Last Service & Extension Programme

This morning saw our last church service here in Zambia, shared with about 300 people at Mwamfuli CMML Church. Peter Chomba (still away on extension programme teaching on Chishi Island) and Francis Chola (both bible school teachers) are elders in this church. There are also some graduates active in the ministry here and it is encouraging to see the church active in section groups for encouragement and support. Two men repented and came back to the Lord during the service – they were prayed for and were to be counselled after the service. The choirs were amazing (three with two songs each before and after the preaching!).

The extension programme that the Bible School is working on, draws graduates from village areas and leaders from their churches. The training is run in their areas, and for the first 10 months there are two day workshops that focus on practical discipleship in these rural areas. The programme continues in the next year, however the Bible School staff are equipping graduates who are stepping up to be involved in leading the training especially in the second year. There are three extension areas at the moment and the plan is to gradually role these out wherever graduates are working. The training also identifies excellent prospects for the one year Bible Programme. The number of students in these areas is between 30-100 in the different areas – this is expanding the training from Samfya significantly and focusing on the missing discipleship in the churches.

With four major programmes happening, the one year certificate in Biblical Studies, the second year certificate in Biblical Ministry, the village extension programmes and the school holiday programme taught in English (about a three year commitment), the pressure on the teachers is significant. There is a need to see the teaching staff increase from four to six – this is funding dependant.

Praise God for a dedicated committed team of workers in this ministry. They achieve much with very little comparative to New Zealand terms. A worthy work,  making a real difference for eternity.

 Inside the church - missing two wings left and right!

 Sunday School in progress over 100 kids

 

Further staff updates coming