Souls saved in Malawi

Bear Valley Bible Institute - Ekwendeni

March Report

 Great joy! We are glad to share the joy we have as a Bear Valley Bible institute – Ekwendeni (Malawi). The Lord is still using the school to keep the gospel reaching more souls. Within the period of one month, students have baptized 7 souls around Ekwendeni. We also have good news from Brother Saliwa Nkosi one of the former students from our school. He challenged one prominent member of Presbyterian who has been a member of this denomination since 1976. But when she met our former student, whom I nicknamed him as a weapon of mass destruction as far as preaching door to door is concerned, she didn’t resist the power of the gospel to save her. She is our sister in Christ now! This happened on Sunday as brother Saliwa was on his way to worship and the denomination member was also on her way to worship, it happened just as it was with Philip and the Eunuch in Acts chapter 8. Instead of proceeding to worship God unacceptably she changed her mind and was baptized, at the same time asked the preacher man to allow her go to worship with the Christian family, tthe Lord’s church. He, has baptized 3 souls in total this month. What a joy to share! The gospel truly is the power to save – Romans 1:16. As we are rejoicing, we know full well that there’s great joy in heaven, for one soul saved.

Teaching

As we are cruising to the end of our first semester, many courses have so far being taught. So far 9 courses have been taught. In two weeks time, we are hosting Brother Navie Theu again to teach Hebrew History this time as short course. We are always happy to have him teach. He is such a good teacher. More to this we are very proud of our students who are always ready to learn and demonstrate a Christ like spirit. The student’s reputation is all over Ekwendeni congregations for their zeal to teach and preacher to the lost souls.

Outreach

We are more than happy to share our joy over the saved souls this period of one month. Due to hard working spirit of our student, using their weekend time, have managed to lead 7 souls to Christ and some more restored to Christ, while brother Saliwa Nkosi our former graduate has shared us the good news that he has baptized 3 souls.  We give glory and praise to God for the job done. We are also reaching to some young congregations with communion cups, trays and Bibles in local language. Brother Dale Kastner a missionary in the central region of Malawi gave us Bibles in local language of Chitumbuka to be given to poor village Christians who could be able to memorize all the books of the Bible as a condition to have one for free. This has also helped to put the name of the school on the map.

We are very thankful to Bear Valley International for your many prayers and support! We still need your involvement. On our own, we could not reach where we are. Help us praying for transport, as we need a car of a van type to use it going preaching door to door as the potential is high. We have requested to go and strengthen young congregations in some areas in our district and beyond. We have one place where we have also been called to plant a church but transport is a challenge. We believe God is able and God will help us what we “need” not what we want!

The song of the month, “Lead me to some soul to-day; o teach, me Lord just what to say; friends of mine are lost in sin, and cannot find their way. Few they are who seem to care, and few they are who pray; melt my heart and fill my life: give me one soul to-day.” The one who wins soul is wise! Rise up and join us reach many. Eternity is Forever, Think Souls!

In His service,

Ephron and Clergynton

ITL Lectureship is a success

This year marked the 10th anniversary of the lectureship at Instituto Teologico Latinoamericano (ITL) in Guatemala City, Guatemala. It was my pleasure to attend the President’s banquet and also the lectureship. Hawathia Jones and Byron Benitez, both Bear Valley alumni, have been in Guatemala City for 19 years and have done untold good in that time.

The lectureship was outstanding, with excellent topics and a through exposition of 1 John. A number of speakers were from the U.S. and did a great job with their passages. The lectureship was very well attended and I am confident all benefited greatly from having attended.

A new class in Liberia

GREETINGS BRETHREN

Everyone connected to Bear Valley in Liberia extends their sincere greetings to you and appreciate you for all you are doing for the Lord in this part of the world. 

1st Quarter Completed

We are happy to inform you that our second batch of students just completed the 1st quarter lesson for the 1st year program. The quarter went well with all the staff playing their parts very well and our remaining 23 students taking nothing for granted. Beside their class room work, they were involved with weekends evangelism in the communities around the school . The month of February has been very successful so far.

AGRICULTURE

Our second batch are also introduced to the studies of agriculture as it was with the first set of students and they are taking it very serious. They are preparing the ground for the upcoming rainy season as seen in the photos.

CLOSING STATEMENT

We appreciate highly your continued support and prayers for this work in Liberia. With all the economic challenges in this part of the world, we are still grateful that with your help we are able to do the Lord's will. We won't have don't this work without your involvements. Thank you so much for your love for God and your desires to see His will on earth be done.

Thank You,

Your Brother For Christ Sake,

Robert P. Dahn, Jr.

Director-Bear Valley Bible Institute- Liberia

An update from Tamale

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE, TAMALE GHANA

TAMALE GHANA

FEBRUARY REPORT 2019

We again sincerely express our profound heartfelt gratitude to you all for your prayer and support for successful operation of the school through the two year study and learning. May God who owns all things grant you your heart desire in all you do to enable you extend that same helping hand to other brethren like us in Africa for the expansion of His Church.

STUDENTS ON VACATION

As reported last month, the remained course was treated and the test conducted. Students are on three weeks break and will be back on 4th March 2019 to finish their last four courses for the two year study. It is our prayer and hope that these students will be back safely to finish these courses in good faith.

ADMINISTRATIVE WORK

All things are working together for good in the school when it comes to teaching and learning as well as recruitment for students. God has enabled us fished out twenty legitimate students, interviewed and filled and more five yet to come for interview. We also visited Land Commission on school / Church land documents completion and they assured us that the documents would be completed in due time.

May the peace and joy of God rest upon you all.

Yours beloved in Christ

Graduation in Mbanga

Things are going great in Mbanga Cameroon. The last few weeks were filled with many activities and celebrations. Brother Todd Crayton taught the final short course entitled, “Marriage and Family.” Following the class, there was a great celebration of marriage along with the registration of the marriages with the country of Cameroon. The couples had already followed the traditional marriage customs but took the opportunity to register with the state and celebrate with the church.

It is always great to have souls added to the kingdom. Pray for Juliette as she grows in the faith. The water is flowing well in the campus from the water tower. An addition filter for drinking water is not necessary but caution is always a good measure. The outdoor toilet is for the congregation and visitors as the inside toilets are reserved for the students.

The soon to be graduates were gave a defense of their research to the staff. They did a great job. We are proud of the students and staff of BVBIC-Mbanga.

The Bear Valley Cameroon Alumni Association met in Mbanga. It was great to see about thirty graduates some from each of our schools. They meet quarterly, if possible, to do mass evangelism together. This was a special meeting close to graduation to elect new officers.

The campus is getting some new looks with new paint, tiles, room labels, and sign boards. It is good that the people of Mbanga can follow the new signs to the building.

Graduation and matriculation went great. We graduated 9 and admitted 16. The school is growing. We will have 6 students from the country of Chad and 4 students from the far north of Cameroon.  We are seeing our dream of spreading the gospel into French Africa coming to life. The chief of the village thanks us for the many amenities like a gravel road, a night light, and available water. He congratulated the students and staff for their success and influence.

The students received an Advanced Diploma in Biblical Studies and their wives received a Certificate of Completion of the Preachers’ Wife Program. We have sent them forth to win souls and nurture congregations.

I enjoy taking off my coordinator hat and my teacher hat and putting my brother in Christ hat to enjoy door to door evangelism with my brothers. It is such a blessing to go to work with these guys in the field. Even those who a starting their two years of training are already able to give a great defense of their faith. As always brother Todd did a great job of teaching and preaching.

Brother Clinton was converted in the Mbanga prison and is now a student at Wotutu. He was assigned to evangelism in Mbanga. He is helping some brethren find a pair of glasses that will allow them to read their Bible.

Brother Clinton’s wife Juliette is the one that was baptized by Todd. I went to the school where she is the discipline master and greeted many children and teachers. We pray that these community connections will also help in the winning of many souls.

We ask that you continue to pray for the work. We appreciate your support,

 In Him,

 David

New beginnings in Takoradi

We greet you all our dear sponsors and thank you most sincerely for keeping faith with us all through these years. We pray that all of you are doing well.

I am grateful and thankful to God for the opportunity to be sending reports on behalf of the West Coast School of preaching, Takoradi, Ghana, West Africa for the month of January and February, 2019. It has become necessary at this point for me to send the reports due to the absence of Brother Ebenezer Amable who was responsible for sending them.

Due to the administrative changes that took place in the school from the beginning of September 2018 followed by the long break in school work, the school re-opened on the 7th of January, 2019 with eight (8) new students. On re-opening, we needed to do general thorough cleaning in the school.

ORIENTATION FOR NEW STUDENTS

From the 8th to the 11th of January, 2019, the new students were taken through orientation for them to be conversant with what they are required to go through while in the school.

CLASSROOM WORK

Classes for both regular and part-time students began immediately the school re-opened.

EVANGELISM / BAPTISMS

The orientation for the new students included the need to continue evangelizing the area around the school. There was one  (1) baptism during the period. On re-opening, we agreed to revive the five (5) out of six (6 ) congregations which were established by the school. We were able to go to Sofokrom for which we now send some of the students to visit with the congregation.

OPERATING  REPORT FOR FEBRUARY 2019

CLASSROOM WORK

Classroom work for both regular and part-time students went on successfully. All students and instructors were on hand which resulted in a successful teaching and learning

CAMPAIGN FOR CHRIST

Students from the West Coast School of Preaching joined in a campaign for Christ at Ankaful near Cape Coast which was organized by the congregation at Ankaful. The campaign took the form of night-street preaching and personal evangelism during the day. By God’s grace we were blessed with seven (7) souls. Also, one of the students went to his village on one weekend, had personal studies with his prospects, and God rewarded his labor with one soul. 

POULTRY PROJECT

During the month of February, 2019, we took delivery of five hundred (500) day old birds on the 14th of the month. This is the 5th week and we thank God they are growing well. Attached are photos of them

Hope this brief information about the school’s activities from January to February will encourage the brethren, God bless you for your wonderful contribution.

Thank you.

Joshua Aidoo.

Graduation upcoming in Sierra Leone

Dear Brethren in the Vineyard,

We are glad to report to you our end of program and activities undertaken for the month of February in the field of evangelism in Kenema. We have completed a routine exercise of our new students admission in this month and preparing for the graduation of the outgoing students at the same time. 

ACTIVITY UNDERTAKEN

Student recruitment has been done by the Dean and Director in different regions taken the school to the less privileged and deprived communities for christ. We went as far as the northern part of Sierra Leone where there is less concentration of  churches of Christ on the ground.   Magburaka town in the Bombali District has given us three students to be trained whereas Freetown in the Penisular area has given us three to be trained as preachers for the Lord's work respectively.

In the southern and Eastern region we have eleven potential students to be trained this time again and all of them will be coming to school this academic year.  We have one student from KAMAKWIE far north a converted through the World Bible School lessons and  has apply for our course to further study God's word with us, two from Kenema.

EXPECTED OUTCOME

Students from these places  will take the gospel message to other parts of the country. This will give more room for church planting in the Lord Vine yard. More soul will be won for Christ in the vineyard..

RESTORATION MOVEMENT

The congregation at Lungi needed restoration and unless we intervened there will be no member to be saved under the Lord's church at that part of the vine yard. Because it has ceased its meetings due to lack of leadership to lead  its members. Most of the members  I spoke to said the congregation came to a stand still due to lack of leadership who will continue to teach and preach the undiluted word to them.

I visited the ground twice to see possible means of helping to  restore its old members and start the church through effort with a congregation in Freetown.

Suggestions were made with the church of christ at Tengbeh town in Freetown to send two preachers coming from Freetown to help evangelise  on saturdays and passes the night over there and preach on Sunday. As one preacher will not be enough to carry out this function we are asked to take care of an additional preacher by providing his travelling expenses which will cost (200.000) Which is equivalent to $25 monthly. Fifty thousand leones weekly inclusive lodging and feeding for a day which the preachers have already accepted in good faith for the sake of the gospel         

All these were suggestions put together to see how we could help restore a dying congregation in that part of the country where all the sheep had gone astray. There is an unfinished building standing there empty without utilizing it for the purpose it was built.  Most of the old members are willing to come back provided they have a preacher to feed the congregation. Our effort will not go in vain as we look forward to promote GOD'S work in this part of the Vine yard

GRADUATION PREPARATION

We are sending our students home to prepare themselves for the 13th of April to come and witness the graduation celebration.

At the same time preparing ourselves to receive our potential incoming students for the next intake of students for 2019/2020 program of studies on the 5th of April 2019 at our school campus in Kenema.

We have completed a round trip admission of twenty students for the  program this year. We hope all of them will turn up for school at the stipulated time. We will send their names on the next report after completing the final process of enrollment.

CONCLUSION

“A journey of a thousand mile begins with the first step”  We are almostly coming to the end of our journey with the help of you people who have supported our effort in taking us where we are today.

We will continue to pledge our loyalty in the lord as long as we live to see the school succeed in Sierra Leone in training preachers for the work.

We thank you all for putting your resources together to support our effort in training our country men for the service of God

SUBMITTED BY

ISHMAEL S.BANGURA

DIRECTOR BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE-SL

A guest teacher in Accra

Prologue:

Another new moon the Lord has made and seen us through massive activities successfully, may His name be honored forever and ever, Amen.

It is always appreciable for such a wonderful period with its trips, support in prayer and in kind. We extend our thankfulness to all brethren.

CLASS ACTIVITIES & TRAVIS HARDESTY’S VISIT

During our school activities we were blessed to have one of our brethren, bro. Travis Hardesty, where he partook immensely in the teaching of the course of Intertestamental Period of the Bible, both at the extension programme and the full time as short course.

With the much love for the progress of the school, he did not only impart knowledge but he also donated greatly to the  School by providing Air Condition for the instructor’s and guest room and a large Industrial Sink for use in the kitchen with its installation funds.

Furthermore, he visited the following churches: Achimota, Nsawam, Agona Swedru and Kasoa to exhort and teach them the way of the Lord.

STUDENT’S APPRECIATION TO HIS VISIT

To the students, he has been helpful to us for these first and second visit in Ghana, especial for the school. They also appreciated him with gift of Ghanaian dress by the full time and words of citation by the weekend students. We all say, may the Lord bless him.

BEREAVED KOJO ACQUAH

Sadly, and to thank our Lord for whatever happens in our lives, bro Kojo’s sister sadly passed away just some few months,  the staff and students joined in to mourn with him and the burial services. God being great in all things, we successfully brought it to a peaceful completion.

VISIT BY STEVEN, MAX ROBERTSON, MARK TUCKER AND THEIR WIVES

This is a wonderful visit I have ever experienced that brethren came to Ghana to evangelize and organize a programme for the Women Bible Class in Cape Coast, Chapel Hill Church of Christ, with their wives. This is impressive to have brethren evangelizing effectively both in house-to-house and public preaching.

To the glory of God, during the evangelism activities, I recorded seven (7) baptisms for the Lord’s church at Ankaful in Cape Coast. These faithful brethren worshipped with the congregation in Nsawam Adoagyiri Municipality, church of Christ-Adoagyiri, were the extension programme of BVBI is established thus “Sammy’s Congregation.” Our brothers participated in most of the church worship; Bible class, Exhortation, Prayers, the Lord’s Supper and Giving.

CONCLUSION

We humbly thank our Lord for all activities which He journey with us successfully. Greetings to you all both in Ghana and in USA for such wonderful love shown to us.

We always ask you to pray with us.

David Ballard visits Cameroon

Dearest in Christ,

Greetings from our beautiful Cameroon. We are doing the Master’s work with courage. We do hope this report finds you doing well.

Cameroon is still in crisis but the crisis cannot separate us from the love of God. That is why we are doing what we are doing with courage so that we shall not make excuses of any kind. We are pleading that you keep us in your prayers. We are confident that God is watching and will make things better for us as it pleases Him.

Last week in BVBIC-Wotutu was memorable as the EPSILON batch of students were able to complete the first quarter off their studies. They have left now with seven more quarters before graduation. They will conclude in a short the way that time flies. Please keep them in your prayers as they will be scattered to many villages and towns for mission work, evangelizing, and nurturing the Lord’s church. There are challenges that they will face but they are determined to go because even in this situation we find ourselves into now.

The students’ wives were in Wotutu for their very first class entitled, “BASIC BIBLE KNOWLEDGE.” I taught them the class. It was great and was characterized with questions to help give them a real picture of the Bible they believe in and that they will be teaching to others. We give many appreciations to sister Robin and elder Randy who took their time to composed that lesson. It is rich and has gone a long way to help these women as they prepare for ministry with their husbands. 12 of the 13 ladies attended. They are on their way to their different villages and are excitedly anticipating making it back to Wotutu in June.

PLANS

 We shall be in Mbanga for their second graduation ceremony on March 14. Our students will be out for two weeks and few days for mission work and vacation.

APPRECIATIONS

Thank you very much for all that you are doing for the work here. Our God will bless you and keep you strong as you continue to make the work here move.

Elangwe and family,

By His grace director BVBIC-Wotutu

Good things in Kenya!

This is the students report for the month of February and part of March 2019 at the Kenya School of Preaching, a branch of The Bear valley Bible Institute. We have twenty students that are currently being trained, three African Instructors (Charle  Ogutu, David Wesonga, Elias Omollo), and one American Instructor (Dr Michael P. Reese). 

The 20 students always go to evangelize the area around the Preaching School on weekends and visit local congregations and with their help 11 local congregations have been served, 65 bible classes established, 67 sermons preached, resulting in 8 baptisms and 7 individuals restored back to fellowship with the Lord. 

 At the preaching school, Charles has been teaching the Gospel according to Matthew and Hermeneutics Introduction. David has been teaching the book of Job and Elias Pentateuch Two. Dr. Reese has been teaching Godhead and Christian Evidences. The school closed on 15th March 2019 and will resume on April 15th 2019. 

Of the unique blessing we have at the school are the Mission Printing Inc. materials in a full container for the distribution and evangelism with local churches. The first container came in December 2018 and the second one came in March 7th 2019 with 1303 boxes of various kinds; these included 51  preacher boxes, 1229 boxes full of evangelical tracts, and boxes with books for the School Library. There were also in the container text books of different kinds like Dictionaries, Commentaries, Bible Concordances, Bible Encyclopedias, Bible Geographies, Children bibles with laminated Picture stories and many other good Sunday study materials. 

We have also received World Bible School Materials for evangelism, 42 boxes in total of the Lessons (Introductory Lesson, The Church, The Christian Life). Nixon Ochieng, one of our first graduates has committed himself to enrolling students into the World Bible School Program. The distribution activity began on 16th March 2019 around the Bible School area with the help of other two brothers. 

Different local congregations came to pick the tracts for evangelism and edification purposes. Local preachers from different congregations also came and are still coming to pick the preachers boxes. The number of local Churches that has already come to pick the tracts are 31, while the preachers who have taken their boxes are 20. These materials have been carried away by the local preachers by the use of pick-up trucks, vans, Tuktuks, motor cycles and some are carried by hand. 

We have also sent these materials to 4 other small Preacher Training Schools within the country like, Bomet School, Christian For Kenya Training School, Butere Training School and the newly established Preacher Training School at Maasai Mara.  

More conversions in Guinea

Gueckedou, Guinea BV Activity Operations Report for February 2019

Brethren, the month of February has ended and we are pleased to submit essential details of the Institute’s activities which were conducted during the month. In addition to the usual activities of classroom and evangelism, there were purchases of a new copier and 17 Thomson Chain Reference Bibles. And by the grace of God 3 souls were converted to the Lord. Here are the details:

Classroom: Of the 17 students on roll 16 of them registered at the beginning of the month until about half way when student Nicolas who was ill for some time in February returned. All 17 students are now carrying on their studies and the overall academic performance is acceptable. The students are also doing well in their practical.

Evangelism: Two areas of evangelism were as usual conducted in the month of February - the “house to house” preaching and that of the regular radio broadcast both of which resulted to 3 conversions.

House to house – Among those who went out to preach was student Justin who together with 2 of his colleagues was able to convert 2 of his female relatives. Later, we converted 1 young man, a handicap who had to be transported on the bike. Brother Nyuma is yet a young man and he’s crippling in both legs. He cannot stand on any of them. Thank God for his acceptance of Christ.

 Evangelism by the air: There is one student who is making a greater impart by the gospel messages preached on the air. Student Niouma 2 Kamano has impressed us greatly as he reminds and teaches the public on a regular weekly basis with messages of concern topics such as “examining oneself in light of obeying the saving gospel”. Our emission is a regular listening one in Gueckedou and surrounding!

Other conversions elsewhere – Though not counted in our Bear Valley conversion figures we will nevertheless like to mention in passing that as a result of the Gueckedou Bear Valley’s Director’s preaching on 24th February, 4 precious souls accepted the Lord that Sunday following his exercise as the keynote speaker of the WBS Graduation in Foya of neighboring Liberia.  There were 11 awards of WBS Certificates offered on February 23rd to those men and women who completed the required courses.  

Purchase of 17 Thomson Bibles and a new copier: We had serious photo copy difficulties at the beginning of the month when our“2520” copier broke down. We tried to get it repaired, but to no avail. The popular technician in town could not repair it due perhaps to his incapability in the field. So we sought permission from Steve, our Coordinator who allowed us to make some adjustment in the purchase of the Thomson Bibles. Instead of 20 to include the staff, we purchased 17 Bibles for the students and with a far reasonable price than the invoice obtained some time last year. This allowed us “left over” funds used to satisfy the pressing need. So we got a “2204” size type copier to replace the “2520” which was damaged by car accident during transport of startup materials last year.

Conclusion: Our thanks and appreciations to all the men and women, the brethren who are supporting the Bear Valley schools especially the one in Gueckedou to continue to train men for the Master.

In Christ

Francis

2 wells drilled in Gweru, Zimbabwe

FEBRUARY 2019 NARRATIVE REPORT

INTRODUCTION

At the end of each month we look back and reflect upon the progress BVBIZ is making in the training of evangelists to be competent ministers of the Gospel. Indeed, we see progress in many areas. Though we cannot report on everything that transpired, the following is a summary.

1.0 CLASSES CONTINUE

Classes continued in the month of February without any challenge. Much ground has so far been covered in most of the subjects.  The following subjects are under consideration this term;

Denominational Doctrines                

World Religions                               

1-2 Corinthians                                 

1-2 Thessalonians                              

Greek I                                              

1, 2 Peter, and Jude                           

Wisdom Literature                            

Prison Epistles                                  

Introduction to computers                 

2.0 DONNIE ESTEP’S VISIT

BVBIZ was blessed to have Donnie Estep, BVBII’s regional Director, from the 17th to the 25th of February. He had opportunity to teach and interact with students and staff. The subject he taught is “World Religions.” He taught the same subject to the students on the extended program in Harare on the 23rd and 24th of February.

Besides the classes, Donnie taught at Nashville Church of Christ during one of her mid-week services. He had an opportunity of visiting BVBIZ’s permanent cite. He made a visit with Temba Gwena, one of the Board members. In the picture below, he stands in a section within the land together with Ishmael Mutichu, one of the instructors and Temba Gwena. They are standing at the site where Healing Hands International intended to drill a borehole for BVBIZ.

3.0 PROJECTS

Currently BVBIZ runs projects on the available space we currently have. The aim is to provide a hands on experience for students, lower the food budget and provide more income for the school. A new batch of chickens shall be starting in March whilst cabbages are almost ready for the market.

4.0 DEVELOPMENT AT BVBIZ PERMANENT CITE

Work has started at the 5.9 hectare plot that BVBIZ now has. The hope is that all activities including projects will be done there. By God’s grace it is also hoped that there shall be construction of structures on the land. The first task was to cite and drill a borehole. The presence of water would then be a catalyst for other activities to take place. God’s blessings can, at times, go beyond what we think. When we hoped for one borehole, we got two.

4.1 BOREHOLE 1

A great surprise gift to BVBIZ was the sinking of a borehole by the BVBIZ board. The funds were sourced through Hailey Mlangeni, one of the Board members. Drilling was done on the 25th of February. It went up to 55 meters and this borehole has a capacity of producing 10 000litres of water per hour. The following pictures show the drilling that was done.

4.2 BOREHOLE 2

God smiled on BVBIZ to have Healing Hands International sponsoring a borehole. Discussions on the possibility of having this borehole began many months back and it has finally become a reality. There were smiles all over when the drilling was done and completed. The drilling went up to 60m whilst the borehole has a capacity of producing over 10 000litres of water per hour. A solar pump shall be installed soon. We shall report more on this in the March report when everything has been done and completed. Our great appreciation goes to Haling Hands International.

5.0 PRACTICAL

Students have continued to do practicum in various areas. This is in terms of teaching, preaching, counselling, leading in singing, presiding at the Lord’s table and in evangelism. Progress is being noted in the presentations they make and in results from the field. In the month of March, students shall continue to do evangelism every Saturday within Gweru. The next report shall carry out statistics of their efforts.

CONCLUSION

At BVBIZ in February, lessons were conducted, practical done, boreholes drilled and a visit done by Donnie Estep. We always thank God who makes this possible. To all who have contributed one way or another to this progress, thank you. To God be the glory!

26 more students in Nigeria

REPORT SO FAR ON THE PROGRAMS

The school is blessed with 26 students: four Sisters and twenty-two brothers. In January 2019 we had three students joining us, that makes the number from twenty-three to twenty-six students 

The first lecture for 2019 has been taken by bro Oladokun Samuel, he treated the book of Acts and all of our students were present. In February we are treating evangelism 1 and In March we are going to treat the topic New Testament church 2. 

We had our campaign on the 9/2/2019,three soul were added and one restored on our campaign day.

Thanks you sir for motivating us to preach the gospel,God bless bear valley's management  

Amen

Mfon etim

Director 

Ikorodu campus

Upcoming seminar in Nepal

Respected brothers in Christ,

Greetings to you all in the precious name of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ. May grace of God, love and peace always be with you.

We are doing well in our Bible study programs. We are having our normal regular classes at the month of January and February 2019. Our current students are doing their best in their study. Besides of our classes we are having regular ladies Bible study with in different congregations of Kathmandu valley. Our ladies students present their lessons to the ladies. We are happy with their spiritual growth and maturity.

Our formal students are serving faithfully in the kingdom of God. We are always glad to hear their good news from their congregations. Please kindly remember them in your regular prayers.

This month we did lots of preparation for lectureship at March 11-14, 2019. Brother Jerry Bates and Sister Paula Bates are visiting us. We are planning to invite our graduated students and preachers from different parts of Nepal and India. Please kindly remember us in your prayer for fruitful Bible study.

Thank you all of your prayer, support, love and guidance.

I will sent you another report in next month.

Brother in Christ,

Gajendra Deshar 

A guest teacher in Zambia

The month of February was filled with a lot of activities that we can gladly give a report on. To begin with, it was very great to have Brother Donnie Estep come and teach a short course here at BVBI-Zambia. He did a tremendous job as he taught the Book of 1st Corinthians. We are truly thankful to him for the job well done!

The students are working very hard as far as their studies are concerned. They are also involved in the evangelism programs that the school has started for every week-end. Bible studies appointments  have been set with different people due to these programs.  And as a result of this effort we had a soul (Isaac) added to the church on 27th February, we also had three souls restored back to the sheepfold at Mikomfwa Church of Christ.

Hornbye Mupengu and Joseph Ilunga who are students at BVBI-Zambia, worked tirelessly at Mupengu’s farm during the last school break. This farm is located in Masaiti district of Chief Mikambo of the Copper Belt Province of Zambia. Apart from cultivating and doing other farm works, they also did a lot of evangelism among the neighboring farming communities. Each Lord’s Day they invited the neighbors to come to the farm for worship services. They did this the entire time they were there. The whole district of Masaiti has no church at the present moment. When the school is in recess again, Hornbye and Joseph have committed themselves to go back and continue where they had left.   

Brother Cephas had been studying with Kinsley kawala a gentleman who finally requested to be baptized. He wanted to be baptized the very Tuesday night of 19th February, but his baptism was delayed until the next day. Brother Cephas asked some students and Brother Fred to accompany him to baptize this man. We are very grateful to God that another soul was added to the Lord’s Church. There are many activities like these that we hope and pray will yield positive results.

Our Institute has a program to interact with leaders of the churches of Christ here in Zambia which has begun to yield results, as a result of this program, we have received a request from one of the largest Churches in Livingstone requesting for two trained preachers from BVBI-Zambia to work with them. This will be on a fulltime basis. Livingstone is a town in Southern Zambia.

In another development BVBI-Z is gaining more recognition and her purpose is being realized; we have been invited to attend the annual national Youth Conference to be hosted by Lusaka Churches of Christ. Our Director, brother Fred Kanangu will one of the key speakers at the conference. The national Youth Conference starts on 19th April, 2019 and ends on 22nd April, 2019. The Institute will take the opportunity once again of showcasing to the congregants among other things, what the Institute is all about and what the enrollment requirements are. We look forward to being at this annual event. We continue asking for your prayers that all the operations of the school turn out to be successful. 

Thank you once again to Woodland Oaks Church of Christ for their financial support. We also thank you for your prayers and indeed moral support. We will be remembering you as well in our daily prayers.

Brotherly,

Cephas and Fred   

Back to business in Accra

Prologue:

Thanks be to the God Almighty, who has made our living fruitful since last year to date. Peace be with you brethren, for the time spending on remembrance of us in your daily prayers, we are grateful to hear about you from time to time. Stay bless and long live.

NEW ACADEMIC YEAR BEGINS

Praise the Lord with us for His guidance through numerous challenges we had in the past year and mercifully made everything new in this year, 2019. Our hope is that everything continuous peacefully.

Praise Him!

BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAMME STARTED

On 11th January, 2019, the Degree in Biblical Studies, started with thirteen applicants. Orientation was organized by Mr. E. O. Larbi and students were introduced. Beginning of the programme, the students sat for an entrance exam in order to check exactly if they qualify and that they have varied entry requirements. In order for them to start the general course, series of assignments has been given to them to be completed and submit before or on the next school day. This will show if they will be capable for pursuing the program or not.

SCHOOL RESUMES (DIPLOMA PROGRAM)

14th January, 2019, the Accra school resumed from Christmas holidays and classes commenced with the following courses: Hermeneutics 2, Life of Christ 3, Pastoral Epistles, Marriage, Inter-testamental Period, Communication Skills and Computer.

STUDENTS / INSTRUCTORS PUNCTUALITY

Currently, 13 students are for the full time department. 11 are present and seriously pursuing their regular courses. The 2, Daniel Agyei, one of the instructors in Tamale and at the same time a student at SIBS has not reported and hopefully, will come to Accra to complete his courses when he completes his duties in Tamale. Also, Joseph Boafo has not reported due to his job schedule and the board is yet to discuss the necessary action due a student who reports late to school or for class.

All teaching and non-teaching staff are present and warmly carrying out their responsibilities as per the schools’ time table for this quarter.

CAMPAIGN

As per the schools’ quarterly activities, there are two (2) campaigns scheduled. One in Sekyi-Agyakwa School, Nsawam and the other at Nungua, Accra.

The Nsawam campaign has successfully completed with two (2) baptisms. In the full 7 days’ activities, the programme was held in three aspects; open air in the evenings, dawn and house to house preaching. All the students participated well as per those who were able to attend up. Two instructors were present to see to it that the activities went through well.

We are highly impressed with the effective of the students’ participation and eager to do the work.

We still ask that you keep us supported with your prayers, God bless you. Amen.

Outstanding progress in Harare, Zimbabwe

JANUARY – FEBRUARY 2019 REPORT

INTRODUCTION

Harare Extension School is now into the second year of its existence and we always credit our being to the Almighty God who gives us life. Secondly we are mindful of the fact that Bear Valley Bible Institute International is always by our side; physically, spiritually and financially. This report will look at the work done by our students in their different locations were they serve. 

CLASSES

The lessons started in all earnest in January but we were disturbed by the events that unfolded that led to a national crisis after protest were met with a heavy military hand by the government leading to even the loss of life. Dzivaresekwa suburb was one of the most affected areas as this crackdown went on for about three weeks. This disturbed us as gatherings were viewed negatively. 
In February we continued with the lessons. The Second Years were doing Denominational Doctrines and the Books of 1 & 2 Peter and Jude; the First Years were taught Personal Evangelism 1 and Synoptic Gospels. 
Donnie Estep visited the school on the weekend of 23 and 24. He taught World Religions to the combined class. He also preached during the Sunday worship service at Dzivaresekwa church of Christ. We are so grateful for Donnie’s visit and as a family we are grateful for his stay with us. On behalf of the church and my family, thank you brother Donnie. Evans Nyamadzawo will take over from were Donnie left and complete the lesson. During Donnie’s teaching Evans was also part of the class.

CONGREGATIONAL AND PERSONAL COMMITMENTS

Our students come from congregations were some of them are in leadership roles. In improving their congregational relevance we always advise them to be active and put what they are being taught into practice. We always urge them to be self-starters and actively work for the church. They are also supposed to have eyes outside their local congregation. 
1. Wellington and Shingirai Nyoni (Second Years) managed to visit Proton church of Christ, a congregation that was established in September 2018. The local preacher is Emmanuel Tsikada.
2. Charles Mugadza (First Year) also visited the congregation on 27 January 2019 and was given the opportunity to song lead. After the worship service the local preacher briefed them of the greater needs at the congregation including the need for manpower to evangelise the area.
3. Augustine Fata is a member of Highfield church of Christ and on the 24th of February 2019 he was invited to teach Sunday bible class at Mufakose church of Christ.

FUTURE PLANS

1. On the 23 and 24 March we will be going to Proton church of Christ for weekend evangelism programme. As alluded to above the report from our students led us to this decision and we will be going there on the said dates. Proton church of Christ is located at the outskirts of Harare, about 30km East of the City Centre.
2. Second Year students will be attached to preachers who are working with congregations commencing this February 2019. This will help the students to understudy thereby gaining experience from practicums.

CONCLUSION

It is our continued hope that God will help us fulfill all the plans ahead. We continually remember BVBII’s contribution in this great work, we thank you.

Stay blessed and be a blessing to all,

COMPILED BY: Howard Suwari

More printed material in Ukraine

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

In this report I'd like to share with you the news from Bear Valley Bible Institute.

Last month we printed the second portion of "The Commentary on the Book of Daniel and Intertestamental Period". We printed them 1,000 copies at a time. After receiving them from the printers we ship them to the Church of Christ congregations upon their request. The only expense that the local congregations have to cover is the shipping cost. I received a lot of thank you messages from Ukrainian brethren who got the book. They appreciate this ministry and rejoice that their congregations' library received such a welcomed addition of good quality book. We thank God and our brethren who support this ministry with their sacrificial donations.

Last month our first year students had 1 and 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles (taught by Vitaly Rodichev), Minor Prophets (Andrew Zhuravlev) and started the book of Isaiah (Denton Landon) while the second year students had Prison Epistles (Michael Underwood) and Hebrews (Dennis Sopelnik).

It's much warmer outside and our students carry on with the street evangelism. They usually take some Christian publications and a foldable table. We place it in places close to public transportation key locations and distribute tracts and invitations. Sometime people stop to ask questions and ask to gift them the Bible. We usually initiate a conversation about the salvation of their soul and invite them to come to Sunday services.

I request your prayers on behalf of our brother Sergey Omelchenko who is still hospitalized and most likely will have to continue receiving treatments for a few months. TB treatment procedures in Ukraine usually last over 4 months.

Our graduation this school year is scheduled for May 25 for both Bachelor and Master's programs. So it's double joy. We expect American and Ukrainian Instructors as well as Keith Kasarjian, the Bear Valley Bible Institute Director of International Studies. We will be glad to see everyone who has a chance to visit us and attend the 2019 graduation.

March 31 is the President election day in Ukraine. We ask you to join us in our prayers for reasonable choice of the new leader of the country. It's crucially important that the new government won't persecute Christianity and we will be able to freely share the Gospel.

Thank you so much for your prayers and financial support for the Institute.

God bless!

Your brother in Christ,   Dennis Sopelnik

Busy and productive in Nigeria

Beloved in Christ Jesus.

Greetings in staff and students of Bear Valley Bible Institute Nigeria & Southwest School of Evangelism, Ibadan and my fellow WBSFUW in Southern part of our great nation, Nigeria.

Below is the summary of our activities for the month of February 2019:

1. OVERVIEW: 

i)   Weekend evangelism in continue in Asejire town,Oyo and Osun state and Butubutu village,Ibadan in Oyo state

ii)  End of Second Semester Classes..

iii)  Vocational Weeks commenced on February 9.

iv)  Great Workshop 2019 at Owutu Village ,Imo state.

v) BVBIN & SWSE IBADAN 17th Annual Leadership seminar come up on March 25-29,2019 Lord’s willing.

2 . EVANGELISM:

The year-2 students are all busy in their respective congregation in fulfilling the marching order of Master Jesus through house-to-house evangelism while the year-1 students despite the fact that they are in a month Vocational Training are also busy every weekend in Weekend House-to-house evangelism in Oyo,Osun and Lagos state. Report reaching the school from both the year-1 and 2 students shows the conversion of nine souls and restoration of five .TO GOD BE THE GLORY!

3. END OF SECOND SEMESTER CLASSES:

The 2nd semester classes come to and end as scheduled on February 8,2019.Lord’s willing,3rd semester classes will begin on March 18 instead of March 4 due to ongoing elections in our country, Nigeria.

4. VOCATIONAL WEEKS :All our year-1 students are now in a four weeks Vocational Training in Oyo,Osun and Lagos State learning different trades such as Fashion Designing, Electrification, Motor Mechanic, Plumber, Art Design, Barbing, NAPPMEG, e.t.c.

5. GREAT WORKSHOP 2019:

This year Great Workshop for WBSFUW in Nigeria held at Owutu Village, Imo State was attended by over 600 brethren across the country. Bro. Chad Wagner was our guest speaker. Several books was freely shared during this spiritual exercise. Among the books shared were the remaining 3,000 copies of VOTI volume 99, tracts by Bro .Sylvester Imogoh, 5,000 copies of WBS introduction lessons from Bro.Joel Coppinger and Associates and 400 BVBIN & SWSE IBADAN 2019 Calendar.

6. 17TH ANNUAL LEADERSHIP SEMINAR: Lord’s willing, this year Leadership Seminar will centered on “Go Yee Into The World”. The program will commenced on early morning of March 25 and end with Agric Seminar on March 29 by Bro. Ebenezer Udofia of Healing Hands International, Kenya .Participants from the Western Nigeria and Middle Belt are expected to arrive on Sunday evening, March 24. 

7. SPECIAL ACCOMPLISHMENT: 

 i) From the support from Bro. Chad Wagner & associates and from Bro.Steven Ashcraft and associates, we were able to print 5,000 copies each of our six local tracts for Weekend Evangelism and Gospel Campaign in the Western State of Nigeria.

ii) Also, the BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN Staff quarter’s and that of SWI Staff quarter’s and Anuoluwapo’s Library painted

8. ABOUT A STUDENT: Bro.Okpachui Denis Ugim is one of our year-1- students.Born in 1992 at Obudu, Cross River State. He is presently our chapel prefect. His mission is to become one of the competent ministers of God in Cross River State and beyond after his study in BVBIN & SWSE-Ibadan.

9. BRO.CHAD WAGNER NOW OUR NEW SWSE-PATRON: Now that our able brother, Chad Wagner is now fully in charge of Nigeria evangelism ministry, the Foundation Members of the SWSE-Ibadan and our graduates on February 6 deem it fit to confer on him the position held by the faithful soldier of Christ, Bro.Doug Wheeler since the school inception in year 2003 till December 2018 on Bro.Chad Wagner, that is, SWSE-Patron. We therefore appeal to you all to make any enquiry concerning us and our mission from him. Big thanks for your usual cooperation.

11. OTHER COMMENTS: The Church of Christ , Onikokoro / Gbongudu , Ibadan  start her first Indoor Bible Lectureship in 2019 centered on “ Practical Christianity’ ….Studies from the book of James on February 3,2019 and I Introduce the book on the first class of February 3 and served as the admonisher  on February 10 .Average attendance is 48 with average collection of N4,600= 

CONCLUSION  : We deeply appreciates the supports from Bro .Joel  Coppinger  &  associates, Bro. Steven Ashcraft & associates , Bro.Chad Wagner & associates ,Dorman & Donna Lough, Bro. Doug Wheeler , Bro. Bill Pennell , Bro .John Branard & Oceanside congregation, Visalia community Church of Christ and you all for your partnership and support . May God continue to bless our works together in Jesus Christ name, amen.

Sincerely His & Yours……MAKINDE Ebenezer  Olufemi (Director of Studies, BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN and WBSFUW)

A new school in Lima, Peru!

Dear brothers,

By means of this I am writing to you to extend my greetings and to report the progress of the institute here in Peru.

Last Saturday we finished the redemption plan with Yens Nima, with 10 students. There were 2 absent, due to health problems, Eyton and Lizandra, they had a baby, but there were complications which caused her to return to the hospital, two weeks ago they have already returned home, but Lizandra is still recovering. I think they are planning to start the next course. Both are very good students.

Regarding the other students, they are doing a good job with the lessons, although for several the academic level is finding it a little complicated, both to assimilate the lessons and to fulfill their tasks and exams. But we are sure that they will do much better.

As co-directors and teachers, we are seeing the best way to ensure that they are instructed and grow, but that they also approve the courses. Here I add the averages of the first 3 courses dictated by (A.T 1 - Juan Abanto, How the Bible came to us - Abraham, Evidences - Alejandro).

On the other hand, as part of our 2019 calendar of activities we will have an evangelistic activity in the area of ​​the church where I am preaching, we will do it this Saturday, March 2. Since March and other months have 5 Saturdays, we decided to use them to take the group to do evangelistic work in different areas. I attach the 2019 calendar of activities. In our plan of activities we have included:

1.       Biblical Conference. We will have one in the month of April presented by the teachers of the institute and another one in November as invited by the IDC America.

2.       Evangelistic activity. We will have them in March, May, August and October.

3.       Recordings. We want to involve students and teachers to make audio and video recordings of different biblical themes for the benefit of our local congregations.

4.       Recreation. Both students and teacher will have one day in the year for recreational activities.

5.       Camp for Preachers (CPP). It will be a night and a day of retreat in which different preachers will be invited to spend time for instruction, feedback and fellowship.

6.       An evangelistic mission. The students and teachers will have a missionary activity next year, for which we are already preparing ourselves, mentally, physically and economically speaking (PERSONAL BUDGETS).

We appreciate the spiritual and financial support we receive from you, thanks to all the people involved in this beautiful project. May God continue to bless you!

We'll keep in touch! A hug from a distance!

For more information you can visit our website:

www.bvbiperu.wixsite.com/bvbiperu