Rejoicing In The Blessings God Has Provided...

Greetings Fellow Servants, 

God continues to give the increase through your dedication, prayers and support. The Good News of the Gospel, is seen in the good news reported by His faithful evangelist’s reports below:

Michael Losotwa Reports: “The Magu church (south of Lake Victoria) was started in March, 2014 by our graduate, Daniel Kazungu. It started with 14 people who obeyed and 17 more people were added to the church through baptism due to the effort that we did on my visit to them in May. Daniel Kazungu  is preaching in this congregation. I left 8 new classes for him to follow up. This week he sent a message that those people, plus 4 more, are ready to obey, but the problem is water, because all dams we used last time to baptize are dried now. So the only alternative we have is to use a portable baptistery. I am planning to borrow the one at Karatu. 

He reminded me of some needs they have. 1. At least 40 Swahili song books (total cost, $40). 2. A bicycle to hasten his movement on going from bible classes and visiting Christians (Provided by our good brothers and sisters at the Lord’s Church in Navasota, TX). 3. A piece of land near the center of that small town to be a meeting place, a cost approximately 1.5M T-Shillings ($900). The church will be ready to build a temporary church building themselves using the local material. 4. Any monthly support, so he can have more time daily to work for the Lord.  

I am planning to visit them at the end of this month, so I can take with me that baptistery, for the baptisms, plus his bicycle, plus some SBU lessons, songs books and anything that they request that you are able to help the. My travel expenses will be; 231,000/= ($144), to make this trip across the country.”

David Bayi Reports: “Two souls were added to the church by our God Thursday night, to Him we praise and give all the glory. This was made possible because our good brothers and sisters from America cared enough to come and work with us at the Ilkirea, a new church plant, and because of the good follow-up efforts by the Lord’s church in Arusha. Please pray for my wife and our family, as we will put to rest her grandfather, who was over one hundred years old at his death.” 

Ayubu Zakayo Report: “We now have 50 bible classes we are following up on. God has added 30 souls to His church at Ilkirea and our attendance has doubled since before the Safari for Souls campaign, from 20 to 40 souls.”

Maurice Gasper Reports: “We established 52 bible classes, 15 souls have obeyed the gospel and we now have 28 souls worshiping our God each Lord’s day in the newly planted Njiro Chini congregation, here in the Arusha Area.”

What more needs be said? The Good News of the Gospel is having its desired affect on the souls of the good people of Tanzania. Thank you for your part in making this a reality. 

In Him,
Cy, Stephanie & Granny

Conversions, Restorations, And A Little History...

Beloved in Christ ,

Happy Lord's day to you all. It is just about 6:28 pm in our country - Nigeria 

I admonished the church at Onikokoro / Gbongudu from Matthew 20:1-16 on “Working in the Lord’s Vineyard” this morning before we went out for evangelism between 9:45-11:30 a.m. and we recorded a restoration.

From the students in the field, brother Raphael Adeyehun, one of SWSE-2 students reported the conversion of two souls and restoration of a brother at Ayede, Ondo state and brother Tsado Jonathan and brother Festus Ayoo reported the conversion of a soul each. While brother Adekunle Emmanuel Olanrewaju reported the restoration and conversion of a soul respectively and brother Gabriel Ishom reported the conversion of two boys today at Kotangora in Niger state. To God be the glory! 

Brethren, we thank you all for your partnership. May The Lord of blessing continue to bless all your undertaking in Jesus Christ 's name. Amen.

Sincerely in Christ,

Makinde E. Olufemi (Director of studies)
Southwest School of Evangelism (SWSE) Ibadan & Lagos Campus, Nigeria

SWSE History
The SWSE-Ibadan and the satellite campus at the Agege-Lagos State has been organized by members of the church of Christ since 2003 for the training of gospel ministers in Nigeria and extension of the Lord’s kingdom in the Southwest states of Nigeria.

Today SWSE is the fulfillment of my dream in 1989 when I was a student at the ministerial department of Nigeria Christian institutes, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. The pioneering instructors of the School are: myself (brother Makinde E. Olufemi), brother Okon S. Udoh, brother Dairo Abiodun Joseph, late brother Ebenezer Aiyela, brother Emmanuel Olu Adediran, brother Philip Okome and brother Stephen Okesami while the present instructors are myself, brother Olaniyan Isaac, brother Abiola Joseph Olusoji, brother Matthew Idowu, brother Kayode Solomon Eniafe, brother Ezekiel Okorougo, brother Emmanuel Olu Adediran, brother Abraham Idu Yeje (Campus minister) and Miss. Esther Oyenuga (Computer instructor)

Brethren, my case with the church of Christ and SWSE is just like that man that happen to find a treasure hidden in the field and he goes and sells all he has to buy that field! I sold all my land possession between 2003 till the date we built what is now known as SWSE in line with 2 Tim.2:2 and Matt.13:44.

The school that begins operation from a classroom situated at the World Bible School office, Onikokoro-Ibadan, with five students on August 2003 now happily occupies about three and half blocks of her own at Butubutu village via Badeku/Jago, Ibadan, Oyo state, Nigeria 

Our conviction is that we expect to pass through this world but once: therefore, whatever good things that we can do, let us do it now!

Late brother A. E. Aiyela was the first SWSE foundation Chairman. After his death in 2008, Brother David Akinola was appointed as the new foundation Chairman while brother Emmanuel Olu Adediran became the Vice-foundation Chairman. An elder from Church of Christ, Isheri Oshun, Lagos State named brother Ayobami Akanji, and a graduate of African College of Theology, has been the SWSE Board Chairman since year 2004. Brother Matthew Idowu, one of the graduates of the SWSE is the Board secretary since year 2007. The School has a Satellite campus in Lagos State at the auditorium of Agege Church of Christ, No. 17/19, Awori Street Agege Lagos State.  

Brethren, it costs the school $600 annually for a student’s feeding allowance at the Ibadan campus, between $1,500 to $2,000 annually for our weekend campaign/evangelism, $7,000 for all of the instructors’ allowances, $600 to $1,000 van maintenance,$2,000 for electrification, between $500 to $1,000 for postage, paper for computer and photo copier. As Yoruba people always say “Obe to dun, Owo Lopa,” Nothing good can happen without money!

Aim of the SCHOOL: 
Our aim is not to compete with any Bible School in the brotherhood or to run a high School but:

i. To indoctrinate the youth, for the safety of the church depends on her youth being indoctrinated lest they are carried away by every wind of doctrine (1 Tim. 4:11,6:9-16).

ii. Training tomorrow’s leaders today (2 Tim. 2:2; Rom. 10:14f)

iii. To prepare God’s people for service, so that the body of Christ may be built up (Eph 4:12-16)  

iv. To make our graduates not a heavy burden in the congregations that engage their services as an evangelist. Therefore, we added vocational studies to the school’s curriculum.

It is also our aim to teach students to love each other, always remain in the teaching of Christ and to bear much fruit for Christ. 

The training is normally one year for Diploma courses and two years full time for a Diploma and Certificate from BVBID at the Ibadan campus and three years for part-time in Lagos campus. However, the number of years of studies may be longer depending on the student’s maturity in the faith and performances both in the field and in the class.

The SWSE-Ibadan has been involved in the planting of over 50 congregations in the Southwest states of Nigeria and one in Kwara state and one in Kogi state since her inception. Over 100 men have graduated from the school and more than 80% of them are serving as an evangelist in the Lord’s church in Nigeria and other African countries.

We place an emphasis on: Sound doctrine that avoids the extremes of legalism and liberalism. Evangelism - Training church Leaders and New Testament evangelists and our motto is : Saved To Serve .

The SWSE-Ibadan, with the help of brother Chad Wagner of the Bear Valley Bible Institute of Denver, CO, USA (BVBI) and SWSE patron/special adviser, brother Doug M. Wheeler of Westside congregation, McGee, Oklahoma, affiliated with the Bear Valley Bible Institute of Denver, CO, USA in May 2012 in order to upgrade the knowledge of the instructors and promoting the students level.

Among the visiting Missionaries to the SWSE-Ibadan are brother Doug M. Wheeler, brother Ron Pottberg, sister Ruth Orr, brother Joel & sister Pat Coppinger, brother Bill Pennell, brother Stephen Ashcraft, brother Ralph Williams, brother Denton C. Landon Jr., brother Bill Stewart, brother Gary A. Fallis, brother Richard L. Renfro and brother Jerry Bates

The SWSE will graduate 23 men and a woman on August 23, 2014 and 32 men across the country are now admitted for a diploma in Theology and a certificate of Biblical studiesfrom Bear Valley Bible Institute of Denver, CO, USA in 2014/2015 academic session.

About the director: Brother Ebenezer Olaniyi Olufemi Inaolaji is a native of Ibadan, Oyo State capital. Born to the family of Makinde in April 22, 1964, converted to the Lord’s Church through the World Bible School Correspondence Courses in care of brother Clifford Barker, 524 Hill view Drive, Hurst, Texas 76054, USA in 1984.

Happily married to sister Esther Oluwaseun nee (Olowe) on April 23, 1994. The marriage is blessed with four children: Two boys (Emmanuel & John) and two girls (Glory and Victoria).  

Enter the ministry of preaching in August 1989 as a student preacher at Use Ikot Amama congregation, Ibiono Ibom, Akwa Ibom State.

He was trained as an evangelist at the Nigeria Christian Institute’s ministerial department, under the leadership of brother Okon Effiong Mkpong in Uyo Akwa Ibom State from January 1989 to December 1990 where I graduated as one of the best students of the ministerial department.

Also, a graduate of International School of Biblical Studies, Cape town, South Africa.

Trained as a cabinet maker at the Government Technical College, Oyo and Washington Technical College, Mokola Barrack, Ibadan between 1984 to 1987. served as one of the pioneering lecturers at West Nigeria Christian College and School of Biblical Studies, Abeokuta, Ogun State from year 2000-2003.

Served for 8 years as a gospel minister at Isheri-Oshun congregation, Lagos State from early 1994 to late 2001 and at Egbeda Okunola congregation, Lagos State from early 2002 to late 2003 and now serving as one of the ministers at Onikokoro/Gbongudu congregation, Ibadan, Oyo State.

In 2001, I started the Lord’s church in my village, Onikokoro via Akobo/Ojunrin, Ibadan with the help of God and the full support of Isheri-Oshun congregation and that of brother Doug M. Wheeler (minister of the Dewey congregation by then, but now ministers at the Westside congregation, McGee, Oklahoma, USA.

Beloved, to know more about this work in the city of Ibadan and Oyo state as a whole, I humbly refer you to our able patron & special adviser (brother Doug M .Wheeler), brother Steven Ashcraft and brother Bill Pennell.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT:
I owe the Almighty God the greatest appreciation for counting me worthy to be one of His servants.

My gratitude goes to my sweetheart, sister Esther Oluwaseun Makinde and our four kids for their love, sacrifices, understanding and supports during the building projects.

My special thanks goes to brother & sister Joel Coppinger; brother & sister Doug M .Wheeler; the Wilmette congregation; West Olive congregation-Peoria, AZ; North street congregation-Georgia; Oceanside congregation/FL-007; sister Era Pennell; sister Kathleen Withers; brother John Branard; brother Steven Ashcraft and the BVBI; brother Bob Turner, Dorman & Donna Lough, brother Ron Pottberg, brother Ken Heflin, sister Lella Holley and you all for contributing in one way or the other in making my dream a reality! Big thanks, for you didn’t allow me to die without fulfilling my dream for my people. In fact, if I die today, the Lord will welcome me home (cf. Luke 2:29 – 32 Rev. 14: 13).

In Conclusion: The SWSE appreciates the great commitment of our American and Canadian brethren toward the growth of the Lord’s church in Africa, especially Nigeria and the SWSE.”He that waters shall himself be watered.” You can also partner with us in this training program. Only God can count the number of lives your gift will touch.

Your fellow worker in Christ’s vineyard,

Makinde Ebenezer Olufemi (Director of studies)
Southwest School of Evangelism (SWSE), Ibadan & Lagos state, Nigeria.

Persecution Plagues Students In Togo...

David Potchole used to be in the denomination - International Mission of Christ for Salvation of Souls. David has for months been teaching his congregation about the New Testament Church, even before his baptism. Just after his baptism, the persecution started. He was asked to hand over the keys to the apartment the denomination rented for him including any items in his possession. In spite of all these happenings, David is resolved never to go back to denominationalism. The few converts he has are worshiping with him under palm branches in a village near Kpalime.

David was compelled by his former church to refund CFA 90.00 used to pay his rent. David, in the course of his work, has established five congregations which he was pastoring before enrolling at CBS. Now he is worried about the future of these congregations still under his care. I told him during my discussion with him that, CBS does not have the funds to adopt all these congregations. Brethren, what can we do to encourage him. Should we convert all these congregations to become Churches of Christ or leave them to continue as denominations? David informed me that he has decided to encourage all the preachers working with him to enroll at CBS in September 2015. David is married with three children.

The Tsame congregation needs CFA 15.00 a month or CFA 180.00 a year to rent a piece of land on which the structure stands.

Congregations that Benefited from funds for Sheds
1. Hanyigba
2. Beme
3. Kpadape
4. Atakpame
5. Yorkele

Note: There are still several congregations that lack a place of worship. Some are currently meeting in member’s living rooms, which discourages visitors.

Due to the economy and the exchange rate of the dollar against the CFA, a shed will cost $600.00. You may contact me if you want to build one shed.

Adopted Congregations
1. Hanyigba Church of Christ
2. Zomayi Church of Christ
3. Kpadape Church of Christ

Two families have adopted three congregations in the Kpalime area. The congregations are listed above. Each adopted congregation is supported with a $100.00 each month. You can also join in this effort to assist other young and struggling congregations in the Kpalime area.

Mini Gospel Chariot for Togo
The Gospel Chariot for Togo is almost ready for use. It has both sitting and cargo compartments. All the items needed for effective outreach have been purchased. The Chariot will be outdoors with a three day campaign in Kpalime from the 24th - 26th of July. The program will end with a worship service during which prayers of thanksgiving would be offered and the vehicle dedicated to God. Brethren have been invited from Lome and the Kpalime area to grace the occasion. The churches in Togo are grateful for this great tool for evangelism.

SAD NEWS- Twins discontinue studies at CBS.
Two of our students at CBS, Sampson and Samuel, were advised to discontinue their studies at CBS due to their frequent excuses to absent themselves from classes to meet their former church leaders. Sampson and Samuel (twins) were missionaries in a denomination supported to plant churches in villages. They had apparently signed a contract in which they had made some commitments binding on them. The owners of the church they used to work for are determined to prosecute them should they decide not to come back. They were also to refund all monies spent on them. Since we did not want to be involved in any litigation, we had to let them go. Our decision was informed by our experience with David Wama when CBS had to solicit help from Gabriel Oaks for his release from prison over a similar issue.

GHANA-TOGO MISSION
Dear Brother Gley,

Believing in your efforts in Ghana and Togo, I/we propose as the Lord enables, to donate generously to support this worthy cause. Enclosed you will find $....................
H. Willie Gley C/O Blanco Church of Christ
P.O. Box 866 Blanco, TX, 78606 Tel: 830-833-4884
Name....................................................... Address.................................................... City/State/Zip............................................... NOTE: Please make checks payable to the Blanco Church of Christ and earmark for Gley/Ghana & Togo Mission.

Report by Willie Gley

To see Willie's report with pictures, please click here.

Back In The Classroom...

My beloved,

The Kenya School of Preaching (KSOP) students are back to classes from the short break and looking forward to the first KSOP graduation in August 23, 2014. I am teaching Greek IV and 1, 2, & 3 John. Elias is teaching Hebrews and Preacher and his work. Jacob Omollo will teach Jeremiah and Lamentations. Roger Shepherd will teach a short course to both the under graduate and graduate class (Foundation of Mission) while Mike Reese will teach Congregational Development to undergraduate class. 

There is no greater joy than knowing these men love and walk in truth during the break based on the reports they share.

While they went for break, all participated in personal evangelism and Bible studies which resulted in a total of 5 baptisms and six restorations. It need not be said here but it’s worth knowing that a restored soul is worth the same joy as a baptized soul.

Separately one student, Adamson, followed up on a local congregation which had abandoned worship two years ago and went back denomination. Through his efforts he managed to reach out to individual former members pleading with them to get back to the Lords word and worship. At the time of writing this report, 6 men called from the village of Uradi inquiring if we can help them with grapes so they can begin true worship. It’s great news to hear a whole congregation of over 10 members being restored to worship. On the other hand, another student stood firm and told off a denominational leader who wanted to be a member of the church with his two wives.

The Sigomre church organized a gospel campaign and invited the KSOP students who helped with door to door evangelism with one soul being baptized, one being restored who used to worship in another congregation, but when she moved to Sigomre went back to the denomination because she could not locate the true church. We had three visitors who attended worship and one was a member of Church of Christ in Africa which has its head quarters in Kisumu near KSOP. He could not differentiate the Church of Christ and the Church of Christ in Africa yet he opened his heart to learn what the Bible says.

There are very many sincere, yet lost souls that are being rescued if/when we go out. These students still need to go out more to the field and work.

The KSOP second intake is going on, and so far we have 26 potential students who have complied with the requirements. We still wait for others to meet the requirements and still others are sending the application forms.  

From time to time, the neighboring children within the compound have been playing within the premises breaking windows and door glasses. This time round they cut a pipe taking water into one of our tanks.

Thanks to all who are involved with the great work of training preachers. Keep mentioning KSOP in your prayers. We still have needs of buying land and constructing the school building.

His worker,
Charles Ogutu, Kisumu – Kenya

To The Glory Of God...

God has blessed us with another day on this earth and in service of His kingdom. The beauty of the extension program is that the glory of God’s work is exemplified in every corner of the earth and His kingdom is growing. The news reported this week is encouraging as we can see how God is blessing those who serve in each location. Please pray for those who are laboring so diligently all around the world.

We are nearing the beginning of another quarter of classes in Denver, and it will be the first quarter for a new group of students arriving in Denver over the next two weeks. Twenty-six students have been accepted and they are striving to get their support in place to begin classes the first of August. Pray for these men and their families as they desire to prepare themselves for greater service in the kingdom.

We are a few more stops away from heading back to Denver to teach classes in the new quarter. We visited with the wonderful folks at Greenbrier this Sunday. This has always been “home” for Sheryl and me. They are such an encouragement to us and they have been since we entered as students at Bear Valley in 1990. They stood by us then and have continued to do so for the past 24 years. We owe them an incredible debt of gratitude and we were sure excited to share the news about the work.

More news about the growth of the program is forthcoming. In just a few weeks we will be announcing exciting news about the future of the program and ask you to pray for us as we move forward in this great work and the responsibility God has given us. We pray that all we do will honor and glorify Him.

Now on to the other reports...

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

The latest report from Howell Ferguson can be read here.

The most recent report from Jerry Bates can be read here.

Extension Reports 

Mission Tract Printing Continues To Impact Cameroon: News about a shipment of tracts from Mission Printing is spreading in Cameroon and the distribution is making a difference.

Preventing The Church From Entering Apostasy: A recent seminar in Ghana was instrumental in helping preachers from the north prevent drifting into a state of apostasy.

Students Embark On A One Month Teaching Practice: As part of the training at the Southwest School of Preaching, students are entering a month where they will practice their teaching.

What Is The Church’s Supreme Aim And Task? The answer to this question is a small part of the great news from graduates of ACSOP in Tanzania.

Final Thoughts 

Many thanks to each of you for all you do in the work of extension training. The program is growing and the future is incredibly exciting. God continues to bless everything we are privileged to share in around the world. We hope you are encouraged and excited as well with all that is being done. Thank you for making it possible.

God bless
Bob

What Is The Church's Supreme Aim And Task?

Greetings Fellow Servants,

The life we have been blessed with, in Christ Jesus, is a life full of joy and service opportunities. Tanzania, I believe, offers one of the best last places on planet earth, to serve a people who genuinely seek God, His will, and true unity of the faith. We thank you for this privilege of service to a people so welcoming. 

Field Report: Yusuph reports one soul added at the newly planted congregation at Kahama and another soul obeying the gospel at the Ushirombo congregation.

A Story: “The death of my blood father at Kogrogwe” - On 27th of April, 2014 my father passed away at Korogwe after suffering with diabetes for a long time. The Burial was on the 29th at our home in Korogwe. I give God my thanks for he had obeyed the Gospel since August 2013 and has stayed in Christianity the whole 7 months, though he was in his bed the entire time. Now there is a new congregation at Korogwe. Each Sunday the church would pray with my father, serve him the Lord’s Supper and sing songs of praise to our God. I believe I will see him again, in Heaven. God bless you all, Your’s in Christ, Yusuph.” 

Field Report: “As I evangelize with the Gospel through several classes, I have been able to teach two men who have obeyed and have been baptized: Pascal Peter (28 years old) on April 24th, 2014 and Daniel Matiya (30 yrs old) on May 17th, 2014. I have several other on going classes, two more brothers very close to the Kingdom. I continue teaching Bible at Ganako Secondary School each Friday morning and at Karatu College on Friday afternoon. Our greatest need, a permanent place to worship. We have land, three rooms with walls, but no roof, windows or doors. We pray God will provide. Yours in Christ, Clement M. Murungu.”

Field Report: Jackson reports seven souls having been added to the church that meets at Manyire this year. Amen!

Desperate times call for desperate measures. If the Lord wills, I will be coming to America in one week. My purpose is to share the good news of the Tanzania Mission effort with several and to speak on a most important subject; “World-Evangelism, the Church's Supreme Aim and Task.” So, here is the deal, if you and or your congregation will help me accomplish this goal, I will personally bring you either 250 grams of Rift Valley coffee, or if you prefer, a box of Kilimanjaro Tea. That’s right, if you will help me make up the $2,000 deficit I currently have, to cover my travel expenses, I will treat you with a “Taste of Tanzania.” Simply put in the memo section of the check, Cy/Travel/“Coffee” or “Tea” and you will receive either by personal delivery or in the mail a great treat! The deal of the year would’t you say. 

Our brother Clement, Jackson and Yusuph represent a group of faithful, dedicated and godly men who have passed through the Andrew Connally School of Preaching over the last 15 years. Yes, 134 men have graduated and are now carrying the Gospel light throughout East Africa, planting new congregations and saving hundreds of souls each and every year. Let us never forget, “World-Evangelism, IS the Church's Supreme Aim and Task.” Till all have heard...

In Him,
Cy, Stephanie and Granny

Students Embark On A One Month Teaching Practice...

Beloved in Christ, 

Greetings in Jesus Christ name. The staff and students of the Southwest School of Evangelism, Ibadan and the brethren of the young congregation at Egbeda town, Ibadan evangelized Egbeda town and it's environ on Saturday, July 5, 2014 between 9:00am through 4:00pm.

On Sunday, July 6, 2014 I taught on “Leading One Another” in the continuation of our internal lectureship which centered on “Caring For One Another” and a soul named brother Paul Akanni was restored after the worship.

At the campus congregation, SWSE campus, Butubutu, one of the year-1 students named brother Olofingorite A. Mayowa taught on the “Doctrine of the Demons” while another student named brother Shotola Emmanuel Olusegun admonished the campus church on “Who is God?”

Brother Ilori Gbenga, one of the SWSE year-1 students concluded his teaching on “New Testament Evangelism” at the Egbeda congregation, Ibadan and brother Idowu Segun taught on “Beware Of False Prophets” at the Asejire congregation, Osun state. Brother Adeyi Gideon Kehinde taught on “Implementation Of Ministerial Counseling in a Local Church” at the Akanran congregation - Ibadan and brother Oladapo Alabi Ishmael taught on “Christian Influence in the Community” at the Jago congregation, Oyo State. Brother Godwin Ede, the evangelist of the Wasimi congregation, Osun state, our year - 1 student taught on “God Knows Why” and brother Felix Rotimi Oladipo taught on “New Testament Worship” at the Fakeye congregation, Asejire and also admonished the church from John 14:1-6.

Brethren, the school is very very busy preparing our students for a month of teaching practice that by God's grace will commenced on July 12 through August 10, 2014.

We humbly request your prayers for the students and the school as a whole. Thanks for your partnership.

Below is the latest report from Nigeria with information about the monthly student preaching practices.

Greetings from students and staff of the Southwest School of Evangelism (SWSE), Ibadan & Lagos campus, Nigeria.

The 32 students of the SWSE Ibadan main campus and one of our part time students in Lagos campus embark on a month long teaching practice today and they are expected back on the campus on August 11, 2014 Lord willing.

We thank brother Doug's mom who has supported this one month exercise with $500. Three of our students are going to the North central and a student will be serving at Aba, Abia state (Eastern part of Nigeria)

Below are the names of the students and where they are going to serve for a month:

1. Adedoyin Sola Rotimi............Ilorin,Kwara State
2. Adeyi Gideon .......................Alakia-Ibadan,Oyo state
3. Akinade Oluwaseun..............Ire,Osun state
4. Destiny Elijah.....................Kute-Ibadan,Oyo state
5. Godwin Ede........................Okitipupa,Ondo state
6. Festus Ayoo........................Ado-Ekiti,Ekiti state
7. Ishom Gabriel.......................Kotangura,Niger state
8. Ilori Gbenga.........................Itele -Ota,Ogun state
9. Oladapo Alabi.......................Jago,Oyo state
10. Makinde Emmanuel...............Ogbomosho,Oyo state
11. Olofingorite Mayowa...............Ire,Osun state
12. Oluwasegun Idowu...................Ijoko,Ogun state
13. Optimism Onyealulam...............Aba,Abia state
14. Philip Isaac.........................Erinmo,Osun state
15. Rotimi Felix Oladipo...............Olukeye-Asejire,Osun state
16. Samuel Olorode...................Onikokoro / Gbongudu-Ibadan,Oyo state
17. Samuel Arowolo...................Agric-Ibadan,Oyo state
18. Shotola Emmanuel.................Ilisan-Remo,Ogun state
19. Tsado Jonathan.......................Bachita,Kwara state
20. Ikechukwu Collins...................Mile 12,Lagos state
21. Jon Zege.................................Ofada,Ogun state
22. Abraham Yeje......................Asejire,Osun state
23. Adeniji Joseph.......................Butubutu-Ibadan,Oyo state
24. Adekunle Emmanuel...............Iju-Ota,Ogun state
25. Adeyehun Raphael................Ayede,Ondo state
26. Amos Abana......................Lagos Island,Lagos state
27. Augustine Odo......................Mile 12 1/2,Lagos state
28. Lawrence Abiodun.....................Idi-Iroko,Ogun state
29. Oladokun Olawale..................Akure,Ondo state
30. Faleye Olusola.....................Ihunbo,Ogun state
31. Udeme Umoh.....................Iju-Agege,Lagos state
32. Anthony Samuel..................Ijegun-Ikotun,Lagos state
33. Olaosebika James..............Agege,Lagos state.

Brethren, please join us in praying for all this students to have a successful outreach during this one month of teaching practices.

Our 12th annual Bible Lectureship will come up on August 21-23, 2014 while the 11th Graduation comes up on August 23, 2014 Lord willing. Brother Ralph Williams of BVBI in Denver, Colorado, USA will be our guest speaker during the graduation exercise.

The forthcoming 12th annual Bible Lectureship / Graduation will cost us N250,000 ($1,800) and I hope to raise N50,000 ($350) within Nigeria.

Those willing to assist us monetarily should contact our school patron (brother Doug Wheeler) before or on July 25 because he will be wiring funds to Nigeria on July 31, 2014. No amount of money is too small or big to assist us hosting over 250 brethren in our 12th Annual Bible Lectureship / Graduation.

Brethren, we deeply appreciate you all. May the Lord of blessing continue blessing our joint effort in Christ name, amen.

Your fellow laborer in Christ,

Makinde Ebenezer Olufemi (Director of studies)
Southwest School of Evangelism (SWSE), Ibadan & Lagos campus, Nigeria

For & On behalf SWSE-Ibadan & Lagos, Nigeria

Preventing The Church From Entering Apostasy...

Tamale is peaceful and every one of us here is healthy.

As part of our mission, we created a platform for the leadership in the Northern Sector of the country to have an update of what the church in Ghana has been grappling with for the past two years. There has been a group of elders supported by some preachers in Ghana who have been making an effort to register the Church with the Registrar General. This idea would have brought about the formation of a National Headquarters and a hierarchy of administration of the Church quite different from what is found in Scriptures. 

The 3-day seminar, organized by Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies, was graced by a good number of preachers and church leaders from the three regions of the Northern Sector. In all, attendance of participants was ninety-five. 

Speakers for the Seminar included the following personalities:

                Speaker                                                           Topic

Brother Gyan- Kese (Main Speaker) - The Church of Christ Constitution Problem

Brother Gyan- Kese (Main Speaker) - Why and How to Register Your Congregation

Brother Baah Joseph Okyere- The need for Churches to support their Preachers

Brother Tony Johnson - The Biblical Example of Church Organization

Brother Steven Ashcraft - Biblical Example of Church Cooperation

Brother Tony Antonwini - The need for Churches to support Bible School Students

At the end of the Seminar most of the leaders expressed their sincere thanks to all who in divers ways stood against the registration which according to them would have sent the Church in Ghana into apostasy. 

Others too expressed their desire to organize support for the Institution and promised that not too long they will all contribute to supporting the good work started by donors.

In another development, the Institute has lost Brother Augustine Amoah, one of its Board Members who represented the Upper East Region. Burial and final funeral rites took place on Saturday, 28th June, 2014 at Bolgatanga, in the Upper East Region. The Institute was represented at the funeral by Brothers Baah Joseph Okyere, Daniel Adjei Mensah and Jacob Adjei. May his soul rest in peace.

The Institute which went on recess re-opened on the 7th of July, 2014.

The courses to be taught this quarter are:

COURSE           INSTRUCTOR

World Religions - Baah Joseph Okyere                                                

Hermeneutics 2 - Ebo Wilson

Marriage and the Family - Mark Antwi                                                   

Old Testament 5 - Ndakar Jaminja

Denominational Doctrines - Baah Joseph Okyere                            

Intro. To Computer - Bismark  Baah  Frimpong 

Everything is set for the activities of the quarter and we pray that all will go well as planned.

Baah Joseph Okyere

Mission Printing Tracts Continue To Impact Cameroon...

Dearest in Christ,

Greetings from Cameroon. It is always good to say hello to you and to share the abundant blessings that God continues to do here with you over there. We pray this mail meets you in good health and a sound faith always trusting and depending on God in all that you.

In Cameroon, life is going on as God keeps permitting it, but because we are in the rainy season and many are sick here. Rain continues to fall almost all day long, but we still continue to do what God has entrusted into our hands to do. We were still able to send out students for weekend evangelism to different locations. As I am writing this mail now the students are back on campus soaked with rain and tired because of the bad roads.

Another sad thing in Cameroon now is that our government has increased fuel prices that have affected all basic commodities. This has greatly affected the common man and many cannot afford hospital bills even though they are severely sick. It is sad as I write this with tears that many will die because of the hardship that the government is inflicting on people. If all prices have an increase it means even house rents will go up. The only thing which will remain as God made will be air, which if many do not eat well, then it will not be good on their health. Please, please pray for us. Transportation is high, the government has given an in-significant increase to the salary of civil servants for 5 percent and the question is how many Cameroonians are working with the government? Please pray for us.

The first consignment of Mission Printing tracts arrived at Bamenda in the Northwest region of Cameroon. I took several cartons there and the preacher, Prince Otobong, is sharing it bit by bit to meet the needs of many congregations. It was a big blessing for us to get these tracts to this vast area which we will send some more in the weeks ahead. Keep praying that it touches and transforms the lives of many.

My trip to the Northwest region was for two purposes: to officiate on the funeral program of a sister who died there and also to distribute tracts to preachers there. Two are better than one. I traveled along side one of our graduates, evangelist Ititi Benedict, who was also discovering the work in many areas. Oh, oh, Jesus said “The field is ripe, ready for harvest, but the laborers are few. As we traveled to the village to do the funeral program, we passed through many villages and we met villages where some identified themselves that they are members of the church of Christ, but they are not worshipping because the church of Christ is not in their village, generally because they were baptized some where. One village we visited is called, Befang. The church here died about 23 years ago. We saw one fallen brother who came to us weeping, “please, please come and help us, I am not able to help the church start again, please, come and help.” This is another Macedonian call in our time. Who will answer this call? It is about 500 miles away from Wotutu whereby we cannot do it as we are doing to Dikome, Koba and other villages on weekend basis. We are planning to send one of our students there this September for a campaign. Please come join us.

I preached at the funeral of sister Jennete Kang, in Weh village. We have a small, poor struggling congregation there with less than 7 Christians, made up of mostly women. They cried when they heard about having many evangelists in training. What will they do to help get a preacher to them? Who will answer this question? I praise God for them that they continue to worship, but they are suffering from spiritual malnutrition. Please, we need to get a preacher, by His grace, in that pulpit. Come join us.

In that village the dominant denomination is Roman catholic. I preached and we gave tracts to many who were so interested to know more about the church of Christ. Those who are literate read from the tract about infant baptism. Many thanks to Mission Printing for these tracts to us and all those who were part to making it possible for them to get to us. It will touch many lives.

The Lord added brother, Jean Baptist, to the congregation in Wotutu. Another French speaking person obeyed the gospel and we need more French Bibles now in my office to give to French converts. Our early morning program with the multilingual exercise kept carrying the message to all. Keep him in your prayers to grow as the congregation here continues to feed him with a balanced diet.

Brother Maurice baptized sister Bledine into Christ. She is also French speaking, maybe we shall have a French service some day as the French speaking population keeps increasing. Keep her in your prayers. The husband was the brother that was baptized last week. Keep them in your prayers to keep growing.

It was also a time to meet with other preachers from Nigeria who came for the funeral because the sister was in Nigeria, so it was nice to share passions and visions with them concerning the work we are doing.

Plans
Preparing for a place to meet and worship, which was not concluded, delayed the establishment of the congregation in Isokolo. We are still hoping this week to see how we can put all things in place.

Appreciations
God bless you, your family and the congregation for your love for the work here. We thank you for your timely support and prayers. If not for you, the work would not have been the way it is. We thank you for accepting God’s call to be part of this work, winning souls for the Lord and nurturing those in Christ to remain faithful and depend only on God. Keep praying for us as we pray for you. Do your best to share this with others in your life. God bless you till we meet again, God’s willing.

Elangwe and family
By His grace Director CBIW

Preparing For The 50 Year Celebration...

We continue to enjoy our travels, seeing wonderful brothers and sisters who support the work, and sharing the great news from the Extension Program. This Sunday, were we able to visit with two congregations in Morrilton. We always enjoy seeing good friends and family, and watching their excitement as they learn about the ways God is blessing the work around the world.

The reports this week emphasize a small part of what is continually happening in great ways at the various locations where Bear Valley is able to work with brethren in training “faithful men who will teach others also” (2 Tim. 2:2). The good that is done by these brethren, as God gives the increase, is what makes reading the reports each week so refreshing.

Upon our return to Denver, later in the month, we will be finalizing plans for the biggest staff retreat the Extension program has seen. As we near the 50th year celebration of training preachers, we intend to make this retreat special with a focus on where we have been, where we are, and where we are headed in the future of the work. A little secret…this is going to be big!

We are looking forward to sharing news about the growth and development of the program in astounding ways. Plan to join us and share in the fellowship as we kick off the new school year with a special focus on Bear Valley’s work in Denver and the work where we partner with others around the world.

Now on to the other reports...

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

Below is the latest report from Steven Ashcraft about the work in West Africa.

Extension Reports 

Carrying French Bibles To French Converts: The work of the students during the campaigns is extending the work throughout Cameroon.

An Interesting Trip and Students Prepare For New Enrollment: Francis experienced an interesting trip out of the country, and the enrollment grows for a new class.

The 12th Annual Bible Lectureship Is Forthcoming: A visiting instructor and an upcoming lectureship is planned for SWSE in Nigeria.

BVBIU Moves To Ternopil, Ukraine: Amidst the recent challenges in Ukraine, the school is temporarily moving the Western Ukraine.

The Influence Of NIBS In Nepal Is Growing: The news is exciting in Nepal as the influence of the school is helping the various congregations in and around Kathmandu.

About 800+ More Reasons To Read This Report: A 7-Year report from one of the graduates and other reports demonstrate why extension training is so powerful.

Report From A Graduate Of ACSOP: News from Yusuph about the work of one graduate in his work with the church is encouraging.

God’s Providence Works To Bring One To Christ: A very interesting situation of events brings a security guard back in touch with the gospel in Arusha, Tanzania.

Final Thoughts 
With a heart filled with gratitude, we give thanks to our God for each of you. Your participation in the work is the heart and soul of it all. We cannot thank you enough for all you do to help make this work what it is today. We are looking forward to an incredible year ahead, and walking with you along the way makes it that much sweeter.

God bless
Bob

God's Providence Works To Bring One To Christ...

Several months ago, I told you about the security guards in our area. To review, there are a number of security gates in the area that we pass through on a regular basis. It has been our practice to preach the Gospel "as we go" into all the world. In other words, we like to look for doors for evangelism in our everyday interactions. The guards rotating through these security gates provide a constant supply of prospects that I encounter on every venture from the house. In the past I have told you about how much I like sharing correspondence courses and tracts because they easily help overcome the language barrier that I face. There is no telling how far these materials reach by the time they are passed from person to person. 

The first of these guards that I met after we moved into our house back in December was a man by the name of Elibariki Daniel. We exchanged pleasantries regularly and built a friendly relationship. I frequently gave him Bible tracts which he accepted gratefully. Unfortunately, he was transferred to another post before things were able to progress beyond that. All I could do was hope that the seeds planted would take root one day.

Then, about a month ago he was rotated back to our area. I was thrilled to see him again! He quickly completed a 12-lesson correspondence course, and was ready for more. We arranged for a visit to his home for a personal Bible study with Elibariki and his wife, Rachel. We traveled far up the side of Mt. Meru. We even traveled beyond where the dirt road ends. I was actually driving on a mountainside footpath, going where no SUV had ever gone before. I marveled at how far this man traveled to work each day on his bicycle. With the help of Ahimidewe, the evangelist at the Kisongo congregation, we had a great Bible study, searching the scriptures for the answers to their questions. When we were finished, the couple recognized their need for baptism - but they weren't ready yet. Tomorrow, maybe.

So the next day I checked in with him. He said he would when he got off of work that day. So we made arrangements, but when I went to pick him up I found that he had a family emergency to attend to. Hoping that he didn't just have cold feet, I prayed that everything would be okay. 

Then this morning I received this text message, "Hi Mr. Daniel. It's me Elibariki. How about today to be baptized?" I couldn't have been happier! There is never a better time than today to be baptized! Arrangements were made, and this evening I had the pleasure of watching this young man be baptized into Christ Jesus. 

Before we parted ways for the evening, he assured me of Rachel's intentions to be baptized as well. I pray that faith continues to grow in this small household, and that God blesses them. 

Daniel

To see the report with pictures of Elibariki, please click here.

Report From A Graduate Of ACSOP...

CONGREGATIONS APRIL – JUNE

We give thanks to God for many things in our life especial in his work God help and give us strength to do his work.

The work of God in this place of Western Zone in Tanzania continues to grow in number and spiritual day after day.

EVANGELISM
God has added 3 souls in this three months one soul from Kahama congregation and 2 souls at Ushirombo Town congregations. We are continuing with students with various people in all congregations at Western part. But te work continue to be hard because of many challenges example transport, it needs much money to travel from Ushirombo to another place, also we are  planning o Evangelize and establish new congregation at Shinyanga region so we are in preparations.

EDIFICATION
The church continue to teach the Youth each Saturday and we give thanks to God because we have observed that we need to prepare the youth so that they may become good teachers and preachers for the future. The church makes efforts for this program.

Also we have restore one soul, for now the attendance at Ushirombo Town is increasing in number maximum 65 – 81 for this season, As a preacher I make sure to be watchful because unruly men increasing and for now there are one brother is under discipline the reason he went to court to accuse his fellow Christian and the church. The Church worn him two times but he rejected to follow the advice of the Church.

THE DEATH OF MY BLOOD FATHER AT KOROGWE
On 27th April, 2014 my father had passed away at Korogwe after suffering with diabetes for long time the burial was on 29th April, 2014 at home Korogwe, I gave thanks to God he had obeyed the Gospel since August 2013 and he had stay in Christianity in 7 months and all the time he was on the bd. The few new Christians at Korogwe (New Congregation) had part look the Lord super and him each Sunday, and my father he was among the new members who started this new congregation. I believe I will see him at the heaven. On July I will be Korogwe for finishing this problem, and some classes of Bible.

THE BIG CHALLENGES
The big challenges which took place for all congregations is lack of preachers, but we have some preachers who finish school of preaching, are lossed to help me on outside of Ushirombo because is no any means of supporting them. My prayers to God is to open the door for my congregations or sponsors at America to support them; also I argue all Christians who have ability to support them to do so, because we have many congregations that they are no yet matured preachers but we have preachers. The congregation at Ushirombo for now have no ability to support them.

Another challenge is lack of permanent place where worship can be done but we give thanks to God that we have Rent some place s after receiving the helpful from cystarfford, but my opinion is better than to have Land of this congregations as Kahama, Mganza, Katoro, Korogwe, Nsuve also Magu and Nyamigota.

As a preacher my plan is to ask money for three challenges that Transport, Land and Support for these preachers, if these three challenges be solved kindly we will bring another good results  the the Kingdom God.

I continue to give many thanks to my supporter Frank, Ernest, David and Mark I believe God will bless you abundance for this good work for supporting me and my family but I request if possible to increase some money because my responsibilities in my family is increasing and the life is too tough for moment I can’t perform any work because all congregations depending on me to take them care, so I make follow up time after time. I believe God will find any means to you; God may bless your families.

Also I continue to give thanks to the older men cotton and green all who strive to see this work continue.

God may bless you all.

Your’s in Christ
Yusuph

About 800+ More Reasons To Read This Report...

Greetings Fellow Servants,

Let me begin with the end. I just got back to the house from the ACSOP, where I witnessed a young married man put Christ on in baptism. Daniel has been studying with this new brother for several months. What a perfect way to end the day. We thank you for caring enough to pray and support God’s work here in Tanzania. Your caring has aided in the salvation of this new brother. 

Field Reports: 
Our good brother Jackson who serves as the minister and evangelist for the Manyire congregation (a church plant of the Usa River congregation) visited our home this week and gave a good report on the work where he serves. The Lord has added 7 souls to the Kingdom over the past two months. The community Health Officer paid them a visit this past week and issued a two week notice to begin work on a Choo (outdoor restroom), now that’s not something you have happen every day!

Yusuph Mdaki: “A 7 Year Report” - “On April 2007 I arrived at Ushirombo with my family and started this work. We have planted 13 congregations, 3 not doing well because of the lack of preachers. More than 800 souls have obeyed. Six bothers have joined the Andrew Connally School of Preaching, one brother is now in the school. Our greatest challenges: 1. Permanent places of worship. 2. A lack of preachers. Our great blessing, you our fellow Christians praying and supporting God’s work here in Tanzania.”

Maurice Gasper: “We are doing good here at Njiro Chini, after 16 souls have been baptized during last campaign. Last week we had another soul baptized named Samweli. Let’s keep praying.”

Raymond (Uganda): “After more than one year of studies, a pentecostal preacher was baptized and added to the true Kingdom of God, by God Himself.”

A special plea for our good brother Clement. Clement is the evangelist serving the Karatu congregation (the last township before your get to the Ngorogoro Conservation area) is a widower with seven children. His wife passed away giving birth to their last born. Clement has managed to cover all schools fees except for his son Jefthah. In order for him to return to school he needs $250 for the year. If anyone sees fit to help this faithful brother, we would be very grateful. 

We thank our God for all His is doing here in East Africa. We thank each of you for your part in this grand mission effort of the Lord. Till all have heard...

In Him,
Cy, Stephanie and Granny

The 12th Annual Bible Lectureship Is Forthcoming...

Dearest in Christ ,

Greetings from SWSE Ibadan, Nigeria. We are having a busy week in teaching and preparing our students toward the one month teaching practice that, by God's grace, will commence between July 12 through August 10, 2014, Lord's willing.

The classes in this semester are from 8:15 am through 6:00 pm in the evening with a short break from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

Our 12th annual Bible lectureship of August 21-23, 2014 will centered on “Christian and Politics” and the 11th graduation of 23 men and a sister will witness the present of brother Ralph Williams of BVBI Lord's willing!

Thanks for your great contribution toward the continuity of this great program. Thanks and God bless.

Sincerely yours in Christ,
Makinde

The Influence of NIBS In Nepal Is Growing...

As the first half of 2014 now lies behind us, we look back on six months of progress in many areas for the church in Nepal. There is no doubt in anyone’s mind that the last four and one-half years, since the establishment of the Nepal Center For Biblical Study [NCBS] was opened in January 2010, have seen more progress than any other time in the history of the church in Nepal. NCBS is touching the spiritual lives of many more Christians than just the students attending our regular classes.

Our first group of students [2010-2011] produced 5 graduates. The second group numbered 6 graduates. Presently we have 12 full time students scheduled to graduate in late 2015. We even have 4 students from India and more waiting to enroll for the 2017 graduating class. Our graduate students, plus the campaigns we do in their home areas, are our best method of public relations. “You shall know them by their fruits.”

There are three major ministries through the school:

1. The regular two-year teaching/study program for our full time students.

2. One-week [sometimes two] campaigns to areas outside the Kathmandu Valley. Gajendra, the NCBS Director, some teachers, and the students work in close harmony with the local church leaders during these outings.

3. Four times each year we bring preachers and leaders from all over Nepal into Kathmandu for a full week of special classes. These classes are often taught by visiting foreign preachers, yet we also have at least one class each year taught wholly by Nepali preachers. The fellowship is equally cherished along with the teaching.

Every October [National Hindu Holidays] we have a Teen & Young Adult Class/Camp. Young people from many parts of Nepal, and now India also, come together for Bible study, fellowship, and Christian fun with their peers. The greatest compliments we receive are from the parents when they return home.

Last July we had two visiting preachers and their wives come for two weeks. The wives taught some ladies Bible classes in Kathmandu and also in east Nepal. The reception was so overwhelming that it was decided to initiate a WOMEN TEACHING WOMEN outreach. Officially this is not a direct part of the school and receives separate funding. However, school sponsored programs led to this program. Sunita, who was the translator last July, is the most active teacher, including going to villages that require all-night bus rides.  

Our students lead monthly Teen & Young Adult classes at my home [Jerry]. These classes, as well as all our classes [campaigns, Kathmandu classes, women] are set up to encourage individual study before coming to class. This leads to more discussion, questions/answers, and more active personal learning, which have a greater impact when the class members return home.

Some preachers and congregations that initially gave the school a very “cool” reception are now active and enthusiastic supporters. We can’t accept all the invitations we receive for campaigns, classes, and fellowship. That is a nice problem to have. The progress has been and continues to be noticeable to the church community in Nepal. This encourages and motivates us for the work that lies ahead.  

Please remember us in your prayers.

Jerry Golphenee            jrgx21958@gmail.com
Gajendra Deshar, Director        gajendra_deshar@yahoo.com

BVBIU Moves To Ternopil, Ukraine...

...Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life?... (James 4:14)

Hello dear brothers, families and churches.

The Bible Institute moves to Ternopil.

So it's almost a month since that horrible event when armed insurgents took the building where the Bible Institute and the church were. Until now there are armed people in our building who keep it under their control. My family and I were forced to leave Gorlovka and move to Ternopil. It's situated at the center of Western Ukraine. There are very few churches of Christ in this part of the country. Maybe it was God’s plan to spread the gospel and help churches in this part of the country.

Ternopil is a regional center with the population of more than 250,000 people. The city grows annually. There are many new buildings, parks and a wonderful climate. The people who live here speak Ukrainian and love their country and culture.

During June I was looking for an appropriate place for the Institute. I visited local churches of Christ. Some of them were willing to help us, but they didn’t have enough space. They were offering help to those who had to flee for their lives. I’ve had many meetings with the owners of offices and buildings. Some of them were cautious with me because I’m from Eastern Ukraine; others were afraid that Christians would be meeting on their property. The main religions in this territory are Catholicism and Eastern Orthodox. However the Lord has blessed me with an opportunity to find a small good place in the residential district area for quite a reasonable price. Now the Bible Institute will stay in Ternopil for a year, and we’ll see what happens next. The military action might be over by the end of the summer, but there will be still a lot of arms circulating among the population. There will be acts of terrorism and racketeering. Police will have to do a lot of work to disarm the population. Thank you for your prayers and assurance in the future of the Institute. During the next two months I will be actively looking for new students. It’s very difficult to predict the results since our country is still in the state of stress and shock. Yet the work of God should be continued.

A few words about the graduates of 2014.

Alexey Mitskutis, his wife Alina and their daughter Ulyana moved to Russia. Alexey was offered a preacher’s position at the church of Christ in Ukhta. We pray for his ministry and work in this church to bring fruits, and his actions would recruit new students for the Institute. 

Vladimir Didukh moved back to his hometown Ivano-Frankivsk (Western Ukraine). He preaches at the church there, helps brethren in their ministry and participates in spreading humanitarian aid. 

Pavel Glinskiy ministers at the church in Krasnoarmeysk and plans on starting a church in his hometown where he has many relatives. 

Pavel Tuznichenko ministers in Ivano-Frankivsk, preaches the gospel there and assists in spreading the humanitarian aid. 

Vlad Borisenko helps the church in Krasnoarmeysk. 

Katya Kadenko moved to Ternopil because of the military actions in her hometown, and she helps the Bible Institute and the church here. 

Katya Gayvoronskaya helps her husband in his ministry. 

Thank you for your help and support of the Bible Institute’s work. We are grateful for your prayers and ask you to continue praying for peace in Ukraine. 

Your brother and coworker for the Lord’s cause,
Dennis Sopelnik

To see Dennis' report with pictures, please click here.

An Interesting Trip And Students Prepare For New Enrollment...

Dear brethren,

I do thank you very much for the work you are doing for the spread of the gospel in East and Central Africa. Since the graduation in the month of May, we have been busy with the preparation for another intake. The ladies did not come as we had planned. Three of our ladies had given birth and their kids were still young. We plan to bring them after the Alumni seminar in September. On the 25th of June 2014 I left for Congo and arrived on the 28th of June 2014 at around mid day and from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm I was able to teach the brethren at Uvira. On the 29th of June 2014 I continued with my teachings during the worship.

After worship, brother Samuel Akilimali, one of our graduates, invited me for lunch at his home. His wife prepared a very nice meal of cassava flour bread with (kisafu) young cassava leaves cooked together with dried fish and a dish of fried meat. After that heavy lunch we jumped on a motor bike heading to Baraka in Fizi District. From Uvira to Baraka is 95 kilometers. For almost 70 kilometers the road was very rough with stones and holes and broken bridges.

We had two bursts during this travel to Baraka and because of that we arrived at around 8:00 pm. Brother Mtendjwa, the preacher of Baraka and the evangelist in Fizi District, brought us supper. After we had finished our supper, we had a knock at the door. When we opened it was the District security officer in charge of Fizi District, he had booked in the third room from my room where we were all  sitting. He asked for my passport and I told him that it was detained at the border. I gave him the visa which they had given me at the border. After reading through he told me that I was not allowed to be in Baraka. He said the visa only allowed me to be in Uvira and then back to the border. He told me not to leave the room until I meet him in the morning. He went with my visa. In the morning at around 7:00 am we had a discussion with him, he told me that I have a case to answer. I must tell him why I was in Baraka while the visa was stating that I was to stop in Uvira. We pleaded with him and he said that he can forgive me if I will pay $100 dollar or else I should be taken to the police and record a statement. He checked in my bags and also opened up my computer and also checked my camera and looked for every photo I had taken. He checked all documents in my computer. After all that we gave him what he wanted and he told me that I should not have another night in Baraka. After that brother Mtendjwa brought us breakfast, but I did not have an appetite for it. I was cleared at around 10:00 am and went where the brethren were  waiting for me to give them a word of God. Two brothers had traveled from Kilembwe on motor bike which is 250 kilometers from Baraka where we had a seminar on World Evangelism.

One of the brothers is a court prosecutor who working in Baraka courts was taught the truth by brother Mtendjwa. He was later transferred to Kilembwe courts. He did not keep the word of God for himself. He shared with people which resulted in a church in that area. He called for brother Mtendjwa to go and baptize them.

Brother Mtendjwa and his wife, after the support stopped, he did not stop preaching, even this new congregation was planted when he was no longer getting any support. Before he was staying in two rooms, but he was later chased away from those two rooms as he could not afford paying $30 dollars every month. He took me where he is staying, I saw what made me shed tears. He is staying in a room which is 6ft by 8ft. I only saw a mattress and  three chairs squeezed together.

To come out of this problem, he told me that he has managed to purchase a plot, but he does not have funds to build on it. He is pleading for help that he may erect a small house which can cost $1,000 dollars.

The church in Baraka did make a contract with one member, brother Veza, who rented them a space to build  a small church building for a period of five years. It now has 2 years remaining and the contract will end.

This is the only congregation in Congo with something they can call a worshiping place. They have built although on a rented land.

After I had taught three lessons on World Evangelism, we had our lunch, beans and rice. We started our journey to return to Uvira. From Uvira I used a taxi which took me to the Burundi border. When I reached the border I presented my visa to the officer who was on duty. He asked me where my passport was and I told him that the officer who was on duty when I was coming remained with it. He went and looked for it and handed it back to me after stamping on it. He  warned me not to accept next time to leave my passport behind, as it is not lawful. I wondered which did the other officer used to detain my passport. I know now next time I will be very careful. I arrived in Bujumbura at 7 pm. I went and booked the morning bus to Kampala. I had asked the bus people for a hotel where I could spend a night. They told me to wait for them so that we may all stay in one hotel so that we come together in the morning. They called for a Hotel taxi which came for us. Very early in the morning we took another taxi to the bus station. The bus left at 6:30 am central Africa time and arrived in Kampala at 11:30 pm East Africa time. I had to look for a guest house near the Jaguar Bus terminal. In the morning at 10:00 pm I boarded a Busia taxi at the old taxi park. I arrived in Busia 2:30 pm very tired but thankful to God for a safe trip back home on the 3rd of July 2014. I found my wife Margaret doing fine. I am now working on plans to inform all the applicants to report for interviews on the 15th of July 2014. Those who will be accepted will stay behind waiting for the opening day on the 21st of July 2014. We request your prayers for the Lord’s work in Busia, Uganda.

Yours In Christ
Francis Wechesa

Carrying French Bible To French Converts...

Dearest in Christ,

Greetings from Cameroon. We do hope this mail will meet you in good health. Life is going on well here even though with many of our brethren and students being sick. The climate is really disturbing many here, but we hope it will soon pass.

I am sending my normal Sunday report on Saturday because a preacher who was in Nigeria lost his wife and the funeral will be on Monday, about 450 miles away and I am invited to speak, so that is why I am sending my report for the week now. The village I will start traveling to after worship tomorrow does not have internet service.

This past week in CBIW and the Wotutu congregation went well, just for the fact of many being sick. God is still doing His work through our hands perfectly.

Our students are back and classes are going on smoothly. We give thanks to God for His usual help. As I wrote this email (yesterday). After classes, students who were assigned for weekend evangelism, left late because of the torrential down pour of rain. We think souls and we know the only way to rob from the strong man’s house is to go for souls. That is why weather conditions do not affect our goal and passion. With the bad road, because of rain, students will really struggle to get to places like Dikome and Koba, but we must go to nurture and build the church. So the outcome of this weekend will be your way next week’s report.

Our student, brother Mbappe, a French speaking student, carried French Bibles to French converts. He is doing a great job. Keep our mission in your prayers.

In the Wotutu congregation last Sunday, God blessed and added two precious souls into His family in Wotutu. Brother Joseph Ntoko was baptized. Keep his wife in prayer, as she was furious with the husband accepting the gospel. We have started studies with her and she has calmed down. We have hopes that, God willing, she will obey pretty soon.

Another French speaking brother, Jean Paul, also obeyed the gospel last Sunday evening. Our multilingual morning program helps many to understand the gospel on “Back to the Bible” program. We are still very grateful for the Mission Printing tracts which we are using to build up studies with many in Wotutu now.

Plans
1) Next weekend, most of the students will be in Isokolo Village for the establishment of a new congregation. We have hope because we have many studies going on with Mission Printing tracts and many keep appreciating God’s words on the printed page. Reaching out and touching precious souls to come back to God and if the church is established it will be the second congregation in the entire west coast of Cameroon. The first one was established in Batoke by CBIW. We thank God for the work of reaching out to souls. That is the joy in the work. I will take more tracts to the Northwest region as I travel toward that area for the funeral.

 2) We are also planning for another campaign in Lebialem. A sister is crying and calling on us to come over to that area and help.

Appreciations
Thank you for all that you do for the Lord through us. God alone will bless you and reward you. If not for you, I doubt where and how this work would have been possible. God alone will reward you when is it time. Do your best to share this with many in your life.

Elangwe and family
By His grace Director  CBIW

Sharing The News About Extension Training...

As each week goes by, we are encouraged by the brethren we meet with to share the news about the extension program. Today, we met with brethren in Conway and Enola, Arkansas to present the work and the encouragement we received from our brothers and sisters is what makes the work even more exciting. The summer is full with more appointments in the weeks ahead, but we look forward to seeing everyone.

News from the schools reporting this week is even more exciting. Each report contains information that explains why we are so privileged to work with the dedicated men who are preparing themselves to serve the church in greater ways. Before they graduate, their involvement in sharing the gospel with others where they live continues to demonstrate the power of God who gives the increase.

The exciting nature of this work is also seen in the increased interest of men who desire to be involved in the next enrollment class. Nearly every school we have visited with reports more students for the next intake of students. Word is getting out and more students only means that more people will learn about Jesus where they live. 

Each of you are part of this growth. Our prayer is that as you read through each report you will be encouraged and grow with excitement at what God is doing in and through the extension training program.

Now on to the other reports...

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

Extension Reports 

Another Successful Campaign In Cameroon: Students are returning to CBIW after a great week of campaign work where numerous souls were brought to the Lord.

Marks Of True Discipleship: Jerry Bates recently visited the Southwest School of Evangelism and taught a class designed to address the marks of a true disciple.

48 Reasons To Read This Report: As the Safari for Souls campaign draws to a close, the report this week speaks about the 48 souls who are now part of the Lord’s kingdom.

Taking The Messiah To The Masai: The news from Arusha, Tanzania, shared by Daniel Gaines, talks about the message of Jesus going to a special group of people.

Final Thoughts 
What a great week! What an awesome God we serve! We are so thankful to Him for the blessing you are to this work. Your willingness to be a tool in the hands of the Almighty God continues to be a critical reason for the growth and development of this program. Thank you for all you do through the sacrifices you make for the Lord’s work.

God bless
Bob

48 Reasons To Read This Report...

Greetings Fellow Servants,

Thanks be to God for all He is, all He does and to all He has yet to do. Thank you all for your love and prayers for God’s work here in Tanzania. He continues to give the increase and He continues to open doors of opportunities. 

Wow, what a month! Our summer Safari for Souls campaign efforts are coming to a close. The follow-up work in underway and the good done and being done, only God knows the fullness of it. This much we do know, our short term co-workers have come and gone, hundreds of Bibles put into the hands of the people. Hundreds of one-on-one Bible studies were conducted and continue. Tens of thousands of Bible tracts handed out and hundreds of Bible Correspondence Courses signed up and on going. Many lives blessed by acts of love, food, one thousand mosquito nets, etc. 

Why all the work, simple, “For God so loved the WORLD, He gave.....” God gave and so should we. As a good brother once said, “the secret to successful evangelism in a word; WORK.” When God’s Word goes out to the people, it does not return void. God has blessed this summers SFS effort by increasing the ranks of the Kingdom by adding 48 SOULS. Restorations have also taken place and the congregations in the Arusha and Moshi area have been edified. 

A very special thanks to every campaigner and to all our good friends and supporters making it possible for each servant to come. We know we are able to return the good by our working together and by our creating (with God’s help) a conducive working environment. Lives are changed for the good and the Church in America is built up by the life changing trip to do God’s will here in East Africa. 

If you have ever considered going on a mission trip abroad, won’t you consider joining us next year, doing God’s will, saving souls, and changing lives eternally, including your own. 

Please remember our Elk City, OK group as they return home and also Jonathan Page who will travel this week to work with the Kilimanjaro congregation in Moshi. 

A Personal Plea: I will be coming to America for my Fall fundraising trip. I have also been invited to speak at Polishing The Pulpit on missions while in the States. I will also have the privilege of attending the Bear Valley Extension School retreat in Denver where reports on the various works are given and plans for future expansions are discussed. I request your prayers for my travels and for Stephanie and Granny while we are separated. I am also in need of travel funds, making this all possible. Any help toward this need of $3,500 would be greatly appreciated. 

Till all have heard....

In Him,
Cy, Stephanie and Granny