Exceptional month in Gweru, Zimbabwe

INTRODUCTION

March was an exceptional month. Twenty-five souls were converted. An exchange program with African School of Bible Missions took place. Classes progressed well. These and more are a testament to the school’s tenacity of keeping the great commission alive within the minds of every student. Progress was seen on the classroom and office block construction effort as well. These and more are found hereunder.

1.0 CURRICULUM PROGRESS

The following subjects were taught and completed; Theology of Missions, 1 & 2 Corinthians, Denominational Doctrines, Wisdom Literature, 1 -2 Peter and Jude, Christian Evaluation  of Contemporary Ethics, Entrepreneurship Skills Development and Sign language. Greek was another subject but it is still ongoing. Great appreciation to both the teachers and students for working together to make the term a success. Examinations were also written successfully.

2.0 EXCHANGE PROGRAM

In February 2024, African School of Bible Missions (ASBM) visited BVBIZ for an exchange program. The year 2025 was BVBIZ’s turn to return the favour. Students accompanied by two staff members, brothers Mutichu and Madyira travelled to Bulawayo for a three day exchange program beginning on the 13th to the 15th of March.  The following report by one of the students summarises what transpired;

The three-day exchange program was highlighted by a lecture on the Theology of Missions taught by ASBM Director and BVBIZ adjunct instructor bro. Nkosilathi Mpofu. After lunch, the lecture resumed, emphasizing biblical foundations for mission work. Later, the team camped at Nkulumane Church of Christ for a joint dinner and evening devotion, fostering fellowship between the two institutions.  Academic Engagement and Fellowship continued into the second day, which, as planned, began with morning devotions, followed by continued lectures on the Theology of Missions. A chapel session provided spiritual refreshment, after which academic discussions resumed. The day concluded with evening devotions and informal fellowship, deepening bonds between ASBM and BVBIZ students. 

The final day opened with devotions, after which students from both institutions undertook a combined examination on Theology of missions. A lively Bible quiz tested scriptural knowledge, followed by recreational games, including a tug-of-war and soccer. A closing chapel session and remarks by ASBM and BVBIZ leaders marked the end of the exchange. The BVBIZ team then departed: some returned to Plasworth, Gweru, while others proceeded to Plumtree for an eight-day evangelism campaign. 

3.0 CAMPAIGNS

On the 15th of March, the BVBIZ students formed two groups as they headed for an eight-day evangelism campaign. The first group composed of 9 students and two teachers went to Plumtree whilst the second group with six students headed back to Gweru. The following are the reports from the two centres;

3.1 PLUMTREE CAMPAIGN

The team to Plumtree arrived there on the 15th of March and was welcomed by Gogo Magare, a senior church member, who shared the congregation’s history and current challenges. An evening devotion was held on the arrival day and set the tone for the campaign. Evening services were held daily whilst a marriage seminar, as part of the evangelism tools, was held on Saturday afternoon. The team was joined by the school’s two past graduates brothers Ovius Kufa and Tapiwa Madamombe who have been very instrumental in providing an additional experience to the school’s students in several campaigns. The effort saw 9 souls being added to the church.

3.2 PLASWORTH CAMPAIGN

As the first batch of students were in Plumtree, the second batch composed of 6 students were stationed at Plasworth. Their activities were supervised by bro. M. Muchingami. During the week, devotions at Percy Ntini Secondary School were initiated. Evangelism was done in homes, to those working in fields, those herding cattle and to whoever had the ear to listen. The effort saw 16 souls being baptized. Almost all of these are attending services at Plasworth. Nurturing the souls of the new souls is being done.  

4.0  MAY 2026 INTAKE

BVBIZ will from APRIL begin the recruitment of potential students for the 2026-2028 intake. The school cannot take more than 15 students. Those wishing to join this intake are encouraged to apply in time to avoid missing this great opportunity. As per the norm, the following are the requirements;

 Handwritten application letter

 A copy of I.D

 Copies of academic certificates

 Recommendation from Congregation

5.0 CLASSROOM BLOCK UPDATE

Builders completed brickwork to the classroom and office block on the 20th of March. The next stage is the roof. The iron sheets are already on ground whilst a deposit has already been paid for timber. The roof shall exhaust all available funds for the project. More resources are going to be needed for the window frames, glazing, inside plastering, electrical wiring, plumping, painting and floors. Special appreciation to brother Chitendeni for donating 20 bags of cement and Mr Jeche, one of the community leaders for donating 2 bags of cement.  The Gonzo family gave $20 as well. Thank you all.  

6.0 DONNIE ESTEP VISIT

Donnie Estep, the regional director for Southern Africa arrived on the 30th of March for a four-day teaching mission.  He taught I and II Thessalonians. He interacted both with the students and teachers including appraising himself on the progress the school has made since his last visit. It is always a very encouraging visit to both the teachers and the students.

CONCLUSION

The month of March was filled with activities. Classes progressed well. Examinations were written successfully. Success was noted during the two evangelism campaigns that took place. Brickwork to the classroom and office block is now done. These and more could not have been possible without your partnership. May God continue to bless you all!

Posted on April 7, 2025 .