2nd Graduation In Nigeria...

Beloved Brethren,

It was great even to announce that the 2nd convocation ceremony of our dear ministerial students was very fantastic. Brother Chad Wagner represented the Bear Valley Bible Institute of Denver very well in the ceremony and has arrived back home safely. The graduates were highly honored and they were wished well into the fields for soul-wining. All we need to do for them was done including transport fares to go home.

During brother Wagner’s stay with us after the convocation, we had two baptisms after worship at Afikpo and one more baptism yesterday. That was great and wonderful. Please pray for the new converts.

The Governing board of CSMT School of Biblical Studies is still meeting to know when and how the program will continue. The 2nd meeting for that will be held on 20th August 2011. Any development in the program, you will be dully informed.

Reuben in His Service.

Living Examples In Arusha...

Greetings Fellow Workers,

We thank you for your continued fellowship in the Gospel. God continues to bless His efforts through you and through His Church here in Tanzania. We are indeed the most blessed people in all the world and it is through the preaching of the Gospel that others might know our God as we do.

Through the good example of "Safari for Souls" campaigns, our good brothers and sisters in Christ are now living by example. They too are doing as God would have any of His faithful, by conducting what they call; the "East African Gospel" meeting. Each year they come together, rotating between Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda, holding a Gospel meeting.

This year they have chosen the Southeast part of Uganda, just outside the border town of Busia for their meeting. Jimmy Gee, Charles Heberth, Ahimidiwe Kimaro and myself will join them in this evangelistic efforts. We leave today, after Bible class and worship, heading for Uganda. We will overnight in Nairobi, Kenya and make our way to Busia on Monday.

We ask you to join us in praying for this effort everyday this week. The meeting will conclude next Sunday, August 21st. Please pray that God will be glorified, souls will be saved and all participants and their families will be safe. We thank you and we pray for you as well.

Until all have heard! 

In Him,
Cy, Stephanie & Granny

Preparing For East Africa Gospel Meeting...

Dear brethren,

It seems now that every Sunday we don't have power in Busia the whole day and Night. But thanks be to God today we have it and I am sharing with you my day and week. It has been a busy week at school and in my private work. Brother Elias Omollo has gone back to Kenya to prepare for the gospel meeting which is starting on Wednesday at his home congregation Lieta church of Christ in South Nyanza. This meeting ends on 13th August 2011. He is going to miss the East African Gospel meeting which starts on 15th August 2011. 

Sunday we worshiped at Nabyunyu church of Christ 40 km from Busia towards Kampala. This is the congregation where one of our students, brother Sande Joseph, comes from and he is currently the preacher. When we preached the gospel the first time in this village in 2009 someone who was not a member of the church gave us a place where we erected a shelter where the church meets every Sunday. Due to the inflation in the country right now, the owner wants to sell it out to whoever may give him money. Pray for these brethren so that they do not miss this plot. 

Many congregations are planning to attend the East Africa Gospel meeting. Pray for them as they plan so that they are able to attend. May our God bless you richly. 

Yours
Francis Wechesa

50th Anniversary - John Oppon Gaidoo...

The campus is now quiet with all students gone for the holidays. While school is out instructors will be engaged with working on their assignments from their classes last month, working with churches that have requested their services and getting materials for the new school year that begin early September.

The fiftieth anniversary of the death of John Oppon Gaidoo, the first Ghanaian evangelist of the Church of Christ was held on July 24, 2011 at Nkum his hometown, and where he had the first congregation of the church. This was organized by his family and several brethren from around the country were invited. I was privileged to preach the sermon at the service. His tomb which was renovated with funds from the Bomso church in Kumasi was unveiled that day. There was fundraising to build a meeting place to replace the shed now used for services. A target of 50,000 Ghana Cedis (about $ 34,000) has been set. 3,750 Ghana cedis of that amount were raised at the service. A request has been made to the family to preserve the room where the first converts of the church in Ghana held their meeting. It will require the strengthening of that portion of the building of which the meeting place is part.

One of our students, Augustine Assoro, the oldest, shown in an earlier report, has opted to go to the Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies to complete his training. He was part of the team that went from West Coast to the Tamale graduation. He is now past 70 years and wants to be closer to his home town in the Upper East Region.

My senior brother who lived and worked in Belgium has returned home in his retirement years. He is down with Parkinson’s disease. The cost of medication is very high. My understanding is that there is not a cure for the disease yet. All the medication is to help manage the situation. What I am seeking help for is how to care for him. It is mostly my responsibility and that of his two children to look after him. There are times he gets tremors and pains and we do not know what to do. If anyone knows about this disease and can give us information on it, and especially how to provide proper care for him as he is confined to the house and cannot walk by himself. It is not easy helping to care for him when I have no idea what it is all about.              

Brethren, pray for us.
Daniel k Ampadu-Asiamah

Challenges Of Raising Support For Coordinator...

Two-thirds of this month we were on the road trying to raise support. The Lord was good to us. We had safe travels and met friends, family and great brethren. The only real difficulty we had was the kids getting food poisoning for several days. Aaliyah also had a foot injury while playing with one of the kids we were staying with. That has been bruised and swollen for about a week, but thankfully a brother in Christ, who is a doctor, took some x-rays and said that there were no breaks. The children did great considering how long we were on the road and how many different places we stayed.

We went from Denver to Wichita, KS and stayed with my brother and his family. I was able to meet with two new congregations there. Then we went to Tulsa, OK and stayed with the Clayton family who has faithfully supported us for years. We were able to meet with the congregation they attend. While in Tulsa, the Comers, who are some good friends of ours from school, came from Arkansas to meet us. We then went to Oklahoma City to meet up with the Schinnerer’s, who are also good friends from school.

For the next two days we were in Stratford, OK. This is where I have a lot of family members. It was good to have time with them. The next leg took us to Dallas, TX. We worshipped with the Cold Springs congregation in the morning and the Waxahachie congregation in the evening. It was so good to see these familiar faces and then meet some new ones. The Dobson’s housed us on Sunday night and then we drove to Waco, TX to meet some generous brethren that have known us from the days of the Rez, but we really didn’t know them. Getting to know the Donaho family and sister Corley was such and encouragement to us.

Tuesday we made our way to Hico, TX. These brethren have supported us since Bear Valley. They had a special dinner where nearly 40 people were in attendance to have fellowship with our family. That really showed a lot of love; and once again we were encouraged.

Wednesday night we met with a new congregation in Lancaster, which showed a lot of love and generosity towards our family and the work we are now involved in. Thursday was wonderful as we spent the night with the Craytons. We met them at Polishing the Pulpit about 5 years ago. They are always uplifting to be with.

The next three days we stayed with the Stephens family. It was so good to get to know this family better and to see the good works they are doing in the Lord’s kingdom. It was a nice break before our long trip back home. Sunday we worshipped with the Decatur church and then on to Weatherford to worship with the North Main church. This is a very mission minded church. We appreciate all the McKay’s did to help us meet this church. We are thankful for their hospitality and generosity.

Monday we drove about 6 hours to visit some good friends from Bear Valley. The Roach’s are doing a good work near Farwell, TX. We valued our time there. Lots of catching up as our families continue to grow. The next day we drove long and hard to finally make it back to Denver.

The Lord blessed us richly on this trip. Relationships were renewed with so many loved ones and so many new relationships were forged. We praise God for this great opportunity. It was not the easiest trip, but it was a trip filled with so much giving, encouragement and love.

We want all of you who housed us, fed us, gave to us, taught us, prayed for us, encouraged us and loved us to know that you are in our prayers and we are putting these experiences on paper so we do not forget how the Lord works through His body the church.

As most of these congregations must meet with mission committees and elderships to decide budgets, we will not know the outcome of our support until the end of the year. We pray that we are able to become a part of these congregations. Our prayer is that God will place the right congregations together with us in this work of training preachers in their own countries to go into all the world.

PLEASE GO TO THE BEAR VALLEY WEBSITE AND READ MORE ABOUT TRAINING PREACHERS THROUGH EXTENSION SCHOOLS: /extension- news/tag/cameroon

You will also be able to read all of the past reports from Cameroon and any other school connected with Bear Valley.

Josh

Focal Point In Cameroon Is Bearing Fruit...

Dearest in Christ,

Amazing grace is what I wish you all this hour in Jesus name. I am sure all is going well with you and your family. Accept greetings from this end and I am happy to inform you that God still sits on the throne so all is going on well.

Brother Frederick Epie was added this afternoon after worship and 8 souls were restored after spending time with the minister on Saturday visiting backsliders. Among them was brother David Epulle who stayed for 8 years away from Christ. I restored him this morning back to his first love. Please pray for this congregation and the nearby villages. By the grace of God, most of our students will go to this area because they have seen that it is a fertile land for the gospel to grow.

Our weekly program went on well no matter the rains. All our lecturers came to school as usual with the zeal to train soldiers of the cross. Their zeal is always appreciated by me for their effort toward this work. It is priceless.

Our students are seeing our sacrifice as we are all living examples to what we preach and what we teach in the school. Chapel topic for this week was “My Focal Point.” This was aimed to help both the students, visitors to the school and staff, because we know in life all must have a focal point, but our emphasis was for us to focus on Christ who is able to do more than what we expected (Eph. 3:19-20).

I left the campus on Thursday night for personal missions to some congregations about 200 kilometers away from Wotutu. All the churches along the road I took to get to the main congregation in which I was assigned to preach welcomed me well. This visit also sets an eye opener for other young men who are on holidays now and desire coming to CBIW to be trained in the future.

All the congregations are struggling with only two having trained preachers who can divide the truth rightly. The demand for our students to come and help in different congregations is on a regular basis. It has become like the Macedonian call. We love to do this, but the time has not come. The field is really ripe, but the laborers are few. Please help us in your prayers that these brothers, after their training, will become useful in God’s hands.

The population of Ngusi congregation this morning worshipped their King. I have been sending students to this congregation to help. The leaders today applauded CBIW and those concerned in this school that they should not relent their efforts for it is bearing fruit in their community.

Carl Doibe, minister in Ngusi, has been preaching since 1976 and really prayed for the students to graduate and come to that area. His son, Nsong Nelson, is in CBIW now training and he is doing well with his studies. His presence in CBIW gives us hope for the future in the Ngusi area as a young man.

This quarter’s campaign is tilted toward nurturing and planting new congregations, if all that is planned remains the same. Please continue to help us in your prayers. 

PLANS
We are still praying for all of our evangelistic tool to be put in place. Let us break grounds for the gospel in Cameroon. The staff and students are ready, but there are things still pending: public address system, van and tracts.

Keep us in your prayers and stay strong. Please come and join this team to save souls. Keep thinking souls so that we shall continue to rob from the strong man’s house and by so doing we shall depopluate hell populate heaven to the glory of our King.

Thank you for helping us in all that you are doing. Your labor will never be in vain. God bless you to do your best to share this report with others. 

Elangwe and family
By His grace, Director CBIW

What I Love About The Weekly Report...

Classes began today at the Bear Valley Bible Institute of Denver. BVBID is starting the 46th year of training men to preach. It is exciting to share in the opening chapel celebration as new students enter the program. Over the next few weeks several schools around the world will also begin the next class of students preparing themselves for the greatest work on earth, preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ.

There are several updates this week. A few are specifically from coordinators and the others are from the men who are serving on the ground in various locations. I know I have said it before, but it encourages and excites me to read about the work so many are involved with in the Lord’s kingdom. 

I love reading about the work of students who are evangelizing the various villages and communities near their school.

I love reading about the commitment and dedication of Christian men and women who work hard to share the gospel with others.

I love reading about the future plans for growth and development of new congregations where the students will be laboring.

I love reading about the cooperative efforts of Christians in the U.S. and in Africa who are able through e-mail to connect to strengthen the hands of others in fulfilling the Lord’s work.

I love reading about the efforts made to overcome a variety of challenges met on a week to week basis in the Extension Program.

I love reading about the grateful hearts of fellow-laborers who know the value of the sacrifices made by many of you to help make the work fruitful.

I love knowing we are working together with congregations throughout the U.S. and around the world in lifting up the hands of faithful men who will teach others the gospel.

I love sharing the reports with you and I believe you will love reading about this information and much more in this week’s report.

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

Donnie Bates sent his monthly report about the work he has been doing with the school in Danli, Honduras.

Howell Ferguson reports on the work he has been involved with over the last month. His article can read by clicking here. 

Extension Reports 

My Life As A Mirror: The lessons in chapel are benefiting the students and the community as others are attending this time of worship in Cameroon.

Roll The Gospel Chariot: The work of preaching the gospel ties into a children’s song and the reality of the work in Chimala.

Updating The Work... The Ghanaian Way: Steven Ashcraft recaps the work in Tamale and in Togo in this month’s report.

A Successful First Year And Prospective Future: The recent graduation in Tamale is only the foundation for the work of the future in Ghana.

Limiting Electrical Power, But Not The Power Of God: While the government may limit the electrical power, the power of the gospel is still changing lives in Uganda.

Cooperation To Preach In A Refugee Camp: Working together with Christians in the U.S. and Tanzania is making a difference in preaching the gospel to a refugee camp in Tanzania.

New Converts, New Visitors, New Opportunities: Several areas in Arusha demonstrate the growth possibilities in the work in Tanzania.  

Final Thoughts
These are exciting times with the beginning of a new school year. It is hard to believe how quickly time passes before us. I am so thankful to be involved in this great work and I appreciate the efforts of all who make it possible.

I know I am very repetitive when it comes to expressing my gratitude. I hope you know this is more than just words on a monitor screen. With all of my heart I thank you. 

Thank you for your love for the Lord, the gospel, His church, the lost and for those who are willing to work diligently to most effectively carry out what God has instructed us to do through His word.

There will always be more to follow. I love you with the love of the Lord.

God bless
Bob

A Successful First Year And Prospective Future...

The Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies has started with a second batch of students training. Out of the twenty-four short-listed applicants, twelve reported for the commencement of the program. The other twelve applicants are being contacted to ascertain their reasons for not reporting. Reasons given so far indicate that the reporting date, as per the Institute’s calendar, coincides with the peak period for farming. Efforts are being made to admit more students to make up the desired number of twenty-four.

The graduation of the first batch of 15 students which was tied to the Institutes annual seminar taking place from June 23-26, 2011, as scheduled.

In all, participants of the seminar which preceded the graduation were entreated to a call to the great commission. Speaker after speaker, the message let us revive that spirit to evangelism as it was in the beginning of Christianity.

The director of the Institute, brother Baah Joseph Okyere in his welcome address, thanked the Bear Valley Bible Institute and all sponsors for their support. He said this appreciable intervention by brother Steven Ashcraft has brought about a great relief to students and an undeniable hope for the growth of the congregations in the northern sector of Ghana. He called on preachers and leaders of the congregations to make maximum use of the facility.

Brother Bob Turner, who represented Bear Valley Bible Institute, in his presentation spoke of the Institute’s mission to train men for preaching of the gospel around the globe. He expressed appreciation for the efforts the Tamale Congregations are making and urged them to continue with the work. He further called on congregations in general and individual Christians in particular to consider the need for training for the dissemination of the gospel.

In another impressive talk delivered by brother Tony Johnson, participants were brought to an understanding that no excuse can be given for not obeying the call in the 'Great Commission'. With several references from the scripture, the great speaker aroused the commitment of participants to go and preach the gospel.

Speaking on the topic 'Set for the Defense of the gospel,' Brother Francis Ayine reminded participants of the protection, guidance and providence of God and said as faithfuls, all should be bold in their evangelistic work.

In the same vein, Brother Roger Ayillah cautioned participants of the need to couple their zeal to spread the gospel with the true knowledge of God and added that all should avoid speeches which have no bearing to the doctrine of Christ.

Participants were also asked to continue to appreciate the past since that would enable us know the way forward. Brother Ampadu Asiamah, the director of the West Coast School of Preaching outlined the zealousness that those who were baptized in 1970s showed toward preaching, and assured participants of a remarkable growth of the Lord’s if all take up the evangelism activities in the various congregations seriously.

The graduation which took place the next day was chaired by Brother Ampadu Asiamah. The function was attended by the representatives of Bear Valley Bible Institute, staff of West Coast Bible Institute, the medical team from Bomso Clinic, members of the Tamale Congregations, friends and family members of the graduates and some invited guests. 

It was a short but very colorful gathering. The main activity was the presentation of certificates to the graduating students. The students were commissioned with prayers led by brother Bob Turner. Another significant activity was presentation of special awards to outstanding students. Jacob Adjei Yeboah received best academic performance award, Stephen Abugbilla received both the best servant award and the most enterprising award, and Christian Someritey received the most disciplined student award whilst the most determined student award went to Godfrey Nathaniel Cann.

God bless
Baah Joseph Okyere

My Life As A Mirror...

Calvary greetings to you and your family. I pray that this report finds you in good health and a sound faith. We are doing great as our programs in the school and the congregations are going. But for the health of many students that we reported last week that they were sick, we praise God as many of them are responding to treatment. I could not take any of them to the hospital, but I met a doctor who prescribed essential drugs for all the students because to take above 10 persons to see the doctor for medical attention is not easy financially.

Our chapel topic for the week was “My Life As A Mirror” (Prov. 27:19). This was to help not only the students, but others who will pass around to be part of our chapel services. Because of how rich the topic was, some members and some leaders of the Wotutu congregation requested it to be taught in our Sunday Bible class so that a larger part of the population will benefit from it. As you can see, one of our students this morning, Etongwe Nicholoas E was taching at the church in Wotutu. It was really good.

The students are happy because of the availability of drugs now in the school. I bought a quantity that can take us for a month because the climate makes people sick often, not only the students. We are praying for the months to pass by fast so that we shall enter into a favorable weather conditions. 

The weather this week was so horrible that it made me stop the students from going out for evangelism. All our scheduled evangelism was disturbed because of bad weather conditions.

Our daily program went on well, just for the fact that lecturers from outside came to lecture late of one hour because of rains, because they must use a motor bike to make it to the school. but they stayed above normal closing hour to make up the lost hour. I commend these ministers who are teaching in the school for their marvelous sacrifice to make things happen.

Elangwe, taught a sermon this morning on the topic “God Sees (Prov. 15:3). We have four first time visitors in the church. It was great to commune with one another and the food was a balanced diet to help us grow in the Lord.

Our congregation in Wotutu is appreciative of God for CBIW and all you are doing to sustain this vision of the school. The school is doing and will continue to do great things for the Lord’s glory. 

PLANS
1) We are still praying and looking forward to favorable weather conditions for us to move to Batoke village to establish a congregation. The means for a public address system is still keeping us from moving ahead, along with the weather.

2) Next campaign will be in September and there is a village that one sister came to the school by herself pleading for the school to help send students to establish a congregation because that is her village. To get to the village you need to travel by land and then finish it by a boat for four hours in a creek. Please pray for us to have the means to go to this village and save souls for the Lord. There are similar demands like that in my office.

3) Transportation is a problem and a stumbling block to our work, because if we use a motor bike it is more risky to make our trip with this kind of weather conditions. Thanks be to God for our area is not characterized with flooding, no matter the intensity of rainfall. 

APPRECIATION
I am very happy for all that you are doing to see that this work is in progress. God will never pass you by when the time of reward will come. Please be confident that your prayers and support are not and will never be in vain. 

God continue to bless your efforts.

Elangwe and family
By His grace, Director CBIW

Roll The Gospel Chariot...

We used to sing the song “Roll the Gospel Chariot” in VBS. I was able to preach on the Gospel Chariot this last Saturday.  It is a huge truck that travels around to villages so we can spread the gospel.  It was at the small village of Nsonyaga. The lesson we preached was from our first combined Church History class last quarter at CBI.  It emphasized the Restoration plea to be Bible Christians only. There was a large crowd, and Kara Wells, who was taping the service, said there were at least 50 “children in attendance. We always take the opportunity to speak where we can and emphasize the training of preachers at CBI.

Classes are going well and since we are here only four weeks in this quarter, we are using Wednesday as the catch up day to get the necessary hours taught. The classes we are teaching are Kings, Chronicles, Numbers and Deuteronomy.  We are all excited about Remmy, one of our long time Swahili teachers, because he is teaching his first English class on the Minor Prophets. We want all of our teachers to be able to teach in both departments. Therefore, they are all enrolled in the BVBID Master’s program here at Chimala.

Silence, our only absent student, returned this week. He had major surgery over the summer. Returning, he reported 10 baptisms at the congregation in which he has worked. This week, four of our teachers are with the Gospel Chariot. This fall our students will be involved in many weekend campaigns giving them practical experience in preaching and evangelism.

This Sunday I went to preach at Itamboleo with Menard, Don and Sue Laugston. Don is here at the mission and will be teaching our students better ways to grow crops and raise livestock. This will allow them to better support themselves when they return home. Itamboleo is one of the many small churches in the region that needs help, and I go there to represent CBI and see about the feasibility of our students going there to help.  

We have at the mission several Irish medical students. We have been spending some time with them to hopefully plant the seeds of the gospel. Their love for people was evident when we returned from Mbeya last Thursday. There was a large crowd outside the hospital and we asked what was happening. There had been a terrible bus wreck. When the students heard this, they immediately jumped out of the Land Cruiser and ran into the hospital to help. About 10 pm that evening two came by to report on the injured. We desire and encourage these Irish students to interact with our students so they can learn of the work of CBI.

Speaking of evangelism opportunities, Kara Wells has been spending time at the Primary and Secondary schools. There are numerous baptisms here because many of the students are not from Christian homes. Ezekiel Harrison, one of our CBI instructors, is teaching “Bible Knowledge” every day for the children. Also, our students at CBI study with the primary and secondary students. They teach the children the gospel on a weekly basis.

Please remember our work in your prayers. We will be traveling to the States for the Denver faculty retreat, and then we will come back to teach for the final quarter in September. Upon our return, we will spend the weekends traveling to recruit students in Dar-es Salem Dudoma, Milawili and Mbeya. We have many who have already shown interest in enrolling in school here. We need your help in supporting these students.

Garry L. Hill: Director
Chimala Bible Institute

Updating The Work... The Ghanaian Way

Greetings, once again, to all of our brothers and sisters throughout the world. We thank God for your faithfulness and your desire to see the gospel spread in West Africa. We pray that God is continuing to bless you and those close to you as we labor towards that day when Jesus will return. With your help, the work in West Africa is moving forward, and a lot has happened since our last report. We are continuing to train leaders and preachers who are going out to build up and expand our Lord’s church. Graduation ceremonies were held at the schools of preaching in Tamale in northern Ghana, and Kpalime in southern Togo. Time was spent meeting with the board, staff and students of the various Bible schools discussing problems, needs, improvements, and the way forward. Plans were made for evangelistic efforts over the next few months in both Ghana and Togo. A new class of students began in Tamale, and significant progress was made towards the completion of the building for the school in that city. This newsletter will attempt to briefly outline and describe some of these efforts and events. For those of you who receive this report by email, you will be able to see a photo journal of many of these happenings.

Thank You for your Prayers
We have told you often about our strong belief in the power of prayer. Some of you may have heard that I recently had another battle with malaria. We thank God that I have completely recovered! Unfortunately, malaria is a problem that many Ghanaians and some Americans in West Africa must deal with on a regular basis. We continue to need and appreciate your prayers!

Graduations

Kpalime, Togo
During the month of June, we were blessed to see many future leaders and preachers graduate from two of our Bible colleges in West Africa. On June 18th, eight students graduated from the two year program located in the city of Kpalime in southern Togo. The graduation was attended by many in the community, and was very edifying to the local congregations. Please keep these men in your prayers as they move out into the field spreading the gospel of Christ in the country of Togo.

Tamale, Ghana
On June 25th, we had fifteen men graduate from the school of preaching located in Tamale in northern Ghana. This was our first graduating class! The graduation was part of a three day program that included a seminar based upon the subject, “What the Church Needs.” There were visitors from all over Ghana, and the USA who attended this event. We thank God for your support, and for giving us the strength to make it to this point.

In May 2011, a new class of ten students began at the school in Tamale. We are expecting more students to be added to this number over the next few months. During their first five weeks of classes, the subjects related to the Life of Christ, the basics of Christianity, surveys of the Old and New Testaments, and English writing skills were taught. Tony Johnson, a missionary from the U.S., was able to spend one month in Tamale teaching this new class a survey of the Bible. It is our prayer that brother Johnson will be able to return to Tamale next year to work full time with this school. With your help, we continue to train men to become more effective church leaders in northern Ghana.

Northern Togo
The work is continuing to progress in northern Togo. During May and June, we held numerous meetings to discuss our plans for the future. A new congregation was planted earlier this year in the town of Kande by the congregation in Kara. This city is about fifty miles north of Kara. We are also in the process of planting another congregation of the Lord’s church even farther north in Togo this year. During the month of June, we moved a preacher and his family to the town of Dapoang with the intent of establishing a new congregation there. With your help, we are bringing the gospel to the people of northern Togo!

Special Needs

Used Laptops – We are currently attempting to locate and refurbish older laptops to be given to our preacher students. Do you have an old laptop that we may be able to use in Ghana?

Library Books – We are attempting to build up libraries in all of our schools of preaching. We are in the process of putting together a list of needed books. Can you help buy a book or two or more?

Buildings - We continue to have facility needs in our schools of preaching in West Africa. We are attempting to put the finishing touches on the building in Tamale, and the school in Takoradi is in need of repairs and expansion.

Personal Support – With the change in my personal situation, I am attempting to raise additional funds for the support of myself and my family. If you or someone you know can help with this, please let me know.

Reporting in the USA
Over the next month, I will be calling you to set up times that I can visit your congregation to show you all of the wonderful works that are taking place in West Africa. I will be returning from Ghana in October, and will be setting up times to report through the end of the year. If you know of a sister congregation, or anyone else that may be able to help us spread the gospel in Africa, please let me know. I will be happy to speak with them!

Bear Valley Bible Institute Website
I would like to remind you that more frequent reports for the schools of preaching where I am working are now being posted to the Bear Valley website. You can see these reports at this web address: /extension-schools/

If you go to this web address, you will find links on the right side of the page for the schools in Tamale, Takoradi, and Togo in West Africa. You will also find specific links for each school on the left side of the page along with a link for my previous reports.

Financial Support
We want to thank all of the supporters for their contributions to this exciting work in West Africa. Without you, this effort would not be possible.

All checks need to be made out to: Mountain Home church of Christ
For: West Africa Mission

And mailed to:
Mountain Home church of Christ 380 North College Street Mountain Home, AR 72653
Any questions can be directed to the church office at 870-425-4330.

Or you can contact Steven Ashcraft at:
Email: samtnhome@yahoo.com U.S. Cell Phone: 971-270-8535 U.S. Message Phone: 870-425-4330 Ghana Cell Phone: 233-24-614-6022

Please email Steven if you would like to receive this newsletter with photos by email.

Thanks So Much, With Christian Love
Steven Ashcraft

Limiting Electrical Power, But Not The Power Of God...

Dear brethren,

I did not write this short report on Sunday because in Uganda we have power rationing. They give power on certain days and hours. We thank God that He is blessing us greatly with good hearth. On Sunday, we worshiped at a congregation  called Bulukuyi this is one the congregations where two of students go preach on Fridays and Sundays.

Brother Peter Otieno from Migori Kenya and Brother Maloba Fedrick from Bugati congregation are working. I was a companed with Ema Mawa who was given a chance to preach during service. Brother Peter Otien taught the class. For me I taught the congregation some new songs in our native language Lusamia. After the service four people were ready to be baptized. I took them in the Lake which was about 18 km from Bulukuyi village. Those who were baptized were  Olengo James, Rose Awino, Auma Henderika and  Auma Vivian. Pray for them. The Bulukuyi church is among those churches which are in need of Land and Building. They are ready start putting  a grass house so that they can save the money used on rent a very month. Pray for this congregation. God bless you all. 

Yours
Francis Wechesa

Cooperation To Preach In A Refugee Camp...

Greetings Fellow Workers:

We rejoice in the Lord for all you do and mean to His work here in Tanzania and throughout East Africa. We thank God for His blessings and for His love for all man. Recently Robert Turner received an e-mail from Pat Porter (see below). I have included this to illustrate the good being done through the Tanzania 2000 mission effort with Her efforts through the Andrew Connally School of preaching with the help of the Bear Valley Bible Institute under the leadership of brother Turner:

[“Lynn Porter (Lake Houston church of Christ), has over 500 WBS students in Kasula, Kigoma, Tanzania.  One of her students has been baptized and has started a church there in one of the camps there. {She is helping him with his support to go to school in Dar es Salaam.} Other students have also been baptized there, but they can no longer go to the river to do the baptizing.

He recently asked her if there is any way those in the camp could have contact with Christians to teach them more about the Bible and how to become Christians.

Most of these refugees speak only their native tongue and French, with just a little English.

The student, who does speak some English, Makyambe Mwindee, may be reached at Nyarugusu church of Christ, P.O. Box 347, Kasulu, Kigoma, Tanzania. Lynn also has students in the Mtabila I & II camps in the same town.

Makyambe has asked if we could supply a portable baptistry and shelter for the church.

My question is to Theron, is would it be possible for you or some of your contacts to go to the camps/church there in Kasulu and meet with the them?  Also, do you know how to obtain a portable baptistry/shelter for them if the money was supplied, and how much would it cost to obtain these there?

Bob, is this an opportunity for some of your preaching students, any that might speak French, to use as an intern/field trip/or something like a training session to do?”]

Yes indeed, we can and will help with this need and wonderful evangelistic need and opportunity. I have spoken with Elly Martin and he has agreed to build the portable baptistry. I have met with Yusuph Madaki, currently here taking two of our Master’s level courses, and he has agreed to take the baptistry to the refugee camp, preach, teach and do what ever he can to help the Lord’s Church currently meeting at this location.

Thank you Bob and Lynn for your efforts in teaching the Gospel to the lost of this world. Thank you Robert Turner (and team) for your efforts in teaching Gospel preachers the Truths of God’s Word in their own country, in their own culture, in their own language that they might be better equipped to take the Good News of Jesus Christ to their own people. Thank you KW Elders and all our faithful supporters for making all this possible.

To God be the glory, great things He is doing through His faithful. 

In Him, 
Cy, Stephanie & Granny

New Converts, New Visitors, New Opportunities...

Dear Co-Workers,

On this warm, sunny day guest Ken Chambers preached to a packed auditorium in Kisongo. His powerful lesson was scripture-filled and revealed three reasons from I Peter 4:1-6 why one should become a Christian. As usual, we had visitors present, including a lady named Prisca, who lives near Usa River. Because she is a new-comer to Arusha, she sent an email through a mailing that we are a part of, asking about “a messianic fellowship.” Jimmy responded, inviting her to services this morning. Today, Mrutu began teaching a new converts’ class for our many new Christians. They will be a part of this class for one year. Jimmy continued teaching the men on the Gospel of John.

Erica, member at Kisongo, Arusha Bible school graduate and an employee of the ACSOP, taught a wonderful lesson to the ladies on the subject of “Prayer.” It is so refreshing and encouraging to know one of the Tanzanian ladies can teach such an excellent lesson. Hearing her lesson gave Trina even more hope and confidence that the church at Kisongo will carry on long after the Americans leave. Our other visiting teacher, Sellers Crane, preached at Kwa Mrombo.

Today, we have planned a home worship service for our sister, Helen, who has cancer. She continues to be sick and weak and we wanted her to be able to worship even when she couldn’t get out. Two ACSOP students will conduct the service for her and bring the Lord’s Supper.

Next Sunday Jimmy, Cy Stafford, Elly Martin, Ahimidiwe Kimaro and Charles Heberth will leave after worship for Uganda. As we said last week they will be attending the East African Gospel Meeting where they Jimmy and Cy will teach some lessons and take part in the evangelistic efforts. However, there is another reason Jimmy is making this trip.

Jimmy has always been a fan of anything written by Stephen Covey. You may be familiar with his most popular book "The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People." Well, several years ago Mr. Covey wrote, "The Eighth Habit." With that book he included a DVD which had several short documentaries about people and places which had taken some of the principles in the book to heart. One of the people was named Stone. He was a soccer player who played professionally in East Africa and was so good he was picked to play for the national Ugandan team. This was an opportunity to play in Europe and be seen by the scouts for the BIG professional teams. But, just before he was to begin this journey, another player on an opposing team deliberately injured him in such a way that he would never play soccer professionally again. Stone immediately forgave the man and moved on with his life.

Stone has since been working with young men who were unemployed, sometimes involved in crime and had been written off by their family and their society. He coaches them in soccer and teaches them a trade where they can support themselves and be responsible. To make a long story short, Jimmy asked one of the preaching students to go and see Stone in Kampala. Jimmy thought that if Stone was respected and influential in his current state, how much more could he do as a Christian and as a servant within the Church? He was visited and at first rejected what he heard because, as he said, "If God is not with me, how can I be doing so much good?" Jimmy sent the student back several times and Stone was impressed by that persistence. He now wants to meet Jimmy. Jimmy will go and study with him some more. Please pray for their safe travel and for Stone, as he hears the Gospel one more time.

Due to the trip there will be no report for the next two weeks. Thanks so much for your support of the Gospel here in East Africa. May God bless you for all your sacrifices.

In Christ, The Gees

Back Home And Classes Ready To Begin At BVBID

Meanwhile, back at home...  Sheryl and I are back in Denver for the start of the 46th year of training men to preach at the Bear Valley Bible Institute. A strong class of men are preparing themselves for a two year journey to equip them for the work of preaching the gospel. With the beginning of the new year in Denver, the Extension Program is also preparing for new classes of incoming students.

With each incoming class of students, I am reminded of the graduates who are working in various locations around the world preaching the gospel. Cy Stafford’s report this week references the fact that more than 90 men have graduated from the Andrew Connally School of Preaching in Arusha, Tanzania. Think about the difference being made in just one school. 

If the efforts are then multiplied by 15 schools over the years ahead, we are talking 1,350 men preaching the gospel. The exciting part for me is the fact we are growing. We are working to see that more schools are added to the program in the years ahead. Our goal is 75 schools over 50 years. Do the math!

Extension Training is making a difference. As we continue to grow, more souls are being added to the kingdom. The reports below will demonstrate the effectiveness being seen by the men who are still enrolled in school. Our prayer and goal for the future is to maintain records on the work being done by those who graduate from the program and serve in the Lord’s kingdom.

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

Extension Reports 

Birthday For One, New Birth For Three More: As brother Elangwe celebrates his birthday, the exciting news of three more souls added to the kingdom rings forth from Cameroon.

Fellowship And Family Demonstrate Growth In Nepal: As the work progresses in Nepal, greater fellowship is extending in God’s family. This is one of the great needs in the work.

Handcuffs, Tears And Joy: The work in Chimala demonstrates the dedication of students to endure even the most difficult of trials. Garry Hill reports on the challenges faced in Tanzania.

A Future Stable And Secure In Ukraine: With the transfer of the building to the church, the future of the work is stable and secure. Dennis reports about the changes with BVBIU.

Students Learn Ways To Provide Support: Francis Wechesa shares news about the students learning ways to provide their own support after graduating.

VBS In Cambodia: Two villages in Cambodia were blessed with good numbers for a recent Vacation Bible School. Chann’s report shares more.

Steps To Growing Autonomous In Cambodia: The contribution of the church toward the recent VBS in Siem Reap and Takam Village demonstrate growth on the part of this young church.

Here I am, Send me: The providential working of God is amazing. Cy Stafford reports on the development of the work in the Andrew Connally School of Preaching. This is an exciting read!

Is It Possible? YES: Jimmy Gee’s report shares how nationals continue to step up and take a leading role in the development of the church in Arusha. With God, all things are possible. 

Final Thoughts
As we move through another week, I search for adequate words to thank you for your support of the Extension Training effort. Without each of you being involved in the specific roles needed, this work would not be fruitful.

I hope you know how much your involvement is appreciated by all. Thank you for your love for the Lord, the lost souls around the world, and your desire to see the church of our Lord and Savior grow. I pray God will richly bless you in your service.

God bless
Bob

A Future Stable And Secure In Ukraine...

Dear brothers, churches and families.

The summer break for the institute is almost over. I think that we achieved with God’s help what we had planned at the beginning of this summer.   

At the end of the July, we managed to complete the process of legally giving the building of the English Language Institute to the church.  Now the future of this building is more stable and secure. The building, where the Bear Valley institute is working and the church is gathering, now is owned by a religious organization (i.e. the church). We want some of the Bear Valley instructors to be included in the paperwork and become the co-owners of the building.

Since we took the financial responsibility for closing the English Language Institute (the previous owner of the building), we need 3 months for the city government organizations (like tax administration, pension fund, city water and electricity providers) to audit the institute activities. This procedure will require additional time and expenses. But the main thing is already completed.

Right now we are gathering the papers needed for the church to make new contracts with the companies providing us with water and electricity, etc. 

Last Sunday I preached at the church in Krasnoarmeysk where the graduate of our school, Alexander Rodnayev, is usually preaching, and we may possibly have another student from that town.

A young man from Nikolayev contacted me, and he was very interested in getting into our program. I’m gathering information about him, and I want to meet with him in person.

During this month, my wife and I visited yet another VBS that took place near Poltava. It was a wonderful time. We have also got to meet some of our friends we haven’t seen for a long time and thanked them for their work.

We have already got the schedule for the next school year, yet we still experience shortage of teachers. If some of our American brothers are willing to help us and participate in this ministry, we would be very happy.

If you have any question or comments, please write to me. Thank you for your care and support. Our students and churches in Ukraine send you their greetings and love.

May God be our Lord to the end of our life.

Your coworker,
Dennis.

Steps To Growing Autonomous In Cambodia...

Welcome brothers and sisters to this month's report of the work of Christ in Siem Reap, Cambodia. This month is a much needed month for not only myself but the staff and students of IBISR. As we completed our first school year, the students were sent home and the staff got a chance to visit family and take a break from teaching. We also had the opportunity to regroup and focus on the next school year. It is a blessing to be able to work with individuals who are excited about doing God's will and teaching his pure gospel to sincere souls. It is more of a blessing to have fellow workers of Christ like yourselves who read and support this work on a consistent basis. We know that our goal is to be self sufficient but we also know that we need your support until that day comes. It's like a teenage orphan who knows that he has the responsibility to take care of his younger brothers and sisters but he doesn’t refuse help from kind and generous individuals who show compassion on him and his family until he is able to grow up to be an adult and take care of them himself. That is why we appreciate your love and sacrifice in sending your hard earn money to support this work.

As some of you might know, I was planning on taking my wife and daughter with me to America to visit with all of you and report of the work for the past 4 years that I've been here. For me and my daughter it's not a problem because we are U.S. citizens but my wife is not a citizen of the United States yet, so we had to apply for a tourist Visa for her. To make a long story short, her Visa was denied because the embassy doesn’t think that she will return to Cambodia if she gets approved. Anyway, if I do go back to America, I'll probably just bring my daughter and leave my wife at home, which I really do not want to do. I told her that I will not return to America without her. But my wife understands the situation and how important it is for me to go back and report of all the good things that's happening here with all of you face to face. She knows it's part of my work as a missionary and is willing to sacrifice a month's time away from me and my daughter so that we can continue to get financial support for this wonderful work. I would ask that you all pray for my family and I as we make this difficult decision. Thank you in advance.

As for the news concerning the work of the church, we were able to successfully conduct a VBS for 150 children combined in Takam and Siem Reap. The theme for this year's VBS was "Jesus loves the children." Chann, our local preacher did all of the organizing and preparation along with Darat, Choeuy, Savay, Hout, Piseth, Ravy, Sokchea and many other local leaders. I just sat back and watched everything. It was truly a local's work and they did an amazing job! It's just another testament to the work of IBISR in developing such wonderful  and mature leaders. More importantly it's a testament to the power of God's word to transform lives. Not only did they prepare the lessons and activities themselves, but the local church provided finanically for the food and costs of materials. We are starting to take little steps to reaching our goal in becoming autonomous. We are also studying with new prospects and when God opens their hearts and they obey the gospel, we will report and rejoice with all of you. Please continue to pray for this work to grow and thrive in the land of the Buddhas.

If you would like to read more from past reports and see pictures to the current report, please visit the following website: http://www.freewebs.com/siemreapchurchofchrist/apps/blog/

-Phanat

VBS In Cambodia...

There were some activities taking place recently in Siem Reap Cambodia. We just had our VBS for the year 2011 that was done a few days ago in two places: one was at Takam and another one was in Siem Reap.

We had 121 people joining the VBS at Takam village which is located north of Siem Reap about 25 kilometers from the city. We had children much more than adults to participate with us. On the way there it was a little bit difficult to drive as it is a rainy season in our country so we had to drive through the muddy road. But, thank God that we made it without any serious problem.

We had the number of people who came to join our VBS in Siem Reap. 75 people, there were more children than adults the same one to Takam, and our Theme for VBS this year is God loves children, Mat 19:13-15.

We had two lessons for each place and included the show to illustrate the lesson that we taught. People really liked the show which were shown by our staff and students, also visitors. We all laughed together and enjoyed to study the word of God together. Through the lesson we make the children feel more and more comfortable to come to the church as they learn that they are not excluded at all but they are welcome by our Lord Jesus. Also, after lessons for both places we had a meal together as a fellowship which were cooked by our brothers and sisters in Christ.

I have some pictures and video clip that will try to attach but don't know how much it will allow me to attach, you will see some in attach. 

Thanks for your support and your pray for the work in Siem Reap, Cambodia.
God bless you all in His work
Chann

Birthday For One, New Birth For Three More...

Dearest in Christ,

It is amazing for me and the entire student body and staff of CBIW to say hello. May God richly bless you all for your kindness toward us, and your prayers toward the work here in Cameroon.

Brother Eddie Samuel baptized Christian Ndiko in the Wotutu congregation in the cause of this week. Remember him in your prayers to walk worthy of his calling.

I do hope you are all doing great in all that you do. Our prayers for you are that God keep watch over you and bless all your endeavors.

I come before you today appealing for you to join me to thank our God for adding one more year in my life today. Today is my birthday, as we had some special prayer session after worship today for me, my family and all the work entrusted to my hands. I am 34 years old now. My blessings are many. Above all I was called by God to serve Him in the capacity of an evangelist. I am excited about my calling and I pray He use me in many levels to fulfill His words through me. 

Some students, three of them, went to Tole over the weekend for weekend evangelism. God blessed their effort with three souls as they were added into the small struggling Tole congregation. Please keep them in your prayers.

All our programs in CBIW went on well. Our devotionals and our chapel periods were wonderful. Thanks to God for using both the students assigned to speak in Chapel to do it with happiness. I am excited about them because I can see daily growth in their lives.

This week was also a memorable one as the second quarter results were released with great improvement from our students. Please keep these soldiers who are being trained to enter into the warfront in the near future well-armed to defend the gospel of Christ.

Brother Muofo Bernard baptized Ambe Rene over the weekend in Tole as they were busy during their weekend evangelism. Pray for the brother to keep the faith.

Brother Ambe Rene also told the news of his baptism to his sister who is a nursing mother, the students went into their home and shared the gospel and Maureen Ambe who also accepted the truth and put on Christ. See the picture below and to the right. Please remember them in your prayers that they should be an eye opener to the rest of the family who are staunch denominational followers (Presbyterian).

This afternoon was another moment of joy in the life of the church in Wotutu, as the church came together to watch videos from WVBS in church with invites as part of the celebration of my birthday. The church used the projector device donated by brother David Ballard to project the lessons from WVBS and also the matriculation ceremony of the CBIW students. It was wonderful. Over 120 people were in attendance. The church has decided to put projection of DVD from WVBS as part of their weekly program where visitors will watch touching lessons like that of John Moore and others.

During my birthday celebration, it was also time to have fellowship with one another, as brethren spend time to sing praises to God and to pray for many more and fruitful years for me to serve in the vineyard of the Lord.

We shall be moving with the students to Batoke village to plant a church. Please remember us in your prayers for us to have the means to go, so that we shall lay the ground work. We shall continue the work when we have all that it takes to perfect the evangelistic effort of the village. We still need a lot of other things.

APPEAL
1. The school needs a digital public address system which will help in evangelizing Wotutu village and other villages that we shall go for outreach.

2. The problem of a van is still serious with us as it hinders our movement. Students who travel to Tole this weekend did that under the rain to make it to Tole. We give thanks to God for using the students and three souls were added to the church there. Rains and mud could not stop us because the gospel is for all. Please do your best to share our troubles. 

APPRECIATIONS
We thank you for all your prayers, concern and support for the smooth running of our program. I pray that God bless you and replenish all you are doing for us.

Do your best to share this report with others who may be of help to us. Thanks for your love and care. Stay safe in Christ, as you continue to think souls. 

Elangwe and family
By His grace, director

Is It Possible? YES

Dear Co-laborers, 

We welcomed Ken Chambers and Sellers Crain to Tanzania today. They are here to teach in the Master's Program. Ken will teach New Testament Theology and Sellers will teach Advanced Homiletics. Ken is from Hixson, TN and attends the Mt. Creek congregation. Sellers is from Nashville and is an elder as well as the preacher at the Rivergate congregation. We are happy to have them with us and appreciate their efforts.

On the way to the airport today Jimmy attended the Usa River congregation where Fariji Paul is the preacher. He is doing a great work there. I did not get an official count but the "preacher's count" is between 40 and 50 in attendance. It was a joy to be with them. Fariji asked Jimmy to teach Bible study and preach. He preached on Luke 11:1-4 and the model prayer. We sometimes skip the first verse and go straight to the model prayer, but there is something there in verse one that is very interesting. One of the disciples asked Jesus to teach them to pray. Why did he not ask him to teach them to preach, or evangelize? Evidently they saw something in the prayer life of Jesus that caused them to want to do things the way Jesus did them. May we learn the same lesson.

While at Usa River, Trina was at Kisongo and taught the ladies class on Genesis 15. Candace also taught the children's class. Trina said they had several visitors at Kisongo. And, speaking of Kisongo, the campaign that ended last Sunday resulted in 18 baptisms. What is so impressive about this is that Ahimidiwe Kimaro, the preacher at Kisongo, has already made up a list of the new converts and assigned certain ones to different Christians. Trina and Paulina will be helping three ladies and Jimmy is responsible for working with a husband and wife which are Lembris' brother and sister-in-law. We think it is a sign of great maturity on the part of our African brethren that they would make such plans. It will not be long before the brethren here are ready to handle the total responsibility of this work and we believe they will be more than ready for the task.  

In two weeks time Cy Stafford and Jimmy will leave for Uganda to attend and speak at the East African Gospel Meeting. Jimmy preached this meeting when it was held in Nairobi in 2005. Each year it is held in a different African city. What you may not remember from that event was that we told you this event was planned and has been executed each year totally by our African brethren. The thought for it was born from the Safari for Souls campaigns that have been going on for many years. The brethren here saw that each year and said "Hey, we can do that!" Yes, they have asked us to help with the preaching and teaching from time to time but they are the ones who took the lead and have made these meetings a success. Tune in next week and we will tell you of another reason we are going to this particular series of meetings. Thanks for all you do and sacrifice to make this work possible! 

In Christ,
The Gees