Two years of war in Ukraine

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

It's already the middle of March 2024 and the cruel and merciless war in Ukraine continues. Two years of the constant terror and bloodshed. People learned to function in stress. The social programs' funding gets less and less money. The people got poorer considerably. With these events in the background we appreciate so much the most valuable help from our American brethren who sacrificially give towards the needs of  refugees. This way we spread the Gospel and the people also receive a chance to be saved.

The Bible Institute faithfully continues its ministry. In February and March we had the following subjects - Minor Prophets, part 1, The Wisdom Literature (Instructor Dennis Sopelnik) and the Book of Job (Dmytro Galyuk). After each course the students have to take the written test and also the oral part of the testing. Our online studies definitely don't substitute the personal presence but it's the only safe option of keeping the studies going.

We keep working with the refugees in Leipzig as well. For us it's a wonderful opportunity to have fellowship with Ukrainians and share the Gospel with them. We don't have a lot of opportunities for the evangelism here so we try to use every chance we have.

I'd like to request your prayers for our bothers Dennis and Valentine who are in military now. Our student Dennis got married recently and he was allowed a short leave for the occasion. He was on the front line position with 0 distance to the enemy, it means he occasionally was 100-200 meters away  from the enemy trenches. A lot of fellow soldiers who had been drafted with him lost their lives. We keep him in our prayers at all times and it was God's good will to keep him alive.  And one of our Instructors Valentin is also in the military serving as  an officer in the headquarters. He aged considerably in the recent six months. His physical health deteriorated due to the constant stress and lack of sleep.  Both of them, as well as thousands of our defenders,  need your fervent prayers.

I'm very thankful to all of our preachers who try and help the needy. As an example I will tell about a very interesting event that happened in Bela Tserkva. Our brother in Christ and the local preacher Konstantin contacted one humanitarian fund. Those people came with their own pizza baking equipment and literally in the back yard of the church building cooked and gave away free of charge a lot of pizza. All the refugees who are in the city were told about the upcoming event and hundreds of people had a joyful feast. Of course, it was only a one time  event that doesn't resolve the humanitarian catastrophe but the people got a little hope for rejoicing. I wish you could see the eyes of the children who were given free pizza. They swallowed their slices in seconds!

The world has always been cruel, and only the love of God helps and keeps it in existence.

May God keep each of you.

Your brother,

Dennis Sopelnik

Prayers desperately needed for Haiti

Haiti Report

The International School of Theology (IST) in Haiti has faced many problems over the past four years due to gang activity. The area where the campus is located is where there has been considerable violence, including kidnappings, house raids, and killings. To make matters worse, the area that had to be traveled through to reach IST is home to some of the worst gangs. Therefore, we have not been able to use the campus since 2020. While classes have continued and many souls have been saved, the students and the teachers have been in danger almost daily.

The past two weeks have seen the violence increase drastically. The airport was attacked and had to close for several days. Two of the largest prisons were attacked, which resulted in more than 4,000 prisoners escaping and several left dead. Banks, churches, schools, hospitals, and businesses have been attacked, causing many to close. In the past three months, more than 3,500 people have been killed, kidnapped, or injured by gang activity. The roads are blocked with burning tires, and gunshots can be heard throughout the city of Port-au-Prince. The United States recently sent Marines to reinforce security at the US embassy. The embassy has evacuated all non-essential personnel. The prime minister resigned at the demands of the gangs and the request of some Caribbean leaders. The country is on the verge of total collapse. Please pray for Haiti.

How does this affect the school of preaching in Haiti? Our teachers, directors, and students have put their lives in danger each time they travel to and from class. Half of the class has often been unable to attend due to the blocked streets. Due to the increased violence, we have decided to suspend classes until further notice. We hope to resume them as soon as possible, but it may be August before we can start regular classes again. Our local directors will continue to check on students and help provide food and medical care when needed. The students and teachers regularly work with about twenty-five congregations and will continue their work as much as possible. 

Our goal remains to train preachers and teachers of God's word. While we may have to pause regular classes, the work will continue. We know who is in charge and will make way for His message to be proclaimed. There will come a time when the violence will stop, and we can travel again to Haiti. There are people in Haiti who are hungry for the message of salvation, and we plan to see that they have an opportunity to hear it. Please pray for the work, the students, the teachers, and our directors. 

Larry Waymire

Special guests in Malawi

Bear Valley Bible Institute 

Ekwendeni - Malawi 

Hello everyone!

The progress still continues as we are looking forward to the graduation of our students this year. It is their second and final year in class with us. Teachers and students are in a very serious cooperation at the moment, making sure that everyone gets his assignments finished before that joyous day of graduation.  Everyone with unfinished work, will not enjoy this day of receiving diplomas as he will not have it.

This month of March,  we were blessed to have our visitors from the USA.  One of the 2 brother Charles Gunter stayed with us for two weeks and the other one stayed for 3 days. The students were so happy to have brother Charles teach them the book of John.  The grades they got showed that they have learnt alot.  We are always thankful to have visitors come to help us teach.  This makes the work easier; and also it makes it said rightly " Blessed is the home that receives visitors "!

Evangelism 

We are in rain season and it is difficulty to take our students out for door to door preaching. However,  we have our graduates in many districts of out country Malawi and always send us good news.  This month we received news from brothers Mateyu and Takesure,  they have reported 13 baptisms and 4 souls restored. 

School Land extended 

We are also glad to share the joy we have that the chiefs have given us another portion of land (1 hactor). This is one way of appreciating the development we are doing in their village.  We are so happy that most of our plans will work out well. We need enough place to build teacher's houses and also a library.

God continues blessing your families as this work still need your involvement.  

Your's fellow workers in Christ,

Ephron and Clergynton

Many conversions in Sierra Leone

Bear Valley Bible Institute Sierra Leone

ACTIVITY OPERATION REPORT FOR MARCH, 2024

Full Time and the Extended Programs

INTRODUCTION

As we march through the month of March, we want to begin this report by honoring God for His providential care. As a family (staff and the students of KBVBI), we keep on recognizing  you, our dear brethren, supporters, partners and readers for your continual demonstration of the love that you have for God thus seeking to save the lost through training.

In March, we went on a short 2 weeks break (full time program only) and resumed classes again; souls were converted, evangelistic training seminars were conducted; and the graduates kept on working harder on the field.  Here is more information on the highlighted activities:

RESUMPTION OF CLASSES AND CONVERSIONS BY STUDENTS

At the end of February 2024, we informed you that our full-time students went on a break for two weeks. They were told to record all their activities with their respective congregations, so that upon resumption, they would turn in to the administration. They went on break indeed and resumed classes on March 15, 2024. Our students come from the various congregations and parts of Sierra Leone including, Kono, Tonkolili, Kenema, Kailahun, etc. Therefore during the break, they were greatly involved in evangelistic and congregational work. As a result, 10 souls were converted and some congregations were strengthened. Apart from the souls converted during the break, 3 others were converted by the staff in the month of March. This is especially important to the school administration because we do not want to train and graduate pulpit ministers who love to see themselves as administrators only and would be fighting for positions in local congregations. Rather, we want to train preachers and evangelists who see the growth of local congregations as the bedrock to intense evangelism. Our part-time students continued their classes and are also involved in evangelistic activities. We desire your prayers for all our students to continue to be committed to the course of Christ.

EVANGELISTIC SEMINARS AND CONVERSION OF SOULS BY THE EVANGELISTIC TEAMS

You are already aware of the active works of the evangelistic teams across the country. So training seminars were held in Freetown and Bo and before the end of the program for the stipulated period, 7 souls were converted and the evangelistic team members were strengthened again with more skills to continue promoting God’s evangelistic mission. Apart from the seminars at the above places, the Koindu team also cooperated with the brethren in Nongoa, Republic of Guinea and conducted an evangelistic campaign which led to the strengthening of the Nongoa Church of Christ and the conversions of 4 souls.

ALUMNI UPDATE

As we keep on informing you that our existence as a school is to train evangelists who would find interest in field work. With that background, you have been reading through our reports of the works of some of our graduates. For the past months that we didn’t share their update with you, they have been working tirelessly. Many of them are leading local congregations, are part of the evangelistic teams and are very recognized in the churches of Christ in Sierra Leone for their contributions. They have been able to convert 22 souls and restored 3 fallen congregations and 10 backslidden brethren. They are to be prayed for and also appreciated for their tireless efforts. 

CONCLUSION

As we marched through the end of March with fruitful activities, we anticipated that April would be more fruitful. Thank you for patiently reading through while noting all the details. May we get your response, suggestions and ideas on how we can improve as a school. We look forward to meeting in April 2024 again, if the Lord tarries to come!

New beginnings in Moundou, Chad

May God, our only Master, in whom we have breath and whom we worship, bless you in Jesus Christ His Son, the author of our Salvation!  Below, you will find a monthly report of the activities of the Bear Valley Bible Institute Moundou-Chad. This report is sequenced with the coordinator's visit to Chad, evangelization activities, student registration, and visit to congregations in Chad by the coordinator David Ballard.

OUR THANKS:

 We open this monthly work report, of the Bible Institute of Bear Valley Moundou-Chad, with thanks to God. The congregations of the churches of Christ in Chad in general, the congregation of the church of Christ in Moundou, which meets at the campus of the Bear Valley Bible Institute Moundou-Chad, and the students of the Bible institute in particular, have for several months, prayed for the program, of the visit of the coordinator of the Biblical training center of Bear Valley Bible Institue Moundou-Chad, to the country of Chad. This program became a reality on February 23, 2024 at 6 p.m.  From the bottom of our hearts, we sincerely say thank God first for listening to our prayers and then all the congregation for praying to God for the journey of our missionary brothers David Ballard, Todd Crayton, and Barry Baggott. May God bless each of them for their mission throughout the earth!  We also thank, from the bottom of our hearts, the missionary team that arrived in Chad. May God restore to them, the strength lost during this trip. During this time of the year, it is very hot in Chad. May God bless them a hundredfold, for the rest of their lives, for their involvement in His work!

 EVANGELISM:

From February 23 to March 12, 2024, the Lord used the presence of the missionary team led by coordinator David Ballard, to help win souls as He added them to his Church. A total of 17 souls, were baptized into Christ on this occasion. The saved souls are distributed as follows: 02 souls in the campus congregation in Moundou, 03 souls in the Koumra congregation, 02 souls in the Sarh congregation, 03 souls in the Dono-manga congregation (Ter), 06 souls in the congregation of Kélo, and finally 01 soul, in the congregation of Forkoumaye which occurred one day after the passage of the brothers, but that was result of their preaching.  Let us pray for all these souls and that God will bless the tools that He used for this work!  The Lord’s work is not only baptism, there are many other activities involved in teaching, nurturing, and sustaining.

 REGISTRATION:

During the stay in Chad, of the coordinator and the team, 17 students in biblical training at the Bible Institute of Bear Valley Moundou-Chad, were officially registered on March 2, 2024 by the Coordinator as students of the said Institution. We pray for the further training of these 17 men, who left their families, to study the Holy Scriptures, in order to serve the Lord well!  The mission of the missionary team did not stop at the registration of students and with the 17 cases of baptisms.

 TOUR IN THE CONGREGATIONS:

The three brothers on mission in Chad, in order to get to grip on the reality of the field of work, made a tour within the southern provinces of Chad. Time did not allow the missionaries to visit all of the scheduled congregations. Thus, 17 congregations were visited in total. These are the congregations: Djarabé 2, 15 Ans 1, Koumra, Sarh 1, Sarh 2, Bedjondouli 2, Kaba-Randy, Bendana, Dono-manga, Ter, Kélo, Bongor Vanguir, Pont Carol, Pala, Forkoumaye, N'djamena Abena, and N'djamena Boudalbagar. These congregations not only received visits from missionaries, they also received teaching. In Moundou, on campus for five days, from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. local time, brother David Ballard gave lessons on “The Good News and Seven Ones.”  It was a very beneficial series, for the students especially.  While brother David taught those lessons in the afternoons, brother Barry Baggot taught a course in the instituted during the day, from Monday to Friday, entitled “The Doctrine of Denominations.” What a wonderful stay of in Chad it was for the brothers, and what a blessing it was for the Chadian brothers and sisters as well!

 STUDENT TRAINING:

Speaking of the functioning of the center's activities, everything is going well so far. Classes will continue until mid-May when students will have a longer that normal break to allow them to do be home taking care of their agricultural endeavors, especially the sowing of seeds.  We truly ask for your prayers for the students during their break.

 To close our report, we particularly extend our gratitude to BEAR VALLEY and to CREEKSIDE for all they do for the gospel in our country.  May God bless them for the advancement of His work in the world!  May God give us, on the side of Chad, the wisdom to accomplish his mission well!  May God bless us all abundantly for the preaching of the gospel throughout the world!

 In Christ,

Datoudji

Baptisms in Mombassa, Kenya

Dear brethren, 

Greetings to you all, brothers. it is our pleasure to write to you again, hoping that the Lord has been good to you all. We are all fine, and thank God for His goodness. It is the end of our first quarter this year, and the students are continuing with their lessons each Saturday. The lessons covered this quarter are: Denominational doctrines, Introduction to leadership as well as Joshua, Ruth and Judges.

This quarter we have had two Baptisms, through the effort of the students and the teachers. This is fruit of evangelism through the divine power of God. Efforts are being made to follow up with more prospects around Jomvu area. We pray that the Lord may open up the hearts of many people here to know Biblical Truth about salvation.

Next quarter will begin on 6th April,2024 and Paul will be taking the class. it is our hope that the students will continue equipped by the next lesson. we're glad that the lessons have had an impact on the students and hope that they will be good ministers of the gospel.

We thank God for bringing us this far, praying that He may preserve us for the sake of spreading the gospel. 

Moreover, one soul was has been restored to the church. We thank God for this beautiful soul that has returned to the Father!

We thank God continuously for all the brethren who have made efforts to enable the work here be a success. May God bless you abundantly. Please pray for the work here so that it might have impact on the people in this region..

God Bless you. 

Yours faithfully.

Francis Ojow and Paul Karisa

Director visits Tirupati, India

Reporting Letter for the month of March-2024

Date :04-04-2024

Respected beloved brother Keith Kasarjian our director and our coordinator Mr.Mark Reynolds and all the prayer partners, greetings to you in the matchless name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We pray that this reporting letter may help us to serve in finding you well. We thank you very much for your continual prayers and encouragement for the smooth function of Bible School . On behalf of BVBI-extension centre in Tirupati-India I would like to share a brief report for the month of March-2024.

Class Room work: We follow the syllabus prescribed by BVBI, on time to time we conduct examinations, daily tests ,  memory verses , note book evaluation, assignments work , weekend examinations etc... Our teachers are excellent in concentrating each student to mold them to be good Bible students. It is our main goal to cultivate each student to develop the Christian character and train them up to teach the word of God to fellow Indians ( 2 Timothy 2:2). We train them how to proclaim to outside people (outside of Christ)  and how to teach inside members( In christ).

Short courses :- There are few guest teachers who are not able to teach from Monday to Friday. But we use them for the short courses. We are happy to share about few short courses which we have covered by the guest teachers in the month of March.

Mr.Keith Kasarjian:  We are very happy to invite our International director to teach at BVBI-Tirpati-India. In the month of March 3 week Mr. Keith Kasarjian  was  able to visit the school, he taught wonderful subjects 1. The Importance preaching 2. The kind of preaching that God calls for,  3.The foundation of Preaching , 4.Ingridients for the great sermon (Inspiration, organization, Illustration and application). Our students, staff, guest preachers were able to learn good subject by our director. We are thankful to our director for all his hardship and efforts to travel and teach these wonderful lessons.

Malaysia Teacher :- We are very much delighted to share with you that one of the instructors  Mr.Richard Lee has visited from Malaysia  in the month of March. He taught very good subject about the Qualities of servant of the God ( Coworker, Fellow soldier, Messenger, brother, minister Philippians 2:25-30) and other subject on Baptism.  After course he has distributed carry bags to all the staff and students. We appreciate his love and kindness.

Australian Teacher : We had other teacher Mr. Mandalidis Peter from Sydney , Australia.  He taught  wonderful subject called Hermeneutics. He is 75 years old but God has strengthened him to travel and teach. We are thankful to this teacher.

Bible Seminar: -  We have identified  the need of leadership in  local churches in India. Therefore We have conducted bible seminar on leadership in the month of  March 19th,2024. We have invited local preachers and active members of local churches for the meeting.

Our director Mr.Keith Kasarjian has presented two  lectures in the seminar on The role of preacher in obtaining elders and The role of elders. The Malaysian teacher Mr .Richard Lee has preached on the role of evangelist and Preacher in the local churches  and Australian teacher Mr. Mandalidis Peter has taught about the importance of eldership in the local church. After the seminar several participants have raised different questions concerning the eldership, bro.Keith kasarjian has answered by quoting right scriptures and motivated all the preachers to appoint elders in the local churches.

Karnool district Visit: In the month of March first week  our students and myself have travelled about 1000 K.M(to&fro)  to Karnool district , we were invited by local church at Gudur. We preached  about the subject “New testament church”. The local church was encouraged by our humble visit and teaching. Our students have learned several good things by this trip.

Wedding event: In the month of March 8th we have attended wedding event at Jangalapalli-Village,  BVBI students have learned how to organize the marriage.

Home Bible studies :  In the evening we actively involve  in conducting the home bible studies. We receive good response out of this program.

Zoom Meeting: We conduct zoom meeting on every Thursday at 7am, at present we are studying the book of Acts, this class helps to several people to learn the truth.

Gospel meeting : on March 16th evening we have conducted gospel meeting at Aruru-village.  we appreciate Mr. Richard lee for his wonderful gospel sermon.

Baptism: In  the month of March two souls were baptized, we request you to pray for these newly baptized souls so that they may grow in the image of His son Jesus Christ.

We once again thank you for your prayers and encouragement. We treat BVBI is a great blessing of God, it is really a wonderful platform to train  young people for the great cause of gospel of Christ. We are ever grateful to our director Mr.Keith Kasarjian and coordinator Mr.Mark Reynolds for their sacrifice , commitment and restless efforts to guide us and care for the Bible school at  Tirpati-India. We sincerely appreciate their help. We need your continual prayers and encouragement.

Thanking you.

Yours brother in Christ.

Vijay, behalf of staff and students from BVBI-extension centre-Tirupati-India.

New instructor in Accra, Ghana

End of February 2024 Operating Report, BVBI Accra

Introduction

God has been good and merciful to us. We will always praise him for his love and the numerous favour he has always bestowed on the ministry. Our heart is filled with full of joy. Praise him forever and ever. Amen.

Classes

Our instructors are doing well with their lessons, endeavouring to teach with all cheerfulness and in good health. Our students are also participating in their studies and research works.

New Instructor

We are happy to introduce our newly appointed instructor brother Shadrach Oppong. He is married with 2 children. He has recently completed his master's with Bear Valley Bible Institute, also working as an Evangelist. We have observed from him that he is sound in the doctrine and has a passion for teaching. He is with a media group, chariot TV which educates the church and public in the way of the Lord. He has endorsed the doctrinal position of the school and taken up the teaching responsibility with the school.

Number of Instructors

Currently, we have ten (10) instructors of which two (2) are mentoring to take over from the aged. The instructors include: E. O. Larbi, Kojo Acquah Beenyi, Emmanuel Amoo-Gyimah, Samuel Sasu Ntim, George Osafo Anim, Emmanuel Gyasi-Quansah, Shadrach Oppong, Wisdom Yirenchi, Ebenezer Amoasi, and John Acquah.

Report of Survey for church planting

Sammy and some of the evangelized team went out to survey the area for the campaign. Below is the report:

Paanor (school site)

1.      Campaign schedule for two weeks or more beginning from 1 to 14 April 2024

2.      Rent for John Acquah, chamber, and hall self-contain – 400.00 per month

3.      Chief of the town has promised us a plot of land with registration in the town by the road side at fifty thousand Ghana cedis (50,000.00)

4.      We met a couple (Michael and Dora) who were members of the church. They have built an apartment which will help us to host some of the team members.

5.      We had an old lady and a gentleman who promised us three  rooms for our stay for two weeks for the campaign

6.      On Sunday, John and Eric will be visiting the two nearby churches to announce the campaign  and their support for the programme

7.      We also cited a river and a good place for baptism in the next town (ie. River Densu)

Akotuakrom

8.      Campaign schedule for 1 week starting from 18 to 24 March 2024

9.      Unfortunately our car broke down and left it at the village to get it fixed the next morning

10.  We found five (5) members who were members of the church

11.  A couple who were members of the church has promised us rooms to receive our team and all participants

12.  We found a stream at the next two towns for baptism

13.  The members are ready to cook for the participant

14.  Meeting place: we have been promised to use the town school’s classroom for our assembly until we get a piece of land.

Visit churches for new students

Brother Amoo-Gyimah and Sammy visited all the Suhum township churches and some of the brethren at Teacher Mante, Kyekyere, and Asuboi to campaign for faithful men who has the desire to do the Lord’s work.

Flyers and announcement have been sent to all students in the weekend schools for students who may wish to switch to full-time class. In all we had two (2) students and two (2) brethren from the local church to start with the class. In total, we have ten (10) students for the full-time class.

We thank God for his guidance throughout the month’s activities. We hope to do more in the next month.

Reported by Bro. E. O. Larbi

Monday evangelism produces fruit in Ghana

OPERATIONAL REPORT FOR FEBRUARY, 2024

1.     CLASSROOM WORK

Classroom work continued for the month of February. Most of the courses for the term were completed by the end of February and other courses are near completion. Courses like leadership, Hermeneutics – 2 and Homiletics – 2 have been completed for the term. There has been significant improvement and development in the students’ knowledge in scripture and other areas of their lives.  

Part-time classes also continued steadily in the month as well. Some of the students are in the last term of their studies. Courses being taught include: world religions, epistles of John and Jude and denominational doctrines.

2.     PERSONAL EVANGELISM AND BAPTISM

The work of the Lord is also actively ongoing. There were various evangelistic efforts in the month of February. Our past and current students are still working to bring the message of the cross and the kingdom to many who have not heard it.

As reported last month, our current students now go out on Mondays for community evangelism. This month, they went to the town where Bro Joshua Aidoo preaches for the evangelistic work. The school has introduced this to help make the students more evangelistic, so that when they complete, they will have some skills to start and develop congregations.

 Thank you very much for your great commitment towards God’s work. God bless you.

Joshua.

Rivers State Nigeria reports many baptisms

1ST QUARTER, 2024 REPORT FROM BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE PORT HARCOURT, RIVERS STATE NIGERIA, WEST AFRICA

Bear Valley Bible Institute in Rivers State Nigeria started very well in the year 2024.   In the month of January, 2024 we sent out our students to various congregations in Rivers State and beyond for practical field work which is known in our transcript as “campaign”. When we sent out information about the field work to the congregations in our area, very many congregations in Port Harcourt City and various communities in Rivers State requested that we should send students to them. The high demands for our students were very encouraging and that made us to know that Bear Valley Institute is highly accepted in our area.

The reports we got from the field work is amazing.  We gathered that our students baptized 29 persons, restored 11 backsliders, and taught Bible classes to men, women, youths and children. They preached sermons that edified many brethren. Indeed, the students’ campaign in the month of January, 2024 contributed much to the growth of the church in our area. We are happy that the money American brethren are sending quarterly to the school is bringing positive results.

LECTURES ARE ONGOING IN OUR TWO CENTERS

At the end of field work, we resumed lectures in our two centers and God willing, lectures will continue till the end of December 2024.

ANOTHER SET OF 19 STUDENTS WILL BE DUE FOR GRADUATION AT THE END OF SECOND QUARTER OF 2024   

From our record, another set of 19 students will complete the 48 courses and will be due for graduation at the end of 2nd quarter, 2024. As soon as the transcripts are ready, we shall send them to Chad Wagner for verification and approval. If approved, it will be our second time to graduate students from our two centers which started in 2019.

GRADUATES OF BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTES RIVERS STATE NIGERIA ARE DOING GREAT WORKS IN THE GOSPEL FIELDS AS GOSPEL PREACHERS

We are glad to report that the efforts and money spent in the training of our past students are not in vain. Many of our graduates have been given appointments to work as preachers in many congregations in Port Harcourt and other communities in Rivers State, Nigeria. We are very happy because they are doing well in the congregations where they are working. It is worthy of note that 16 out of the 34 graduates of our school are already gospel preachers in various congregations while they were our students. After the graduation on July, 29th 2023, 10 among them have been given appointments as gospel preachers in various congregations in our area and beyond.

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE RIVERS STATE NIGERIA WILL HOST ONE DAY INTENSIVE LECTURESHIP IN OMOKU RIVERS STATE NIGERIA ON MARCH 30TH 2024

With the aim to create more awareness about our school and to get more    students to enroll in Omoku Center, we have invited many congregations in the area for a day intensive lectureship on 30th March, 2024. The theme of the proposed lectureship is: “Churches of Christ in the 21st century: Challenges and prospects” .We will give a detail report of the proposed lectureship in our next quarterly report.

 CONCLUSION

 We are grateful to God who has given us the strength to work for him and we are also grateful to our sponsors in the United States of America for their financial and moral supports. All the efforts are getting great results.

Reports from:

Anthony Ejike Oluria,

(Director BVBI Rivers State Nigeria, West Africa)

Evangelism plans in Liberia

Tokay Hill Community

                    Ganta City, Nimba County

February 2024 Operation Report

INTRODUCTION

The Students and Staff of the Liberia- Bear Valley Bible Institute bring you greetings and hope that all is well with you in the name of our Lord Almighty. We truly remain grateful to God and you for your partnership with us as we take on the task of preparing men for the Lord’s works here in Liberia and the world at large. Below are the activities for the Month of February 2024.

GOSPEL CAMPAIGN

As part of our practical work and most importantly bringing the lost souls to the saving knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, the Nimba County Evangelism Team (Winning Nimba For Christ) and Bear Valley Bible Institute-Liberia (Students and Instructors) took up a challenging gospel campaign to an area called Karnplay City in Nimba County Liberia, to establish the Church. By God's special grace, the Lord's church was established with 8 Persons obeying the gospel through baptism.

In an effort to coordinate the affairs of evangelism in the Country and across Africa, Brother Steven Ashcraft on January 22-24, 2024 brought together in Sanniquellie Nimba County, Liberia representatives of six West African Countries comprising of Togo, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia. During the meeting, issues of coordinating the evangelism works in those Countries mentioned above were highlighted, taking into consideration various challenges and sharing success and experiences that could help us achieve our goals.  

In this vain, evangelism teams in Liberia that have agreed to work with us are making some significant gains in their efforts to bring the lost souls to Christ.   

Konia and Salayea Evangelism Teams in Lofa County concluded their week long leadership training from February 19-25, 2024 with two days gospel campaign establishing three new congregations in Ziggida, Boi and Tivazue Towns respectively with 41persons being added to the Church through baptisms.

ACADEMIC WORKS

As we come to the close of year one quarter one, the school continued to run smoothly with every staff actively performing their responsibilities. The students are all doing well with their lessons while the support and instructional staff continued to come as scheduled playing their parts as well. We continued to seek your prayers as we strive to please our maker accordingly.

Our class room activities continued with the following:

1.    Group works

2.    Research works

3.    Students Individual Assignments and presentation

4.    Memory works

5.    Final examinations (Practical and theory).

6.     Cleaning of the campus etc.

Conclusion

We will always remain grateful for your love for God and your constant supports that have brought us this far, despite the various challenges we faced. To God be all the glory, praise and honor.

Fester G. Lee

Director- BVBI-L

Denominational preacher converted in Ondo State, Nigeria

Report Of Bear Valley Bible Institute Weekend School, Ondo State (January - March, 2024).

Dear brethren,

I ascribe all glory, honour and Majesty back to Our God in heaven above for His renewable blessings every day for His Children all over the world. We are forever grateful to the Bear Valley Bible Institute in Denver, Colorado for their support and love over the years! The Eldership with all the brethren at Bear Valley are in our hearts and prayers always for this great Spiritual sacrifice toward build lasting legacy for generations to come in Ondo State! I truly appreciate your love and vision.

Evangelism: First quarter of 2024 is very interesting and important to us here in Ondo State! We were able through the help of God to have baptized a pastor in a denominational Church who have decided to follow Jesus' word and His Church! All glory be to God Almighty, Amen. His name is Taiwo Adepetun. l have encouraged him to enroll with Bear Valley Bible Institute, Ondo center! He is now a student of the School. 

Today been 30th March, 2024, The School in Ondo City went out to preach the gospel again in Sabo Orimolade area in Ondo City with the hope of establishing the Lord's Church in that area! We had many prospects today! We are planning to go back again in order to organize three days Open Air preaching there! the people there were very receptive to the gospel of Christ!

In Akure center, We went to Ilu- abo again in Airport area in Akure! As l have reported last quarter, two of our new students are from that area! The Church there need more hands and we are ready to fill the gap! All the students and instructors were there to assist the Church in that area. We are grateful to be useful tools in the hands of God Almighty.

Classroom activities: In all the two centers classroom activities went as planned!

January 2024 - Brother Victor Fasonu taught the book of Revelation, while Brother Godwin Emmanuel taught Old Testament - 5 minor prophets in Akure center.

February, 2024 - Brother Rowland taught 1& 2 Thessalonians in Ondo center while Brother Oke taught Hebrews in Akure center.

March, 2024 - Brother Oke taught Hebrews in Ondo center, while Brother Rowland taught 1 & 2 Thessalonians in Akure center.

As a school, we are happy that our students are in their third year of study! Our God will see them through, Amen.

Brother Philip Iwere is a student of the school at Akure study center! He is 65 years old. He is married with Children in the Lord! He is very matured and courageous student of the Bible! He is happy learning the word of God. He very active in the Classroom and a loving personality among the students! The School is lucky to have him as a student. He is one of the faithful member of the Lord's Church at No, 13 Leo Street, Akure. After graduation, he is willing to preach the undiluted gospel of Christ. 

Financial Report: As a School, we have received support for our work in the School from January to March, 2024!  We want to thank Bear Valley Bible Institute, Denver for their support!

Miscellaneous: For now, we are grateful for the provision of our present needs! We are very happy! 

Beloved brethren, as a school in Ondo State! We are committed toward the growth and development of the school. Once again thank you for your love and support again and again! We know opportunity to make greater exploits doesn't come easy! We are determined in our resolution to remain a pacesetter.

Thank you and remain blessed, Amen. 

Fasonu Victor

Coordinator, 

Bear Valley Bible Institute, Ondo State. 

Baptisms in Ikorodu, Nigeria

Bear Valley Bible Institute- Nigeria (Ikorodu Study Centre)

 We are grateful to God for sustaining our lives. The students and staffs of BVBIN Ikorodu appreciate you all. We send greetings to BVBIN Management. God bless you all.

1. In Ikorodu centre, we have 20 students. All are regular and punctual in the class.

2. We have three instructors to handle the subjects. They are very effective and punctual in the class.

3. The Lectures we studied from January to March were:

a. Jan- Personal Evangelism. It was handle by bro Okoro Chinyere

b. Feb- Pastoral Epistles. It was handled by bro Noel Brain Otuwho

c. March- Homiletics. It was handled by bro Olufemi Adewuyi.

4. On the first Sunday of March, the students and the staffs of BVBIN IKORODU assisted Ori-Okuta in Open Air Lecture

5. One of our Student by the name Isaac Ukpon baptized a husband and the wife through personal evangelism. That brings to us five baptism within three months.

6. At the end of March, we went out for Evangelism both the instructors and students. We had 3 baptisms.

7. We plan for internal lectureship on 1st April, 2024.

Theme: know the will of God for your Life.

We are expecting 150 participants.

 We remain grateful to God for your support which enable us to know the scripture better. Which also gives us the boldness to speak with denominational Pastor.

Thank you for your support. God bless you in Jesus Christ name. Amen.

Mfon Etim Adeh 

(Ikorodu Study Centre)

Perseverance in Nigeria

SABO ONIBA/LAGOS ISLAND CENTERS REPORT  January to March 2024 

Introduction: As I grow older, each government leader that comes to lead in my beloved Country will give us hope of better times however, it is the case that the previous leadership seems better than the new one. My Country is really facing challenging times presently. Your prayer for Nigeria is highly coveted. In the midst of all these, the work of the kingdom is moving forward. We have good news as the first set of students from Lagos Island Center will be graduating with an Advanced Diploma this month after working hard for four years. Once again, we want to thank the instructors for being resilient all this time. The efforts of Stoney Point Church of Christ will not go unappreciated for supporting and praying for us all these years. The unrelenting work of Bro Makinde, Bro Chad, and Keith to these successes is highly appreciated.

In another vain, Am happy to be found useful in being one of the resource persons during the 2024 WBS Great Workshop in Ukpom Abak.

ACADEMIC ACTIVITIES IN SABO-ONIBA/LAGOS ISLAND: We thank God that we were able to have another 12 students in Lagos Island school, five of them were those who had taken some courses with the graduating students while 7 are new students who started this year January. We had to start the courses afresh this quarter.  Femi Adewuyi explained English/Research Methodology to the new students. While  Ibanga Udoh the host minister who is our New Instructor in this center took the students on Life of Christ 3 (Book of Luke) and Life Of Christ – 1 (Matthew) was led by Austine Ani.

In Sabo-Oniba, Homiletics 1  was taken by Austine Ani, Personal Evangelism by Okoro Chinyere and Pastoral Epistles was taken by Noel Brain Otuwho. Sabo Center is wasking stronger as the church in this area is already feeling the impact of the school in their church life.

CAMPAIGN PROGRAM: We had a lovely and captivating outing in our campaign last month. It was a visit to a small community called Iledu in Badagry area. We were in the company of Mile 2 Badagry General Evangelism program. The colorful T-Shirt of our students became a point of attraction to all. At the end of the event, 3 souls were brought into the kingdom of light.

New Congregational Preaching Work for One of Our Instructors:    Bro Austine Ani who will be graduating as a degree holder in Biblical Studies from BVBI Ibadan program has been part of us since Sabo Center started. He was working with a small congregation in Igando area of Lagos State. However as the Dantoge Refinery is about to kick off after many years of construction, our brethren working with different companies involved in the work worshipping in the area. This local congregation located at Eleko is where Ani is working now. We pray that he helps make that congregation a missionary church in that new Lagos.

Conclusion: We once again thank God for the journey so far. We also appreciate all who have been so supportive in one way or the other.

Thanks and God bless you all.

TIM IWE

Strong first quarter in Lusaka, Zambia

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE LUSAKA

FIRST QUARTER REPORT FOR THE YEAR 2024

INTRODUCTION

On behalf of the staff from the Bear Valley Bible Institute Lusaka, I wish to submit this First Quarter Report for the year 2024.

COURSES COVERED

The courses covered were three as shown below, giving us a total of 26 taught so far.

Marriage and Family. - the wives of the married students were also in attendance during the presentation of this course. Others are Hermeneutics and 1 Corinthians.

On average, we had 12 students who attended the classes in the quarter under review.

OUTREACH PROGRAMS

In the month of February, the Bear Valley Bible Institute students undertook a three day evangelism program at the University of Zambia and the Natural Resources Development College. The purpose of this activity was for evangelism to the higher learning institutions. On the other hand, this activity helped the church of Christ students locate the congregations that could be near to their learning institutions for worship services. The outcome of this activity, did not only benefit Lusaka Central church of Christ but also other sister congregations in Lusaka.

In the same month of February, the staff undertook a church planting ground work survey at Situmbeko area which is about 44 miles away from Lusaka’s central business district (CBD). The reception from the local community was overwhelming with the church planting program and this is scheduled for the month of May 2024.

In the month of March, the BVBI team had a two day outreach program at Kayosha church of Christ located at 15 miles from Lusaka’s CBD. While the students were out for evangelism, the staff was teaching on the lesson of Marriage and Family to the couples at the same congregation. The activity did not only increase the number of the congregations numerically, but also strengthened the family relationships.

In the same month of March, the BVBI team attended an evangelism workshop which was conducted by the visiting brothers from India in conjunction with the Chilenje church of Christ. The activity exposed our students to other evangelism technics.

The month of March closed with a Church General Conference which was held in the Southern Province of Zambia during the Easter Holiday and the BVBI staff was one of the speakers at the conference which was attended by 4,180 members.

In the quarter under review, students from their respective congregations were involved in teaching the new converts, Bible study classes and preaching.

Other students continued preaching to the inmates in the local prisons of Lusaka.

BAPTISMS

The BVBI team recorded a total number of 28 baptisms from the above executed activities in the quarter under review. That is, 15 baptisms were recorded from the conference, 7 baptisms from the implemented evangelism programs, and 6 baptisms from the congregations where the students fellowship.

RESTORATIONS

The total number of 81 restorations was recorded in the quarter under review. That is, 53 from the conference, 15 from the outreach program and 13 from the congregations where the students fellowship.

GUEST

The BVBI Lusaka was privileged to be visited by Brother Donnie Estep. During his visit, we took a trip to meet with the leadership at Chunga church of Christ where three of our students congregate. We also visited Chilenje church of Christ where two of our instructors congregate and attended the brothers Bible study class. On March 24, the Lusaka Central congregation was grateful to fellowship with Brother Donnie during the worship service.

CONCLUSION

The BVBI Lusaka is grateful for the continued support being invested in the advancement of the gospel of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and the growing of the Kingdom of God.

Jonah Siyanga and the Staff. 

Special guests in Cameroon

Dearest in Christ,

Greetings from Cameroon,

  I have gone some time now without sending my reports across the ocean due to many issues concerning internet receptivity in my area. We give thanks to God that we can have this opportunity to say hello, and to make known to you, what is happening in the vineyard here in Wotutu, under our care. We pray this report meets you in good health and in resounding faith as you do God’s business in your own area.

  God has been active with us here. Since December, as the students of the Bear valley Bible institute travelled to 20 different locations for mission work, and God gave the grace and the increase, even in some places amidst the crisis. We always sing, “Anywhere with Jesus I Can Safely Go.” All of them were able to return back to campus safe and sound with good news about souls being saved, but bad news about the ongoing crisis in our beloved country.

  The work here continues to be in progress daily and we give all the glory back to God. It can only be God! The year 2024 started well for us, even though many students returned back to campus sick. All is under control medically at this time though. Thanks for your daily prayers over the work here.

  The year 2024 started well, and have already received a special blessing by us having special guests, minister Denny Petrillo and minister David Wayne Jones from the main campus of Bear valley Bible Institute International in Denver, come to Wotutu to teach, observe, and visit. Our students formed a line to give them a red-carpet reception on our campus in Wotutu. It was a privileged to have such humble servants of the cross, here in Cameroon.

  These servants of God were in Cameroon for God’s business of training faithful men to be fully prepared to carry the gospel of Jesus Christ to the ends of this country Cameroon. They had an agenda, to teach the book of II Corinthians. It was great for our students to have the opportunity to tap from these two vessels, who are full of the knowledge of God’s word. We continue to thank God for their coming, and for the way they helped our students to learn.

  These two great men co-taught the book of II Corinthians, chapter after chapter, from the introduction all the way to the end of the final chapter. We were really blessed by their presence, even though brother Wayne was sick for a couple of days. He bounced back though and was able to finish his assignment. This assignment took him across the ocean to Africa, for his very first time.

  We had a family picture with them in from of the Bible building to immortalized their memories with us.

We also had a joint meeting with the instructors from both the Bear valley Bible institute Cameroon -Mbanga, which is French, and those from the BVBIC-Wotutu which is English. The meeting was very good, as it was characterized with much appreciation, as well as appeals to upgrade the Bear Valley school in Cameroon to the level that it can issue out a BA in Bible. We keep praying to God to be with the authorities that be as they ponder and plan. We pray that if God will, it can come to pass during our time here.

During the last quarter’s mission work in December by our students, the Lord added 33 souls into His church, 12 Christians were restored to the faith, 1 new congregation established, and 2 congregations were restored.

PLANS

Evangelism is our mission and our mission is evangelism. Evangelism is always in our plans and is always top on our agenda.

APPRECIATIONS

 Thank you for your prayers, for your concern, and your support towards the Lord’s work here. They are contributing a lot, towards keeping the work in the space it is now. Please share our reports with others. May God bless you. Make a great week.

Elangwe and family

By His grace, director BVBIC-Wotutu

Reaching the lost in northern Ghana

BEAR VALLEY INSTITUTE OF BIBLICAL STUDIES, TAMALE - GHANA

JANUARY 2024 OPERATING REPORT

The year 2023 ended successfully on a high note; giving us a lot of anxiety for the year 2024. We give glory to God for crossing all of us through into the year 2024. In the month of January, 2024, we kicked started the year 2024 with lots of hope for the future. We started 2024 in higher grounds, praying that the year will move forward in a very positive direction as we are hoping for. We wish all a happy new year. And we hope the Lord keeps us all safe till the day appointed for eternity. Below are a series of activities we engaged in the month of January 2024.

KPALSI SOUTH CONGREGATION

Leadership is one of the greatest arms of the church that can bring growth in all areas of every congregation. Leaders were appointed in the year 2023 for the Lord’s church in the local congregation in Kpalsi South. We saw it necessary, for a smooth progress of the congregation, to reinforce the leadership in January 2024 for a more effective and sound running of the congregation. New leaders were added, while some of the old ones were replaced, and some moved from where they were serving to a more suitable area. We praise God for guiding us as a congregation to run effectively.

We also in the month of January hosted a love feast that brought together members of our congregation, neighbors (most were Muslims) and sister congregations in Tamale. We took advantage of the event to share the word of God and we shared some physical supper with them. It was an admirable event.

In the month of January 2024 also, one soul was added to the Lord’s church by the grace and mercy of God. We praise God for the many blessings we continue to enjoy.

Kpalsi South congregation indeed received some extreme blessings in January 2024. Brother Steven Ashcraft was also in Tamale, and did bless us with some great spiritual meals on giving. We pray that the Lord gives long life, peace and good health. We pray not for only him, but him and his entire family.  

EVANGELISTIC STEPS

It is emphatically true without a bit of doubt that evangelism (soul winning) is the center of God’s heart. Christ died because of souls. He died to seek and to save the lost as stated in Luke 19:10. Brother Steven Ashcraft, with his absolute commitment for mission work and souls, was in Ghana in the month of January, and came to Northern Ghana, precisely Tamale to embark on some fruitful activities towards our evangelistic efforts. Haven inspired us to increase our evangelistic efforts by establishing evangelistic teams across Northern Ghana, it was necessary for him to come evaluate, strengthen and encourage us for the work ahead of us.

STAFF MEETING: Brother Steven’s first activity when he arrived in Tamale was to hold a staff meeting with the resident staff in the school to evaluate the work being done. He took time to guide and instruct us on the way things could be done more effectively for a much better result. Some of the things discussed were related to administration, recruitment for the next batch, the need for better team work, the evangelistic efforts within Tamale, and the entire Northern Ghana and also cross border evangelistic work. We had a very successful discussion with a wonderful and harmonious end.

MEET WITH EVENAGLIST TEAMS: The second meeting he held was with the evangelistic teams established across Northern Ghana. Brother Steven took time to define our common goal, which is to save souls and establish and maintain strong congregations. He further gave some ideas and ways we could achieve this goal. Provision was made for individual teams to make a brief presentation on how each of them goes about their work in their localities. Brother Steven came back to encourage each of them and gave his comments on what they could do better for a much better result.

MEETING WITH EVANGELISTS FROM TOGO AND GHANA: Brother Steven also held a meeting with the Tamale staffs who are into evangelistic work with two evangelists from Togo to exchange some knowledge and ideas to see how possible we could collaborate to work in the border cities between the two nations and possibly other nations that share borders with us. There is also currently a denominational preacher and members' conversion lessons that are going on in Tamale that we in Tamale learned from the brethren from Togo through Brother Steven. Their presence was an opportunity for us to tap into their success stories and make good use of it. Meeting them gave us a better perspective of what works better for that and what doesn’t, with them being the pioneers. We also considered the need for us to work together in our efforts to reach out to some of the Francophone nations. It was also a wonderful meeting.

MISSIONARY JOURNEY TO SAMPA (GHANA) AND BONDOUKOU (IVORY COAST): The two evangelists from Togo (Fidele and Cephas), together with Brother James Legend (Ghana Tamale), embarked on a missionary journey with Brother Steven Ashcraft after the meetings in Tamale which all took place between the 12th and the 15th of January, 2024 to Sampa, under the Bono Region in Ghana.

At Sampa, they met with the Preach for the only congregation in Sampa and some of the sisters who were available to discuss matters of the church and possible evangelistic work. We had a very smooth discussion, where we considered the possibility of the brethren in Sampa working with the Brethren in Bondoukou for effective missionary work. It was a very fruitful dialogue, which got the preacher for Sampa (Brother Sa-Yaw David) inspired to join us to cross the border to Bondoukou to meet with the Brethren there for better conclusion.

We all crossed the Border into Ivory Coast, to meet with the brethren in Bondoukou. Brother Koffi Roger, an evangelist from Abijan in Ivory Coast also traveled to join the team at Bondoukou for the missionary journey. We met Brother Amadou Logossina Quattara, who is the evangelist for the congregation in Bondoukou town in his residence. A very fruitful meeting took place, but was inconclusive, because it was necessary to have some of the evangelists who are from that locality, and are working with Brother Amadou to contribute to the discussion.  Brother James and Brother David (from Sampa) who are Ghanaian were tasked to return to Sampa and lodge, so they hold a meeting the following day with Brother Amadou and all the concerned evangelists included to find a way forward. Brother Steven and the rest of the team lodged at Bondoukou that day, which was the 17th of January, 2024 so they could continue with the missionary journey forward, toward Sera-León, Liberia, Guinea etc.

As planned, Brother James and Brother David went and lodged at Sampa, and returned to Bondoukou on the 18th of January, 2024 for the meeting. Four additional evangelists join the meeting together with Brother Amadou, James and David. A very fruitful conclusion was drawn at the end of the meeting. The Brethren from Bondoukou were ready and did accept to team up and work as a team to help strengthen, restore and plant new congregations in their area. They also saw the need for them to train up leaders and possibly also implement the denominational program to help convert denominational pastors and leaders into the Lord’s church. We also agree that the brethren from Ghana and Togo make time and join the brethren in Bondoukou to inspire, encourage and help in their efforts. After the meeting, Brother David and James Returned to Ghana and James proceeded from Sampa to Tamale. We praise the Lord.

AIDING WORKING EVANGELIST

In the month January 2024, as part of the efforts of Brother Steven to encourage evangelists who are doing their best for the work of our master Jesus, he made funds available to purchase a motor bike for one of the committed preachers in the Upper East Region. He is Brother Elijah from Sandema, who works for the Sandema Wiega Congregation. He is also working with the Sandema Bolga Evangelistic team. Brother Elijah was very appreciative with support given to him to aid him in his work as a preacher. He pledges to do his best to use the machine for the interest of Christ. Words of encouragement were also given to him during the presentation ceremony.  

JOINT EVANGELISTIC CAMPAIGN

Towards the end of the month of January, we embarked on a joint evangelistic campaign to the North East Region, precisely, Bunkpurugu. We embarked on a one week church strengthening mission. The Tamale evangelistic team together with the students and the Bunkpurugu team came together to embark on this one week journey. We had a very fruitful journey. We had door to door or one on one studies with individuals throughout, as well as the public preaching in the evenings.

Topics treated at the public preaching were, the three dispensations, the one true Church, The Holy Spirit and Miraculous Gifts, Worship of the Church and the Judgement of God. Indeed, all the activities that took place were worth it.  At the end of the program, 28 souls were added to the Lord’s Church, with 5 restored successfully. We give God the glory.

It is our hope that God will help us do more for His kingdom this year forth.

Thank you,

Bear Valley Tamale

Souls being saved in Guinea

To you our fraternal greetings in Christ

Please see below the report of activity for February 2024

Introduction:

We, Bear Valley of Gueckedou have the duty to inform you in the smallest details the result of the activities carried out in the vineyard of God in Gueckedou. 

As you know, for the vineyard to be productive, there are various activities that need to be carried out by third parties using different methods and strategies.

In the rest of this report we'll be talking about.

1. Classroom teaching

2. Evangelism in all its forms

3. Restoration of the Church of Bardou 

4. History of the Church in Sandia 

And finally, the conclusion.

I-Teaching/Class room 

The only way to avoid apostasy or to fight against it is to teach holy doctrine to faithful men who are able of dispensing it rightly to others.

During the month of February 2024, a total of 3 courses were taught:

1-Biblical Geography taught by Francis Lavalay. For a week, students literally traveled around Israel, visiting in spirit the strategic points where God's children lived from Abraham to Jesus.

2-Biblical principles and advice taught by Antoine Fasse, Dean of Students.

3-Comparative study of religions taught by Niouma 2 Kamano.

II- Evangelism.

The epicenter of all our activities is evangelism, by which we reduce the kingdom of Satan to enlarge that of God. To carry out evangelism successfully, we use financial and material resources, as well as various methods and strategies, and then the right people.

One of the methods that has won us a lot of souls is  composing of evangelism teams coordinated by Francis S Musa and initiated by our coordinator Steven Ashcraft. 

In February 2024, the evangelism team of Yaradou Kongonani led by Eloi Tolno, a graduate of Bear Valley in Gueckedou, went to Sandia to evangelize. After the Gospel proclaiming by Francis S Musa followed by public interactions, a total of 42 men and women believed and were baptized in the Boya River on 05/02/2024. This means that a new congregation born in this village. The following week after the Sunday service 11 people accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as their savior, and were immediately baptized for the forgiveness of sins.

P.S: When the news arrived, that the village was delighted by the strong mobilization and massive adhesion of the population of the village of Sandia to the Church of Christ. The Protestant church, which was the first to join, disturbed, so they dispatched a mission of 8 motorcycles to intimidate people into not subscribing to their former church (Protestant). But their move was in vain. So they demanded by force the portion of land offered to them to build the hall of worship.

To avoid arguments, the entire village, now mostly members of the Church of Christ, agreed to cede the compromised plot. Noted that the Protestant church has a portion of land in Sandia, but no members. 

For according to information, only 3 persons remain as their members.

In the same vein, we also note the conversion of 3 persons through the personal evangelism of certain current students, namely Balla Frangadouno in Kendessoua and Saa Jules Simbiano in Yassadou. 

He also had baptism of a young couple from the family of our brother Saa Robert Kamano, following his exhortations.

III-Restoration of the Bardou church

In 2022, during an evangelistic campaign, a team led by Emmanuel Kamano visited the village of Bardou. 

For three days, they evangelized door-to-door and held a public meeting. With the support of the Holy Spirit, 24 people believed and were baptized in the name of Jesus. Thus began the church of Christ in this village. 

But due to a lack of preachers, the congregation faltered. 

On 24/02/2024, the evangelism team of Koundou Lengo Bengou , coordinated by Francis Musa, went to restore the church. During 2 days of exhortations, they succeeded in convincing and reanimating their faith. 

There were also 5 people who obeyed the Gospel baptized, and the Lord added them to his Church.

IV- History of the Church in Sandia 

Sandia is a village located about 5 km north of the town of Gueckedou, at an elevation of 200m.

The population is Kissi and their main activity is agriculture.

 Before the arrival of the Church of Christ, the majority of the population had been Protestant Christians since 1990. 

Following visits by Eloi Tolno the preacher of the Fassaba congregation, who held religious debates with certain people, they became interested in the doctrine of the Church of Christ. As a result, his evangelism team, accompanied by Francis S Musa and financially assisted by our coordinator Steven Ashcraft, went out to do a public evangelism on 05/02/2024. Resulting in the conversion of 42 people, and the beginning of a new congregation of the Lord's church.

Conclusion

February was a very productive month for evangelism. 

A new congregation was planted and 60 people received their passport to the kingdom of God through baptism in the name of Jesus.

We are grateful to God the omnipotent for his assistance through the Holy Spirit in the successful realization of our evangelistic programs.

We would also like to thank Bear Valley International, our main financial partner, who ensures the smooth running of the school both financially and materially.

We also thank our coordinator Steven Ashcraft, for his strategic management of evangelism and administrating of Bear Valley School in Gueckedou. He is always ready and willing to provide for the financial and material needs of evangelism.

We thank the coordinator of the evangelism teams in Guinea Francis S Musa and the team leader of Yaradou Kongonani Eloi Tolno for their commitment to the Lord's work.

We thank Barry Baggott and his team for the biblical literature they send us for evangelism and useful for the edification of the members.

We also thank the brothers and sisters of the congregations from near and far who contribute whatever they can to the progress of the Church of Christ in Guinea.

We close by quoting this passage from the Bible which reads<< So, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, working better and better at the Lord`s work, knowing that your labor will not be in vain in the Lord>>. 1 Corinthians 15:58

Many activities in Nigeria

February 2024 REPORT

Beloved in Christ Jesus,

Grace, mercy and peace from God be multiplied unto you all from God our Father and from Jesus Christ, our Lord and Redeemer.

Below is the summary of our activities for the month of February 2024.

OVERVIEW

A month Vocational Studies/Break

Students resume for 3rd Semester Sesion

Compilation of some of my teaching and preaching

Solemnization of Holy Matrimony of two of our graduates

VOTI and How God speaks Book Aid in conversions

Nigerian request for more Mission Printing Tracts for Evangelism

Chad Wagner 's Open Hall Commissioned.

World Video Bible School program 

A MONTH VOCATIONAL STUDIES/BREAK

All our students and some instructors were actively participated in weekend evangelism outreach during the one month vocational studies/break of January 20 through Feb. 16,2024 in their respective locations.

Report reaching the school from both the students and the instructors shows the conversion of seven souls and restoration of ten erring brethren.

THIRD SEMESTER SESSION BEGINS

As the Lord will have it, our 3rd semester studies for 2023/24 session began on Feb 19,2024 with 28(twenty eight) students.

The instructors for this semester are: Bro. Eniafe Olukayode,Bro Isaac Olaniyan,Bro. Makinde John,Bro Samuel Effiong, Bro. Israel Tajomavwo,Bro. Odeyemi Durojaiye,and myself (Bro. Makinde Ebens), Bro Folorunsho Richard and Sis. Oyenuga Esther will continue to serve as Computer instructors

SOLEMNIZATION OF HOLY MATRIMONY OF TWO OF OUR YEAR 2021 GRADUATES:

 Two of our graduates from the class of 2021 have recently tied the knot. Bro. Imbia Maxfied Eleganwe, hailing from the English-speaking region of Cameroon, exchanged vows with Sister Deborah Fashola from the Gbagi congregation in Ibadan. Their union was solemnization on February 17, 2024, at the SDP headquarters in Egbeda Local Government Area, Oyo State. The registry formalities took place there, followed by an engagement and marriage ceremony held in an open space in the Iyana Agbala area of Ibadan, spanning from 12:55 pm to 3:48 pm.

The event was attended by witnesses including some graduates from BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN, as well as members of the Lord's church from Gbagi, Kube, Mile 12- Lagos, Mile 12.5 - Lagos, along with friends and relatives of the Fashola family.

May the Lord bless their union abundantly and grant them a fruitful life together in Christ Jesus. Amen.

VOTI AND HOW GOD SPEAKS BOOK AID IN CONVERSIONS

A report reaching our office in Ibadan from some of the recipients of VOTI Vol. 117 & 118 and the recent book 'How God Speaks' shows that eighteen souls(18) were converted and thirty seven erring brethren were restored between December 2023 and February 18th, 2024, in both the Eastern and Western parts of the country, Nigeria, through the use of the Voice of Truth booklet and 'How God Speaks

NIGERIAN BRETHREN NEED MORE MISSION PRINTING TRACTS:

Over 80% of brethren in Nigeria are requesting for Mission Printing tracts and gospel literature for their weekend evangelism outreach. For example, many of the WBSFUW/evangelists who attended this year's Great Workshop in NCBC Ukpom-Aba, Akwa-Ibom State, have expressed a need for cartons of the small Songs Book produced by Mission Printing, as well as trifolds tracts focusing on "What can I do to be saved?" and other Mission Printing booklets for evangelizing both rural and urban areas, and for nurturing young congregations and brethren across the country.

We extend our gratitude for the dedication of Brother Richard Renfro, President of Mission Printing International, for his unwavering commitment to serving the Lord through the printed page and for his swift response to this pressing need.

CHAD WAGNER 'S OPEN HALL COMMISSIONED:

The staff and students of BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN, led by me, Bro. Makinde, officially inaugurated the 2023/24 Capital Project (Chad Wagner's Open Hall) on February 26th.

The service was conducted by one of the instructors, Bro. Eniafe Olukayode, with opening prayers led by two students, Bro. Afolabi Olajide Emmanuel and Bro. Ogaji Isaac Emmanuel.

I, Bro. Makinde, had the privilege to cut the ribbon and formally commission the Hall for God's usage in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Refreshments, including soft drinks and biscuits, were served to all participants following the ceremony. To God be the glory.

The closing prayer was offered by the class captain, Bro. Akanmu Solomon. 

WVBS CLASS UPDATE:

Students have resumed their studies with the World Video Bible School class on February 18th and 25th, from 7:30 to 8:30 PM. Twenty-eight students and four instructors attended the first and second classes, focusing on Matthew 5:1-16, exploring the theme of the Light of the World.

To facilitate learning, the school authority downloaded the initial five lessons on "The Light of the World" from the World Video Bible School Apps for both students and staff within the school community. These sessions are scheduled for every Sunday evening.

We extend our gratitude to WVBS for their valuable contribution to our educational endeavors.

 ABOUT A STUDENT

Bro Emmanuel David Etta is one of our year-1 students, born on Oct. 26th, 2006 in Odon’gunyan-Ikorodu,Lagos State. He got baptized by Bro. Okoro Chinyere in 2021 at Ikorodu-Lagos, got admitted into our Ministerial department on August 2022.

He is presently assisting the Lord’s church at Egbeda-Ibadan every weekend.

His mission after his tertiary education is to be one of the competent servant of God in his local church

OUR ACCOMPLISHMENT

With the support from Austin Chapel Congregation and others, we were able to get 30,000 copies of six our local tracts printed for this year Evangelism outreach for the use of the School and young congregation within the Western States of Nigeria.

Conclusion: Thanks again for your partnership, encouragement and support. May the Lord continue to bless all our work together in Christ Jesus name, amen.

Sincerely yours in His Grace & Love as a servant...... Makinde Ebenezer Olufemi 

(The Chief Servant of BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN and WBSFUW )

Improvements in Liberia

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE

LIBERIA

January 2024 Operation Report

 INTRODUCTION

Another New Year has come meeting us in good health and sound mind by the grace of God to continue the Lord's work as per His commands. We say Happy and a prosperous new year to you all. We remain thankful to God Almighty for His grace, and many blessing He keeps bestowing upon us daily. We are also appreciative to all that are making it possible through their selfless sacrifices for the sake of God’s Kingdom.

SCHOOL RESUMED

After a long break from September 30, 2023 to January 2024, The Bear Valley Bible Institute-Liberia resumed normal school operations on January 22, 2024.

Students Orientation started January 15-19, 2024 with Nine (9) students in attendance. Classes began with ten (10) students out of the eighteen (18) registered students on January 22, 2024.

2024 QUARTER ONE COURSES AND INSTRUCTORS

 Our 1st quarter begins after the break with the following courses and assigned instructors.

1.     Research & writing ----------------------------- Bro. Alpha Beweh

2.     How we got the Bible ---------------------------- Bro. Fester G. Lee

3.     God’s Scheme of Redemption ------------------ Bro. T. Joel Weah

4.     Old Testament I ----------------------------------- Bro. O.D.K. Zakamah

5.     Personal Evangelism I --------------------------- Bro. Thomas B. Jimmy

6.     Christian Evidences ------------------------------ Bro. Fester G. Lee

7.     General Agriculture ------------------------------ Bro. Samuel B.K. Jabaty

8.     Computer Class -------------------------------- Anstrong Dolopyie 

Preparing to move the school to Sanniquellie

The four months break after Batch three (3)’s graduation came as a result of a decision of the Bear Valley Bible Institute Denver Colorado authority through Bro. Steven Ashcraft the West African Coordinator to relocate the School from Ganta to Sanniquellie City, The Capital of Nimba County. The break was meant to give us time to prepare for the relocation.

However, due to the delay in preparing the Sanniquellie Building to host the school, the BVBI-L administration in consultation with Bro. Steven Ashcraft, came up with a consensus to resume classes in Ganta while the Sanniquellie preparation goes on for continuation of normal school activities. As it stands, said building is nearing completion and hopefully, the second term or quarters two of Batch Four (4) year one which begins April 22, 2024 will start in Sanniquellie.  

REPLACEMENT OF INSTRUCTORS

The BVBI-L administration in consultation with Bro. Steven Ashcraft has appointed two instructors for replacement. Bro. Samuel B.K. Jabaty to replaced Mr. Meanto Bembo the Agriculture instructor who is not prepared to move to Sanniquellie and Bro. Thomas B. Jimmy Dean Of Students to replace Fester G. Lee.

STUDENT’s PROFILE

Ezekiel S. Penzue is one of the students of the fourth batch. He is passionate about his study of the word of God and his desire to become a Gospel Preacher. Penzue was born on Tuesday January 23, 2001 in Gbayblin town, Nimba County Liberia. He was working with the local congregation in His home town. He became a Christian in March 2022. His love for God and for the truth brought him to attend the Bear Valley Bible Institute. When asked of his future plans and dreams, he said firstly, He wants to be an Evangelist of the Lord's church and he also want to become an educator.

CONCLUSION:

Without your love for God and your constant support, we won't have come this far with the huge work we have here. Please accept our heartfelt gratitude for spiritual and financial assistance. We are eternally grateful to each and every of you. To God be the glory, praise and honor.

Kind Regards

Fester G. Lee

Director, BVBI-Liberia