honor for a successful end of the month. Below is a summary of school activities in the month of November

Academic Activities

Two short courses have been completed by the brothers Amoo Gyimah and Gyan Mante. Brother Jerry Bates also held a master's class that lasted two weeks. We are very thankful to God for his safe arrival and departure.

School Building 

Workers on the school building project have commenced and have progressed to lintel when Bro Kojo Acquah and Sammy visited. The work is hoped to continue till the end of the year.

Campaign for Christ

Students organized a gospel campaign that involved public preaching evangelism. This came off successfully as I reported in my previous report for October.

 Funeral Ceremony

The funeral ceremony of the late brother and former students Adams Quashie was successfully held on 19th November. Our students and staff were present and a donation was given to the children for their relief. We hope to meet our brother again in Heaven.

Acknowledgment

We give much glory to God for a successful month and term. We also express our gratitude to the management of the Bear Valley Bible Institute USA for their support both physically and spiritually. We glorify God because of the efforts of all the members of the staff and implore many blessings from God on them.

These are updates for the month. We request that you keep praying with us.

 Reported by: E.O. Larbi

Todd Crayton visits Mbanga

The steadfastness of the Lord never ceases, and his mercies never come to an end. They are renewed every morning. May the almighty God bless this day and new month. We pray that He also blesses the mind of the support team.

The work in Mbanga is going on well as we, the students and staff, are doing pretty well. At this moment we are making plans to attend the graduation ceremony in Wotutu. We will then move to about 14 assemblies for the final evangelism campaign and internship as this fourth batch of students in Mbanga will graduate in March. We commit them in our prayers, especially now as traveling these days is very difficult. Let us continue to pray for journey mercies for everyone.

This quarter has been very challenging as we have had plenty of activities. We also had the visitations of Elder Todd Crayton and coordinator David Ballard. It was good to have them in Cameroon again after about a 3-year absence due to Covid 19. We thank God for preserving their lives and the lives of many Christians both in Cameroon and abroad.

Their trip to Cameroon was motivating to both the students and the staff. It was a reminder of our formal slogan, “God is with us, we are never alone.” We know that God is always with us as well as our big Christian family abroad. Their mission was successful. You can see sister Mary, the wife of the director of BVBIC-MBANGA, putting on her smile. A lot of time was taken to observe how the instructors teach the students. Brother Todd and brother David were very happy with our staff. After that, it was time to observe how the students had received the transfer of knowledge.

Our last mission trip and internship was also great, as we sent our students to 12 different assemblies, including a congregation at Yaounde. It was successful as the feedback from the hosting preachers was encouraging. Most of the students were approved to go, and were ready to get to the field for zealous and religious work to be done.

God, through this mission added 12 souls, and 3 were restored back to the Lord. We seek for lost souls to bring into the kingdom of God. "Our mission is evangelism and evangelism is our mission." 

The Moungo Zonal Lectureship was also successful. The Mbanga assembly hosted the last edition of the Moungo Zonal Preacher’s Forum which brought up the idea of pulpit exchange. I therefore, was at Bomono preaching in a small, but very old assembly along the Mbanga Douala road.

The fourth batch of students shall be going out again for another internship and evangelism campaign after taking their short course on the book of Hebrews and also the women taking the course “Essentials Doctrine.” It was great to have these powerful instructors giving out their best to transfer knowledge to the students. 

Here is the combination of students and their wives after they had taken the last part of their short course. Some of them had new born babies and some are still pregnant. What a blessing it is to have these great people in our midst. 

The instructors of the Bear Valley Bible Institute Cameroon – Mbanga also paid a condolence visit to director Elangwe who lost his father in the month of October. We went officially, to comfort our own brother and colleague who lost his father, for we constitute one family.   

We shall resume classes in January and be preparing for the up-coming graduation   March 2023. May God continue to bless us all, as we promise to update you again.

The field is ripe but the laborers are few. 

 Remain blessed.

Your humble servant Ititi Benedict

More baptisms in Lesotho

Greetings from BVBI Lesotho. Thank you for your prayers, Lesotho held peaceful, and harmonized elections on the 7th of October. The country has a new government and we pray it will rebuild the collapsed economy.

Three courses were taught from September to November. In September, Tawanda taught the book of Romans and 8 students attended. In October, 10 students were taught Church History by Tawanda, while 9 students attended Congregational Development in the subsequent month. Brother Robert is expected to teach the book of Revelation in the month of December.

In this reporting period the attendance of students was lower than other months. The reason being, 2 of our students are active soldiers, they had promotional training for more than 2 months, hence, they could not attend the classes. Another student got a new job which requires him to be at work during the weekends. While the other student is nursing her mother in-law who is critically ill. As BVBIL we pray for her mother in-law’s full measure of health so that the student will come back to class.

3 baptisms were recorded and a soul restored to Christ. Among the 3 souls is an 83 year old lady. As a school we are grateful to participate in what God is doing in Lesotho. Continue to pray for the success of the school

An outstanding class of students in Zimbabwe

OCTOBER 2022 NARRATIVE REPORT

INTRODUCTION

October was a month filled with various activities at Bear Valley Bible Institute-Zimbabwe. It was a month to remember for many students and congregations as they parted with students who were doing their practical. It was a month when BVBIZ started her first ever Preachers’ Retreat and graduation lecture and fundraising program. These and many other issues are covered in this report.

1.0  EVANGELISM

BVBIZ did their practical from June to October. Another practical was done last year besides weekend evangelism programs, one week campaigns each term and holiday preaching. In 2022, students did their practical in the following congregations Mupudzi, Zvishavane, Hatcliff, Chivero, Acturus, Highfield, Ziko, Manyame, Mbembesi, Sipaba, Lot 64, Mutawatawa, Triangle, Shurugwi, Derembwe, Concession and Nhedziwa. Great appreciation goes to these congregations for hosting the students and partnering the school in this training dimension. The highlights of the program are that 3 congregations began during this period. In total there were 59 conversions and 19 restorations. The following statistics from June to October summaries the program;

Total hours put in                     2916

Sermons preached (church)     148

Sermons preached (funerals)   8

Devotions conducted               397

Bible classes taught                 105

Baptisms                                  59

Restorations                             19

Prospects                                  1683

Counselling sessions               48

Hospital visitations                  27

WBS courses distributed         1290

Tracts distributed                      2739

Congregations started              3

2.0 PREACHERS RETREAT

The school held its first ever PREACHER’S RETREAT from the 26th -28th of the month. The theme of the retreat was “REST A WHILE.” The event was organized by a committee composed of preachers in the field and a staff representative. The idea is to encourage preachers to avoid burnout.  The preachers were treated to a time out at a resort closer to the school. Some sporting activities also took place during the outing. Lessons were also given in an attempt to encourage and empower the preachers.

3.0 2022 GRADUATION

3.1 GRADUATION LECTURE

BVBIZ’s first ever graduation lecture took place on the 29th of October. The presenter was Dr. Paul Shupikai Chimhungwe, the vice principal of a College in Botswana. The topic was; THE PROBLEM OF EVIL: WHY ARE THE MAJORITY OF THE CHURCH OF CHRIST PREACHERS IN ZIMBABWE SUFFERING. The presenter dwelt on possible causes of the scourge and proffered some solutions as well. The graduates to-be were to take note of the issues as they go into the field.  The lecture is code named THE ISAIAH SUWARI MEMORIAL Graduation Lecture. The late Isaiah was instrumental in the beginning of the school but passed away just a few days before the opening date. The school is grateful to Dr. P.S. Chimhungwe for the voluntary sacrifice he made in travelling all the way from Botswana to fulfill this task.

3.2 GRADUATION

The graduation proper finally took place on the 29th of October. The event went on smoothly. The guest speakers were Dr. Hailey Velaphi Mlangeni, an elder at Bulawayo Central Church of Christ and Paul Gidden of Woodland Oaks Church of Christ. The following graduated on the day;

Eric Mushonga

Bongani Sithole

Remember Mhlanga

Melody Maseko

Thomas Musongora

Thabani Dlamini

Blessed Marufu

Michael Kasimu

Samandra Kalima

Christopher Mutambirwa

Tinashe Moyana

Tawanda Tinofa

Kudakwashe Simemeza

Method Moyo

Edson Julius

Tonderai Kafile

Isaac Chipendo

Simbarashe Chitanda

3.3 AWARDS

Several students received awards during the graduation ceremony. BVBIZ would like to thank all those who sponsored the awards. Most of these awards are named after their sponsor.

1.      The Raradza Valedictorian Award    (student with highest grades)          Christopher Mutambirwa

2.      Best Female student (female student with the highest grades)                   Samandra Kalima

3.      Most Improved student                                                                               Blessed Marufu

4.      The Nyahada Leadership Award                                                                Tonderai Kafile

5.      The Kufa Barnabas Award        Bongani Sithole; Kudakwashe Simemeza

6.      ALDN Entrepreneurship Award  (The best in life survival skills)   Simbarashe Chitanda, Michael Kasimu

7.      Borrowdale Church of Christ homiletics award   Remember Mhlanga, Christopher Mutambirwa

8.      Languages award (highest grades in Hebrew & Greek)                              Tinashe Moyana

9.      The Marandure Young Timothy Award (best in evangelism)                    Tinashe Moyana

10.  The Partners for Africa Melchizedek Award (The best oldest student)     Edson Julius

11.  The Isaiah Suwari Memorial award (the best visionary student)               Remember Mhlanga

12.  The Gamaliel Award (the best Bible class teacher)                                    Tawanda Tinofa

4.0 A SPECIAL VISIT

BVBIZ was blessed to have Paul Gidden (Missions Committee chairman at Woodland Oaks Church of Christ) and Donnie Estep (the BVBII regional director). They came on the 24th of October and left on the 30th of the same month. The two participated in Retreat activities whilst Donnie, taught Christian Evidences on the 25th and 26.th These two brothers were part of the guest speakers during the graduation ceremony, as well. BVBIZ was left encouraged by this visit and remain thankful to these sacrifices.

5.0 SIGN LANGUAGE TRAINING

From the 22nd to the 25th of October, the first phase of sign language training took place. The teacher was Charles Muzambi, a BVBIZ 2021 graduate who was seconded in 2021 to go for an intensive Sign Language training. BVBIZ continues to push so that every preacher from any school receives such training. Charles is available to help.

6.0 CLASSROOM BLOCK FUNDRAISING UPDATE

On the 1st of October, a fundraising program was held in Harare towards the construction of a classroom block with offices estimated to cost around $35000. Many activities took place including a ,marathon, aerobics, Bible quiz, Business expo among other activities.  The following transpired

Total money raised $3025

Total expenses $1414.22

Total Money in hand $1072

Total money pledged $539

7.0 PROJECTS

BVBIZ always seeks to do its part locally to raise an extra dollar so as to meet its budgetary needs. Projects are part of the strategy. The sale of broilers and eggs from the layers project continued in the month though the price of eggs is currently subdued. A small tuckshop continues to make a difference. Products from our garden continued to be sold as well. The produce includes lettuce, cabbages, cucumbers and tomatoes.

8.0  DONATIONS

The school continues to welcome donations in whatever form. We continue to thank the Chirenda Family for its consistent support to the school ($100 monthly). The gesture continues to make a huge difference in the school.

8.1  LAYERS PROJECT

The school received $100 towards the layers project from a Woodland Oaks church of Christ member. The money will be a huge contribution towards the much needed fowl run for the layers. About $750 is needed to construct the fowl run. The room currently housing the layers is small and has a detrimental effect on production. The ventilation is inadequate as well.

8.2 BICYCLES

Bicycles are the mode of transport for students going for evangelism during weekends. The maximum distance that students travel  is 32km (to and fro).  The school has not been able to service a number of congregations due to the lack of bicycles to use. The two bicycles that the school had before have had constant repairs due to over use and were no longer reliable. Great appreciation goes to Partners for Africa for donating 3 bicycles towards this cause. 6 more are needed for an effective evangelism effort

8.3 WIFI

One of the challenges BVBIZ has been having for some time is the lack of internet.  Wifi routers from various network providers had failed to work due to poor network. The only option was the installation of a satellite dish. Great appreciation goes to Woodland Oaks Church of Christ, through Paul Gidden, for providing $600 for this installation.

CONCLUSION

The words of Paul in Philippians 4.8 may be ideal to end this report. They capture many amazing things the month of October brought to BVBIZ. Finally brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honourable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise,  think about these things. To God be the glory!.

Good work in Lagos!

SABO ONIBA/LAGOS ISLAND CENTERS REPORT September - October 2022.

INTRODUCTION: Election comes and goes but the impact of those elected remains generational. Congratulations to our American brethren for the successful midterm election this year. Hope we have brethren elected to different offices in your country? We pray for brethren elected to be given divine wisdom driven by purposeful objectives as they shine as light in the darkest world that we are in today worldwide. Nigeria needs your prayer too as we are in a transition period waiting for our election coming up in March next year. The forthcoming election may make or mar our nation. Your prayer is highly coveted this time.

The last two months were filled with activities ranging from a visit to Owerri for the Opening Ceremony of the new Study Center to a Campaign trip to Ekiti and Discipleship training in different locations. The online WBS work is not left out.

ACADEMIC ACTIVITIES IN SABO-ONIBA/LAGOS ISLAND: Sabo-Oniba is moving significantly in its studies. Gbenga Ilori took the Book of Matthew while Mfon Etim taught them Old Testament 1 last month. In Lagos Island, James Luka took the Pastoral Epistles and Augustine Ani took 1 Corinthians. Lagos Island will be concluding its program this time next year hopefully.

INSTRUCTORS WORK: Adewuyi Olufemi used three months in teaching the Theme: Working Closely With God in Satellite church, while I used the same time in teaching Ifako-Iyaiye in the Principles of Discipleship. Bro Egure, Samuel Moses, Victor Fashanu, and I spent three days in Ondo Town church doing the same training.  

CAMPAIGN PROGRAM/MARKET EVANGELISM: 10 of Sabo-Oniba students with two staff were part of the team that spent 4 days in Aramoko Ekiti for a campaign. It was a great time spreading the news of the kingdom. Three souls were brought into the faith and 2 brethren were restored into the fold. It was a good time together and a time for restrengthening the young minister working with that congregation.  

LAGOS WBS WORK: We are still in the process of the Lagos WBS office taking off we hope to have a congregation to work with soonest.

Lagos Team Work: In progress

Online Students Activities: 67

Under Follow Up: 0

Competed Lessons: 5032

Certificates Awarded: 1273

Baptism:  3

CONCLUSION: Once again, thanks to all for praying for our work here and we also appreciate you all supporting the work here. The work is going on greatly.

Thanks and God bless you all.

TIM IWE (Self Made Slave for Christ)

Sabo Oniba/Lagos Island Center Director

Mark Reynolds teaches in Uganda

Brethren,

Grace to you and peace from God our father and the lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God always, making mention of you in my prayers because of your great love and of faith which you have to word the lord Jesus and the saints worldwide. I pray that the fellowship of your faith may become more and more effective through the knowledge of every good thing which is in you for Christ sake.

The last quarter of our first intake was a blessing, having started it with brother Mark Reynolds. This man of God is a Barnabas is this great work of training preachers. His class was so nice and lively. On additional to that, I myself never wanted to say goodbye to brother Mark.

We are just but on our last courses soon mean are finishing. Joyful I am glad to announce to you that we are going to have our first graduation on 06th January 2023 which will be a Friday. In this I continue to ask and request that let's share the joy of our first fruits at Bear Valley Uganda.

It will give me joy to see you brothers having come and make this a success. Men are very happy and more courageous to go out for the course of the gospel. Am glad to let you know that we have a good number of 18 students who will be joining for the second intake come 06th February 2023. Pray for the work and the men who are planning to come.

May God bless you all.

Until all have heard

Raymond

Graduation in Zimbabwe

HARARE EXTENSION UPDATE

INTRODUCTION

Bear Valley Bible Institute Zimbabwe continue to grow, make a difference and leave a mark in the life of the church in Zimbabwe. The Harare Extension School likewise, continue to make strides in its quest to train men and women for ministry and adding manpower at the local congregation.

GRADUATION - SEPTEMBER 2018 CLASS

In September 2018 eleven men and two women enrolled for the program. They started on a high note and together we set out for the learning journey. Along the way seven fell by the wayside and come October 29, 2022, six graduated from that class plus one who failed to graduate last year, graduated in Gweru. A moment of praise to God the Almighty and a thanksgiving moment to the graduates for the commitment and dedication till the end.

Among the achievements received we are happy that the Best Leadership Award and the Barnabas Award (given to one who managed to be an inspiration and encourager) were given to Tonderal Kafile (see Photo 4); Edson Julius (aged 54) was given the Melchizedek Award (an award given to the eldest student who couldn’t let age be a barrier in his quest to study). Some who also received awards are Kudakwashe Simemeza and Simbarashe Chitanda.

RESEARCH PAPERS

The graduates also managed to write research papers as part of their learning and below were their topics:

1.         Simbarashe Chitanda (an entrepenuer) - Sustainable Approach to the Support of Preachers in the Churches of Christ in Greater Harare.

2.         Isaac Chipendo - An Analysis of Causes and Effects of Drug and Substance Abuse Amongst Youths In Chitungwiza

3.         Edson Julius (works for Chivero Orphanage) - The Impact of Ethical Misconduct Among Churches of Christ Leaders: A Case of Chingwere Church of Christ in Mhondoro

4.         Tonderai Kafile (an Assistant Inspector in the Zimbabwe Republic Police) - The Impact of the Church of Christ in the Uniformed Forces: A Case Study of Makoni District, Manicaland Province, Zimbabwe

5.         Method Moyo (a qualified music teacher) - The Role of Music in Church Development: A Case of Highfield Church of Christ in Harare

6.         Kudakwashe Simemeza (an entreprenuer). His topic choice was influenced by his own life and marraige - The Effects of Interdenominational Marriages to Church Growth

7.         Tawanda Tinofa - Exploring Factors Affecting Church Growth: A Case of Churches of Christ in Harare

SEPTEMBER 2021 CLASS

This class started with seventeen students, with four being ladies. Currently seven men and two ladies form the class. They are doing their lessons during weekends (two weekends per month) and we also introduced a ten day continuous learning period held in April, August and December in Gweru. This December the class will run from the 05th to the 18th of December.

Courses done to this end are:

Old Testament Law/Pentateuch                        Denominational Doctrines

How We Got the Bible                                           Music

Scheme of Redemption

Personal Evangelism

Public Speaking

Life of Christ (Synoptic Gospels)

New Testament Church

The students are as follows:

Kware Douglas                            Nhamo Mandebvu                    Masarakufa Witness

Manjeya                                        Wilbert Manyati                         Muhura Nyevero (F)

Suwari Philip                                Nyahuye Maxwell                      Fadzai Kufa (F)

APPRECIATION

Our sincere gratitude to Bear Valley Bible Institute International for the work in Zimbabwe. Your partnership is always applauded and thank you.

A total of eighteen graduates have been produced by the school and we are so thankful and proud of contributing such workers into the LORD’S vineyard.

Brother Keith and Brother Donnie, the foot soldiers on the front, we are so thankful for working with us and physically being here. Thank you fellow soldiers in Christ.

APPEAL FOR PRAYERS

We always appeal for your prayers. Life in Zimbabwe is tough and not pleasant at all. The state of the economy continue to cause problems and challenges for us the ordinary citizens.

It was announced that the elections for 2023 will be held in July or August and the political environment is sliding into the tense mode as seen by the violent trends taking place now. Help us pray for peace, harmony and love.

We sincerely appeal for your prayers. May God help us.

CONCLUSION

As we continue to serve God through the school we commit ourselves to the cause of the Cross and we appeal for your prayers for the work we are doing.

The gospels studied in depth in Lagos

We praise the Lord for the conclusion of the third quarter of July to September of the year 2022. We are much grateful to the Lord and appreciate the effort, prayers, and support of the brethren for the progress of the Agege School. May the good Lord restore in abundance all that you have spent on the school in Jesus name, amen!

CLASS ACTIVITIES / COURSES DONE DURING THE QUARTER

1. Life of Christ in the book of Matthew taught by Gbenga Ilori in the month of July, 2022.

2. Life of Christ according to Luke taught by Emmanuel Chukwuka Odo.

3. Life of Christ in Mark taught by Okoro Chinyere.

CAMPAIGN ACTIVITIES

To mark the end of the quarter, we went on campaign at Aboru area of Lagos state where plans are on top gear to plant a new congregation.

STUDENT'S PROFILE / STUDENT OF THE QUARTER

NAME: Onifade Olayemi John.

DATE OF BIRTH: 13/02/1981

He attends OPE-ILU CHURCH OF CHRIST

BAPTIZED: 2015

STATE OF ORIGIN: Abeokuta, Ogun State.

RESIDENCE: 9, Olanrewaju Street, Ope-ilu, Agbado-Ijoko Road, Ogun State.

CONCLUSION

The above report was the activities that went on during the third quarter of the year 2022. We are so much pleased and thankful to everyone, the effort you have put into the progress of the Agege weekend school: the funds, study materials, prayers, and all forms of support rendered to us.

Much appreciation goes to Chad Wagner, Keith Kasarjian, and the Management of Bear Valley Bible Schools, the supporting churches, the teaching staff, and everyone who helped in this regard this year.

May 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.

Report by Odo, Emmanuel Chukwuka of Bear Valley Bible Institute, Agege, Lagos.

More reached for Jesus in Togo

I thank God for his mercy. The month of September is marked by meetings for the retraining of evangelists and students. As we are nearing the end of the students' training for two, we are planning lectures in the evenings of November and December after classes so that students can master the tool of "how to prepare and present a thesis to an audience". The emphasis is currently more on practicing everything we have studied over the two years. To motivate everyone to do better: they are organized into two groups (group A and group B). They have to work together so that after the training they can and should always work together and no one considers himself a leader in the group, but show them that everyone needs to cooperate with each other to be stronger to save more souls.

Each group must work with four assemblies and note the weaknesses that exist according to the group and how to improve the work on their assemblies. This is an exercise that awakens the students in their service to the assemblies that they will plant and lead in all the places where they will establish themselves. Those who are from the Atakpalime environment work with their churches and the students are the churches of their environment.

Course:

Last quarter's courses:

1. 1,2 Timothy and Titus: Akovi Hope/Cephas

2. Ezekiel: ATTAH

3. Comparative religion: Rodrigue

4. Job and Psalms : ATTAH

5. Biblical History and Geography : AKALO

6. Exodus: AKLI

7. Marriage and Family: Cephas

The course will end in December 2022.

Evangelism:

The localities of FIOKPO are for this month, a place of evangelization and support for the people of Kpadape, AVOUZEKOME and AGOGOME. The evangelization by students on Fridays allowed a restoration of the couples AVOUDUFU JEAN and his wife, Kossi and his wife who all had a concern on: "why the instruments are not used today in the churches of Christ?" a brother had left the church in Lome for service reasons and did not know the church was in the village where he was serving as a laboratory worker. Thanks to the evangelism by the students, brother KOWOUVI found his church.

Baptized:

The work of the students assisted by the evangelist Apewoke Koku, Honku Mawunyo and Amenoutor Daniel gave enough fruits for this month. A total of 4 baptisms whose images are accompanied by the attached report.

Radio:

For this quarter, the local authorities (traditional chiefs and some parents) who follow our programs every Wednesday, went to the radio to make a complaint by proposing the themes: the education of children, morality and youth. These are the subjects we are currently teaching for the last months of the year.

New school success

Precious greetings from Jalingo Taraba state in the name of our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ. We return glory to God for his mercy and grace that is sustaining the school and the work over here.

We have started the second quarter in July, Hermeneutics, Discipleship, and the book of Acts were taught by Elkanah Itom Madaki, Stephen Ume, Bala Ebgwakute respectively. The classes went smoothly without any hitches.

We thank God for the successful visit of brother Keith Kasarjian the Director International Studies in month of July. His coming actually was encouraging and helpful. It also gives us sense of belonging.

Brother Francis Awodoyi, a university Deann from a neighbouring state also visited the school for four weeks and took the students on Christian Psychology.

We are soliciting for your prayers towards our forthcoming campaign for Christ in the month of December. During the period review, we recorded two baptism and one of them is my daughter. Our weekend evangelism has continued to strengthen weak congregations and many people were reached with the word.

Elkanah Itom Madaki

Doing the best they can in Ukraine

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

We are looking forward to the end of this year hoping that the peace will return and our lives will be back to normal. For the most important warfare news I'd like to mention the following:

1. The Ukrainian army keeps on liberating the occupied territories even though the full liberation is still in the distant future.

2. The Russian army strikes our civilian infrastructure with their missiles daily blowing up our power and gas stations.

3. The  country lives with regular blackouts when both electricity and the natural gas used for heating are in short supply.

Now we know how to be inside the building with no heating even when it's 17 degrees outside.  Most importantly though is that the people are learning to be thankful and pray without ceasing for peace and the end of the war. I have complete assurance that God keeps it all in control.

The Bible Institute.

The studies are still taking place in Chernivtsy. We are aware of the urgency of training the preachers and the leaders for the Lord's kingdom. This month our students had the 1st and 2nd Thessalonians (Instructor - Vladimir Paziy). And the students had a time of evangelical practice in a few cities simultaneously (Chernivtsy, Lviv and Kyiv). They studied and taught the lessons, sermons, distributed the Christian tracts and literature. Some of them went to the orphanage and studied with the teenagers.

Bila Tserkva church of Christ.

We are still ministering to the refugees and their needs. This month we gave away many grocery packages, pillows, blankets, warm clothes and helped people to pay their rent. It's a lot of work to assist with people's needs. The congregation is actively involved in the social work and it gives us the opportunity to talk more about Christ and the salvation through Him. Every week we have people asking for help. Some of them can live in the church building if they can't find anything to rent right away. It's a tremendous blessing to serve as God's hands and be a part of helping the needy.  Thanks to the help of many American brethren we own a great generator in the church building. It means people can get warm in here and charge their phones even if the electricity supply system of the whole country is destroyed.

We are very grateful to you for your prayers and financial help to us in Ukraine during these difficult times. God is merciful and caring towards us.

Your brother,

Dennis Sopelnik

More progress in Guinea

Introduction

In order to maintain a good collaboration, there must of necessity be a good communication. That is why we at the Bear Valley extension lnstitute in Gueckedou report to the International school the results of our activities at the end of each month. Now for the month of November 2022, you will see below the activities carried out by the Gueckedou, Guinea school.

Teaching / Classroom

In 1 Corinthians 11 :1 Paul tells us to « be imitators of me as I am of Christ » and later in Acts 19 :9 we learn that Paul taught daily in the school of a man named Tyrannus. In this same spirit, the Bear Valley Extension School in Gueckedou teaches students daily for edification. During the 30 days of November we had the following 4 lessons taught : 

1- Old Testament 2 – History By Saa Robert Kamano

2- Life of Christ 1 – Matthieu by Antoine Fassa Tolno

3- Godhead, french by Niouma 2 Kamano

4- The New Testament Church 1 (One True Church) by Antoine Fassa Tolno

Evangelism

In order to multiply disciples, the Lord has commanded us to go all over the world preaching the good news and baptizing those who will believe for their eternal salvation. In obedience to this commission we have adopted several methods in the process including mass evangelism, door-to-door and public evangelism. Thus, it is our pleasure to inform you that the results of these different methods mentioned above yielded a satisfactory result because 20 persons accepted Jesus Christ as their savior and were born again in the waters of baptism.

Of this total;

 2 souls are from the village congregations of Kendessoua,

4 from N’Dendessou and

12 other people from the village of Kole Kama which formed the nucleus of a new congregation in that area.

 It is important to note the contribution of 3 plus 1 graduate of the second and first batches of the Gueckedou Bear Valley school namely : Abel Lelano, Elie Dembadouno, Alexis Dembadouno and brother Justin Malaya Simbiano respectively. This dynamism shows that the Bear Valley Gueckedou Extension School and her graduates are working as a team to rescue lost souls to the Lord.

Building

We wish to inform you that the local congregations established here as a result of our evangelism are now on their feet gathering materials to build worship shelters. Among these we can mention the villages of Fouedou, Fassaba, Dakadou, Koindou and Ledoumboulo.

Agriculture

Through this report, we wish to reiterate our commitment with Healing Hands International to resume her agricultural activities with the Gueckedou Bear Valley lnstitute starting with the training of personnel. This is important for the development of the school and the church.

Personal Profile

We would like to introduce you to a brother in Christ, Eloi Tolno, a graduate of the 2nd class of the Bear Valley School in Gueckedou, Guinea. He was a leader in the Protestant Church before his conversion to the Lord’s Church. Today, we are please to testify of his faithfulness, his love and his motivation to serve the Lord. Brother Eloi played a great role in the planting of the Church in his and the neighboring villages of Fassaba and Dakadou respectively. He is a prospect in whom we see a lot of potentials for the growth of the Church of Christ in his community.

Other information

We will like to inform you that evangelistic teams are being formed in Guinea for the growth of the church of Christ. These teams, though independent of the Bear Valley school nevertheless have the same goal, the saving of lost souls and it’s through the Bear Valley West Africa Coordinator, Steven Ashcraft that the supports are being obtained. Hence, there are times when we not only exchange ideas with the men of these teams, but also collaborate. It is for these and other reasons that we are giving you a briefing and to let you know that funds were provided to purchase 3 motorbikes plus an additional amount to complete for a fourth one to facilitate the movements of the evangelic teams in Gueckedou and Conakry. We are grateful to those generous men who desire to boost the work of God in Guinea. The beneficiaries with joy commit themselves to use these machines in good faith for the work of God.

Thanks / Appreciations

As in all things, God must be the first to give thanks to for his mercy in making us live to serve him. Then, we thank the Bear Valley International for their spiritual, moral, financial and material support through our valiant coordinator Steven Ashcraft. We also thank  Ken, Barry and all the other people who are working for the flourishing of the Lord’s Church in Guinea.

We humbly ask that you continue to also support us spiritually – in prayers for the flourishing of the Lord’s Church in Guinea.

A new school in Malawi!

Eager to Learn

We have been very impressed by the student body’s efforts to go the extra mile to learn God’s Word.  Inside the classroom learning is expected, but the student families are doing more outside of the classroom. They are learning how to serve their local congregation. The local church only had one toilet for both men and women. One day, all of the men joined forces and finished a partial outhouse the church had started several months ago. Now the church can do the culturally correct thing and have separate toilets. 

Not only are the husbands and wives learning, the children are too! This month, several of the older boys took advantage of a Bible and songbook program we have. They said all the books of the Bible, which earned them a free Bible, as well as Psalm 100 which earned them a free song book. To say the least, these older boys were setting a great example for all the younger children on campus. But wait. That is not the best news. Two of those same boys were baptized this month!

Chapel Attendance

Chapel is a devotional held on a morning break from the men’s program.  Although not required, the women are consistently coming to learn more, be with their husbands, and add their voices to the song service.  Although it has added the need for everything to be translated, it has been a true blessing. They bring many smiles as well as encouragement to their husbands for the few minutes they are together in the mornings. In addition, it gives all the students an opportunity to practice translating in a safe environment. When one makes a mistake or is searching for the right word, his classmates will gently assist him with a word and a smile. Although a challenge for some, this valuable life lesson is one more way we are equipping men for the Lord’s work.

Classes and Campaigns

This month the men enjoyed their first research week. Then they participated in Acts 2, Personal Evangelism, and Matthew taught by three different teachers. Next month they will have Homiletics 1 followed by their first campaign. The women continued in their studies of James and Christ’s Culture. These two classes will finish at the same time as the men’s classes so they will be able to participate with their husbands in the campaign.

The first campaign will focus on evangelism in the 5 villages around the school. Following the campaign, all the students will travel home for two weeks. This will be especially important as they will need to arrange for contract work in their fields as well as maintain relationships with their home congregation.

We solicit your prayers and support as we continue in this training exercise.

Dale Kastner

Sowing the seed in Ghana

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE, TAMALE - GHANA

POST OFFICE BOX TL 925

OCTOBER 2022 OPERATING REPORT

Several activities took place in the month of October, 2022 in Bear Valley Institute of Biblical Studies; Tamale Campus. We owe God praises for all things that happened in this great month. We give God the glory for our special sponsors and servants all over the World that work to make good things happen to us in Bear Valley Tamale.

VISITATION AND MARRIAGE REPRESENTATION

Brother James Bisong Legend visited the congregation at Gbingbani and Bazua respectively. He also on that same journey assisted Brother Baaba Elijah in his efforts to get married to a sister in the Gbingbnai congregation. Things were very smooth and successful. The issue of evangelistic team formation for the Bonkurugu area was also finalized on the journey. God be praised.

KPALSI SOUTH CONGREGATION

The plastering and painting work for the external and part of the internal work on the local congregation in Kpalsi were completed successfully in the month of October, 2022. We wish to use this opportunity to appreciate all who contributed sacrificially in getting a place of work for a great beginning of this great congregation. We can see a great light ahead of us as a congregation. We pray that in the near future, as the church continues to grow in its giving capacity, we will resume work on the windows, electrification, plumbing and the completion of the toilet and wash rooms, plastering and other finishing touches. We humbly thank our brother Steven and his family as well as Brother Kojo for their extraordinary work towards this young congregation. We are on course towards the direction of our mission as a church, in evangelizing our locality and everywhere our strength will lead us to. In the month of October also, we recorded one baptism to the glory of God. We thank you Jesus.

INSTRUCTORS QUARTERS

The roofing working for the three bedrooms of the quarter where the residence instructors are residing have been roofed successfully. Funds were released by Brother Steven, and the job has been successfully done. However, there is still more work to be done on it.

LECTURESHIP

Four courses were successfully treated in the month of October as the students were almost through with their term for the two years Diploma Course. The courses are; World Religion (Daniel Adjei Mensah), Congregational Development (James Bisong Legend), Church History (Yaw Amoo Gyima) and Logic and the Bible (Daniel Adjei Mensah).

SCHOOL GARDEN AND IRRIGATION WORK

The maize cultivated on the compound of the school land was harvested in the month of November to aid the feeding of the new incoming students. We are yet to thrash them for proper storage purposes.

We have also started with the irrigation work being sponsored by Healing Hands International on a similar effort of complementing the feeding expenses of the students. We have raised the beds on a portion of the land, one of the poly tanks has been installed and the drip kits fixed and transplanting have been done.

Things are working appropriately in Tamale by the grace of God.

Thank you sir,

Bear Valley, Tamale

Fiji school celebrates two graduates

BIR SCHOOL UPDATE:

 Jason and I finished the regular school term on the 21st of October at the Bible Institute at Raiwaqa.  Jason finished up his study of the Greek language.  I taught a class on Critical Thinking in which we did a brief survey of rhetoric, argumentation, logic, and fallacies.  The purpose of the course was to help our students think more critically so as to evaluate the arguments and propositions used by others and be able to determine their validity.  Another goal of the class was to help them form better propositions and arguments so as to more effectively communicate the truth of God’s word.  

 SHORT COURSE TEACHERS:

Following the close of the regular term we were privileged to have two short course teachers come to us from Jackson, Mississippi.  We had Andy Dulaney, his wonderful wife Dana, and Derek Broome were able to come to Fiji to help us out.  Andy serves as an elder of the Lord’s church and Derek as an associate minister.  Andy and Dana are no strangers to Fiji and have made several previous trips.  However, this was Derek’s first time in Fiji, though he has previous mission experience in Europe and Central America.  Andy taught a course for us on the Parables of Matthew’s Gospel and Derek taught First Corinthians.  Both did an excellent job.  Dana was an encouragement to Debbie and Devan as well as conducting a lady’s devotional for the ladies at Raiwaqa.  

 BIR 2022 GRADUATION:

Andy, Dana, and Derek were able to help us celebrate our 2022 graduation.  We were very fortunate to have two graduates this year from the village of Vatudamu on the northern island of Vanua Levu.  Romulus and Meriani O’Brien are a husband and wife team who have six children.  They were able to persevere in spite of the challenges posed to us by the Covid19 lock downs of 2021 to complete their course requirements.  On Tuesday evening, October 25 we had a banquet at the school in their honor.  The staff, students, and their wives came together to help them celebrate their well-deserved achievement.  Upon completion of their program it is Romulus and Meriani’s plan to return to the village where Romulus will resume his duties as the local evangelist.  We look forward to great things from this dedicated Christian couple.  

Peru school takes a class on communication skills

We have satisfactorily concluded one more course of our program. I am referring to the oratory course, which was presented by Brother Andrés Nuñez. Both the instructor and the students had a good time training and coaching. I will now share some notes from both the teacher and the students, I think it is a good way to know the experiences of some of them during the course. I hope this is encouraging to all who may read this short report.

Andres Nuñez's report:
In the month of October 2022 I had the privilege of being able to teach this Oratory course, very essential for every Christian, especially for our student brothers who are preparing to teach, preach and evangelize using the word of God throughout their lives. It is better that our future servants of God prepare themselves in Oratory, which is the art of speaking eloquently, of delighting, persuading and moving through the word of God. Well, the persevering practice of speaking to convince, together with the knowledge and good use of oratory techniques, makes the speaker. The BVBI-PERU Bible Institute has this purpose for its students.

Our student brothers participated in this course:
1. Mariela Ramirez Salazar
2. Ethel Lapa
3. Alejandro Manrique Matos
4. Jose Medina Atoche.
5. Victor Quijandria.
6. Jose Daniel Chiuyare.

It was a special experience because I used a new study material focused first on “The main techniques of public speaking”. (1) Its importance, concepts, conditions, qualities, speech, preparation, pronunciation, reading, diction, tone and voice, presentation, theme. (2) How to use your body and hands when speaking in public, stage fright, fillers, the image of the speaker, time, support materials.

We gave each student the Study Material. "Oratory the art of speaking" and "The course of biblical oratory.” The classes were virtual and face-to-face, and the truth is that the brothers were very enthusiastic about knowing and learning more about the art of speaking in public, together with the different techniques of Oratory.

Personally, I really enjoyed teaching our brothers. They showed great interest, a desire to know and learn more about the course. It was a good, positive experience and I know that the brothers feel more motivated, with great expectations of the next course next month "Hermeneutics" that will be taught by our brother Juan Abanto. I thank God for giving me this opportunity to teach our brothers the word of God.

Now we will share the thoughts of some of the students:

“I learned to communicate the word of God in a better way, both in posture and in putting a better intonation of voice, so that I can come forward to serve God, and the listeners can understand better (José Daniel Chuyare)

“About the Oratory course: What I think and say is very interesting, since one learns ways of speaking, how to speak eloquently, knowing how to reach the hearts of the listeners, public or auditorium, it is very good and recommended for the Christian and to do a good job in the work of the Lord” (Ethel Lapa)

“Thank God for giving me the opportunity to study this oratory course and to you as teachers, my personal appreciation goes out to you. The public speaking course has allowed me to realize many errors that I have been practicing without realizing it, such as fillers, also knowing that our body also speaks, the diction of my words, loud and clear vocalization. Only practice and perseverance will help me to polish all my mistakes regarding the exposition of a message of God's writing or a study" (Alejandro Manrique M.).

“Many thanks to brother Andrés, for the oratory course. I learned a lot. I did not know that we use oratory for everything. I learned new teachings in oratory. Diction, which is very important, and realizing my filler words, and I also have to practice a lot so that I can be heard loud and clear when I speak, and it does not mean that I have to shout, thank you very much again” (Mariela Ramirez)

With the favor of God, this Saturday, November 5, we will be starting the Hermeneutics course. We ask for your prayers to continue with our program of biblical instruction and for new students to continue to be added.
Thank you for the time you have taken to read these lines, God continue to bless you!!

Guinea school conducts their second graduation

Introduction

The greatest work that man should embrace in this world is to serve God, not only to save his own soul, but also to help other lost souls to be saved.

This is also how the Gueckedou Bear Valley Bible Institute is and we work together with the same feeling and spirit in carrying out the various activities that are detailed in this report.

Teaching / Classroom :

To build up and enlarge the church, we must first train and or edify evangelists; and to edify the evangelists, we must teach them the word of God. That is why during the 31 days of October, the Gueckedou Bear Valley school taught the following subjects :

-The plan of Salvation by Balla Kamano from the 26th/9/ to 3th/10/2022

- Hermeneutics 1 by Antoine Fassa Tolno from 4th to the 10th/10/2022

- Homiletics 1 by Niouma 2 Kamano from the 11th to the 17th/10/2022

- The Gospel of Matthew by Antoine Fassa Tolno from the 18h to the 21th /10/2022

A written evaluation was done at the end of the teaching of each course and the results were satisfactory.

Evangelism :

The heart of our activities is evangelism. This is so because evangelism is the mission that the Lord Jesus Christ entrusted to the disciples to lead lost souls on the way to eternal salvation.

During the month under review, this mission was carried out in several forms, namely, door-to-door personal evangelism, the radio gospel broadcast and the gospel campaign all of which yielded to the conversion of 20 precious souls who accepted Christ under the following descriptions :

1. A new congregation was planted in the village of Kendessoua. This was possible as a result of a strong contribution of student Balla Frangadouno, one of those currently in studies here at the Bear Valley school and through the support and preaching done that night resulting in 7 baptisms by our brother, Francis Musa.

2. The productive presence of our Coordinator, Steven Ashcraft who gave a strong hand in the conversion of 9 souls – 6 and 3 on Sunday October 30, 2022 in the villages of Kendessoua and Bouliedou respectively.

We are proud to mention and appreciate the great courage of our Coordinator, Steven who despite the bad state of our roads went with us to the distant villages to preach the good news during his brief visit.

Graduation ceremony

As it is customary with Bear Valley, at the end of the training of each class, a ceremony must be organized for the official presentation of the diplomas to the graduates.

Such a ceremony was therefore held on October 29, 2022 for the graduation of the second batch of students from the Gueckedou Bear Valley Bible Institute here in Guinea. This ceremony was preceded by a day of Bible teaching in a seminar on October 28.

We are pleased to inform you that the ceremony was successful to the glory of the Lord. About 850 persons were present among which were the representatives of the Prefectural and Communal authorities.

Thanks

We thank our God the Alpha and the Omega for his infinite love to help us in our weaknesses through Jesus Christ our Savior.

We thank and give appreciation with special emphasis to our Coordinator, Steven Ashcraft for his courage and determination to be available night and day in seasons, favorable and unfavorable conditions to serve Christ in the context of flourishing the church of God in Guinea.

We also thank Bear Valley International for their unconditional support of God’s work in Guinea through its extension school in Gueckedou.

In short, we are thankful to all those who contributed in any way to the success of the graduation ceremony of the second class of students here at the Bear Valley Bible Institute in Gueckedou, Guinea.

May God abundantly bless each one of you according to your works of labor.

West Coast School of Preaching students near graduation

OPERATIONAL REPORT FOR OCTOBER, 2022

CLASSROOM WORK

Most of the full-time students are left with just a few months to complete their two years academic journey in West Coast school of preaching. So much has been taught and studied during this period. There has been massive improvement in the students from when they first arrived at our gate. Classroom work proceeded very smoothly in the month of October. Currently, some of the courses being taught include: Christian Ethics, Book of Revelation, Godhead, World Religions and Denominational Doctrines. 

Part-time classes are also proceeding very well and at a very good pace. Their classroom work still continues on Fridays and Saturdays. Joshua Aidoo and Douglas Armah were the instructors who taught them in the month of October. Bro. Joshua taught them Advanced Hermeneutics and Advanced Homiletics while Bro. Douglas taught Preacher & His work.

PERSONAL EVANGELISM AND BAPTISM

Current and Past students of West Coast School of Preaching continued to spread the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ in the month of October. God who is always faithful saved some souls through their efforts. 

Thank you.

Joshua

Wotutu staff and students restore a congregation

Dearest in Christ,

I am sure everyone is doing great as we mark the last days of the year 2022. The year has been a fruitful one for family and for the work that has been entrusted in our hands. We continue to thank Him for His grace that we see upon us and on the work as we have witnessed much expansion of the kingdom of God here in our lovely country of Cameroon.

Welisane John is one of our students who has returned from his last mission work. It was successful! This brother had a great two-years stay here in Wotutu. He will be working in the congregation of Mbonge after his graduation. The Mbonge congregation is one of the oldest in Cameroon. The preacher there died many years ago, and there has been no one to help the congregation since. During weekend evangelism, and the end of quarter mission week, Welisane was sent there. They have now deemed it good for him to work with them full time. Please pray for him and that great spiritual things will continue to take place there.

 Our students are “fully baked,” and are ready to take the gospel to the ends of our country. They are ready to “rob from the strong man’s house,” they continue to “think souls.” Please keep them in your prayers. Be praying for them to have the zeal and courage, to do great things for the Lord everywhere they find themselves.

The last class for this batch was “Marriage and Family.” In this class, we allowed people in the community, and in the Wotutu congregation, to come and be in the class to learn. This always goes a long way in the building up of their families, which also helps to make our community a happier, safer, and healthier one.

At the end of the class, arrangements were made with the local government authorities to draw up marriage papers for each couple. They were very happy for us to pay some amount of money so that the students could have a legalized marriage certificate from the government.

We always round up the class with the famous, “CHOOSE YOUR MATE AGAIN BANQUET.” All of the couples were back in the Wotutu congregation for the joyous banquet which involved their families and many people from their communities. Many of our students considered the event to be their original wedding ceremony.

Part of the ceremony was the cutting of the, “CHOOSING YOUR MATE AGAIN CAKE.” The beautiful wedding cake depicted the beauty of the occasion well. This class, and the banquet that follows it, is always a turning point in the lives of many families.

Be praying for the Malende congregation in the Muyuka subdivision. The preacher that had been preaching in that congregation for over 40 years, died in his home country of Nigeria. I was part of the Cameroonian delegation that travelled to Nigeria for the funeral. Sadly, since then, the congregation has begun to collapse, as the sheep were all scattered because there was no one to preach for them. Our students have actively evangelized the village and some Christians were encouraged to stay faithful and others were restored. The congregation is presently alive and healthy again. Please, we need your prayers as we engage in these types of works.

Graduation bells are ringing! This year, graduation celebrations will be December 7th and 8th of 2022. Everything is almost set for the day. Some Christians are already moving towards Wotutu. For some, coming to Wotutu may feel similar to how the children of Israel may have felt as they journeyed to Jerusalem. The journey can be long, but the remembrance, renewal, and fellowship are much anticipated. Please keep our graduation events in your prayers, that all goes well, as we entrust it into God’s hands.

The smiles on the faces of the students, tell you how ready these students are to go out into the world to preach the gospel. Please keep them in your prayers, that God will continue the work He has started in their lives, as they see his grace and mercy working in their personal life, in their families, in their congregations, and in their villages.

APPRECIATIONS

God is good all the time, and all the time God is good. We are very thankful to God for all His priceless support in our lives as we commit to doing all that is entrusted in our hands to do. Thank you very much for your fervent prayers and deep support that helps to keep this work going. God sees, and will reward in due season. Please do your best to share this report with others. We shall soon compile the end of year report, which will carry the summary of all what took place in BVBIC-Wotutu and the congregation here in 2022.

God bless you! Make a great day!

By His grace Director BVBIC-Wotutu