tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74378863106563293172024-03-14T11:28:57.617+13:00rbcinafricaAn update from Donald Stevenson on the visits to Uganda, Zambia and The Democratic Republic of Congo as part of the missions work of Riverbend Bible Church.Donald Stevensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534798292577016668noreply@blogger.comBlogger171125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7437886310656329317.post-67271935588826384822013-08-10T13:30:00.002+12:002013-08-10T13:44:04.349+12:002013 Visit 15 August - 1 SeptemberGreetings all. Along with James Major and Roger Wharrie, I set off for another time of teaching and encouragement at Samfya Bible School. I am now the Pastor of Fenton Park Bible Church in Rotorua, so maybe the blog name should change - no it shouldn't as Riverbend Bible Church remains the significant partner to the ministry at SBS! We will really value your prayers during the trip. I have a very heavy teaching workload over the three weekends and two weeks - please pray for strength and clarity in all that I do. Here is the itinerary for your information. Thanks for your interest in this vital work.<br />
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13 Aug. Depart
evening overnight Auckland, then Sydney,<br /> Joburg, Ndola…<br />
15 Aug. Arrive at Samfya<br />
16-18 Aug. Village leadership
training at Musonda Falls<br /> (130 kms)<br />
19-23 Aug. Student Training <br /> -
doctrines of Man, Sin, & Salvation 8am-1pm<br /> - 1 & 2 Timothy 2-4pm<br />
23-25 Aug. Village leadership
training at Kale (50 Kms)<br />
26-30 Aug. Student Training <br /> - doctrine of the church 8am -1pm<br /> - 1 & 2 Timothy 2-4pm<br /> - late afternoons
teaching at a Regional Conference <br /> 20 Kms away, teaching on Firm Foundations
for <br /> Church Life &Ministry<br />
30 Aug-1 Sept. Village leadership
training at Chishi Island (2 1/2hrs <br /> by boat)<br />
2 Sept. Fly to
Johannesburg<br />
3 Sept. Fly home via
Sydney<br />
5 Sept. Arrive Rotorua
airport at 5:35pm<br />
<b>Please pray for strength and health to
achieve a very full teaching workload, and opportunity to encourage the Bible
School staff in their important work.</b><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
Donald Stevensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534798292577016668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7437886310656329317.post-84549931439524667762012-11-07T14:36:00.001+13:002012-11-07T14:36:16.448+13:00Biblical Counselling Training for Francis Chola<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Meet the teaching staff of Samfya Bible School - Francis,
Peter, Levy<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>& Aaron. These men are
critical to the ongoing work of the training ministry and they need ongoing
encouragement and training to help them deliver with excellence the training
for the village churches.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">In 2010-2011 Peter Chomba was sponsored to go and do
training in South Africa in Biblical Counselling studying under Dr Wayne Mack
and Dr Joel James. This training had significant impact on his teaching
ministry at the Bible School and the blessing has been passed on to graduates
and their home churches. IN FACT Peter is currently writing a booklet in Bemba
for use in Biblical Counselling!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We now have opportunity to see Francis Chola undertake this
training. It would be done over five one week blocks in February, March and
October 2013 and February and March 2014. To achieve this training we need to
come up with sponsorship for Francis which includes airfares, buses, living
expenses and course fees. The total amounts to NZ$1115 per week of classes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Would you please pray for this need? Maybe your church or your
small group would like to help with this, perhaps sponsoring one week of
training. Any amount of help will be a blessing. Here is Francis translating for Donald Stevsnson 08/2012.</span></div>
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Donald Stevensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534798292577016668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7437886310656329317.post-43003106937274848012012-11-01T09:11:00.002+13:002012-11-01T09:11:14.868+13:00<br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Dear Friends
of Samfya Bible School,<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Graduation
has happened and while this year had a smaller intake of students, they all
leave well prepared for ministry in their local churches.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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</o:lock></v:path></v:stroke></span></v:shapetype></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Please
notice that the graduation ceremony occurred in the new Multi Purpose Hall,
which is still under construction, but is a very usable and functional
building. Principal Levy Kasoma reports about the training of the students:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The students were equipped with both
theory and practical courses such as Bible Interpretation and preaching.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">They were given a solid foundation in both
New and Old Testament survey.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">They also went through systematic
teachings on basic Bible doctrines such as the doctrine of God.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Praise God
for this good work and pray that these graduates will be effective in their
local church ministries. Next year sees the potential of a much larger student
group, possibly up to 30 students, as well as the introduction of a second year
course. Please pray for these plans and that the many potential students for 2013
would get their applications in soon.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We are in
the final stage of raising funds to complete the Multi Purpose Hall, with
around $3,500 needed to complete the construction. Please pray for this last
stage that it would be able to be completed before the end of this year. Your
support is valued and much appreciated by the Bible School staff.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Prayer
Items:
<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">For
Graduates to settle into effective church ministry<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">For
Student intake for 2013<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">For
development of the second year programme for 2013<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">For
the remaining $3,500 to complete the Multi Purpose Hall<o:p></o:p></span></span>Donald Stevensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534798292577016668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7437886310656329317.post-88616725212830393502012-09-25T10:08:00.001+12:002012-09-25T10:09:10.949+12:00Back In New Zealand<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Greetings friends of Samfya Bible School! I have been back
in New Zealand now for one week after a very encouraging time in the Zambia and
with excellent meetings with partners in UK & Singapore. I have come home
excited about the ongoing future for the Bible School and all that God is doing
through this ministry in rural churches.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">In my meetings in Singapore I briefly reflected on the truth
from our Lord Jesus that He is building his church. The bride of Christ is the
most precious entity on earth – it is His, it is what He is building and
working in and through, so what a privilege it is to partner with a ministry
that is all about strengthening, growing and blessing the ministry of the local
church in Bemba speaking Zambia.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">In leaving the staff at Samfya, I was encouraged by the
large number of potential students for 2013, the possibility of the second year
programme beginning in 2013, and also the new School Teachers training programme
that is going to see these teachers given a great Bible Programme to help them
in their ministries in the village areas that they are posted to by the government.
</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I was also very encouraged by the progress in buildings at
Samfya. We have five great new units for married couples, a three block
classroom, a new visiting lecturers house, a staff house just about finished
and the multi-purpose hall (kitchen, dining, conference) nearing completion,
but still needing about NZ$9000 to complete it. If you would like to assist
with this let me know!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Thank you for your faithfulness in praying for my time away
and for the ministry of Samfya. God is blessing this ministry and using it to
glorify His name! If you are interested in a visit to your church to speak
about this work please don’t hesitate to drop me a line.</span></div>
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The mullti-purpose hall - looking great but needing a little more finishingDonald Stevensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534798292577016668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7437886310656329317.post-75424912332810029742012-09-13T09:17:00.001+12:002012-09-13T09:18:44.713+12:00Update from the UK<span style="font-family: Calibri;">My journey south to Lusaka was via Mkushi where I meet with Mr
Moffat, the representative of the4 Beit Trust. We hope to put an application into
the trust for single student accommodation, so it was good to have some
thoughts on how to approach the application. I stayed at Chengelo School and
was able to catch up with Delwyn Houghton who teaches at the school – she has a very
busy life and needs your prayers for strength in her ministry at the school.</span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The following day I arrived in Lusaka and stayed with
Webster & Elisabeth Nonde and preached in their church Woodlands Baptist on
the Sunday. What a blessing to encourage and be encouraged by brothers and
sisters in Christ. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">On Monday I flew to London and have been able to learn of
the work of Grace Life London a new church plant in the Central City as I
stayed with Pastor Tom Drion and his wife Donna. The time here in the UK is to
meet with partners of Samfya and further encourage the ministry of the School.
This has gone well so far and I have a final meeting in Bath in the morning
before heading to Singapore in the evening. Please continue to pray for our
partners and that they will be encouraged with the reports that I bring of the
ministry.</span></div>
Donald Stevensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534798292577016668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7437886310656329317.post-86964988882376184282012-09-06T02:15:00.004+12:002012-09-06T02:15:37.165+12:00Charles – Hard Working Graduate!You may remember I reported on Charles in 2010. He had just returned from church planting in the Congo and reported about the church walls that had been blown in by severe winds. We were able to supply Bibles for the needy Christians there and the small amount of money raised was used to rebuild the walls – Charles showed me a picture of the grass roofed Church – very humble but functioning.<br />
<br />
Charles has again recently returned from a ministry trip to this area in DR Congo. He works with a team of five other evangelists and teachers. The aim of this visit was evangelism, teaching, training evangelists (Sowers Programme) and training a secretary. Charles reports that there were 58 people who placed their faith in Christ. He said that many of these were from Catholic backgrounds and indicated that any church involvement in this remote and forgotten part of Congo is devoid of the gospel and any churches are just social clubs. Praise God that this team is expending time, money and energy in seeing the life changing gospel message preached and bearing fruit.
<br />
<br />
Charles has two couples from his area that they are actively working to see attend Samfya Bible School next year. What a blessing that will be to the many churches that Charles gives encouragement through visitation and teaching by sharing the load with other equipped leaders. He has also indicated that one man in DR Congo form this new church plant is a very strong prospect to attend next year as well. Please pray that God will work in his heart and enable him to attend and become a blessing to this new work.
Thanks for you prayers. <br />
<br />
I leave Samfya on Friday and will have meeting in Mkushi with a representative of a trust based in Harare and London that sometimes fund infrastructure. Please pray for wisdom and insight in this meeting. Then on Saturday I arrive in Lusaka, teach at Woodlands Baptist Church on Sunday. On Monday I begin my return to New Zealand via the UK & Singapore and I would value your prayers for the meetings with various partners.
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Please also meet Dixon who is one of the Bible School board members. It has been decided that Dixon will be the new Project Manager for the infrastructure development here. His working life was involved in this area, and with his seniority he will demand respect and be able to keep his finger on the pulse. He will also oversee the maintenance programme to ensure that procedures are being followed and buildings cared for.Donald Stevensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534798292577016668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7437886310656329317.post-2042645828585623012012-09-03T07:21:00.001+12:002012-09-03T07:21:45.410+12:00<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Mupunda Church<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">What a wonderful Sunday with the believers at Mupunda. It is
so hard to describe the joy and oneness in Christ that I witnessed from this
church. We began with a communion service at 9:15am and I was able to give a
brief word form Colossians focused on the salvation that we have been blessed
with. This service was quickly followed by the main teaching service which then
extended through until close to 1pm!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I taught from 1 Corinthians 3:10-17 on “How to Protect the
Church” this precious bride of Christ. This was preceded by many hymns and then
the mandatory choir items – these people know how to sing! After my teaching
there was a special offering collected by the church. It was led from outside
the building by the Sunday School children coming in bringing gifts of food and
money all wrapped in cloths. This precession of children and then adults must
have continued for around 10 minutes. The songs were of great joy and they danced
as they came up the aisle of the church with gifts to give to the work of the
Lord.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The children were encouraged to be part of this because the
leaders of the church are focusing on needed teaching to the whole church on
how to give from the overflow of the heart – something many of these churches
have not focused on at all. The elders want all of the people to learn what it
is to give with a grateful heart to the Lord. Little did I know as all this was
happening, all the food that was coming in was for me to take back to
Samfya!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was Kasava, ground nuts,
popcorn, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, maize meal... How humbling to receive this
from the overflow of their hearts – I must confess at times I had tears in my
eyes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">This church is alive! It is wonderful to see the evidence of
a strong children’s and youth ministry. The women’s ministry is excelling under
the leadership of a Samfya Bible School graduate. They are evangelising both
door to door and in the market place as they reach out to their community. These
people are clearly being taught well and love the Lord.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">After the service we retired to the house of one of the
elders and waited for a most delicious meal to be served. Again their
hospitality was an amazing blessing! We had a discussion after the meal – I have
been in many of these before. This one was different – it was not just the
elders, but the deacons and the deaconesses as well. These people are working
together like I have never witnessed in a village church before – they love
each other and they love to serve the body!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The needs in a church like this continue to be resource
material for Sunday School, Youth work, Bibles... As you will see in the photos
they are also in the process of building a new church building – it is all made
of concrete block and the next job is to get a roof on the building. It is very
large but they need it, there were 317 people in the service today! If only I
had a supply of iron sheets I would give them – these people are not waiting
for handouts – they are actively working, doing the work of the Lord and also
building infrastructure to bless the people.</span></div>
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The old church building with the new building being constructed, visible in the background. They intend to use the old building for a skills training programme in carpentry and sewing!!<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I would love to be able to pick you all up and bring you to
a church like this – it changes the way you think! Is the Bible Training
happening through Samfya worth it? There is no doubt. It has blessed this
church and their leaders are looking at the teacher training that the Bible
School will be running next year. Praise the Lord for His grace so active in
this place.</span></div>
Donald Stevensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534798292577016668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7437886310656329317.post-56612270500131456002012-09-01T19:15:00.002+12:002012-09-01T19:15:51.982+12:00DR Congo Graduate<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj48Qp_kr7Sza6etxf1cg6zRdNKe7HDV3W7iP1ixWCxuW-t-Sr6aa-6Fra_p55w_1DwKMskZMUlJ_inCHNguK0A4FPlBOefTVJ39_Ks9vqLOnflYSbQvqrmaPDqYH2oVQZuNVNIBSWEnOg/s1600/016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj48Qp_kr7Sza6etxf1cg6zRdNKe7HDV3W7iP1ixWCxuW-t-Sr6aa-6Fra_p55w_1DwKMskZMUlJ_inCHNguK0A4FPlBOefTVJ39_Ks9vqLOnflYSbQvqrmaPDqYH2oVQZuNVNIBSWEnOg/s200/016.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Talaka from Kasenga,
DR Congo<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Talaka is a graduate from 2009 and lives with his wife and family
in Kasenga, DR Congo.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is visiting
Samfya as there has been a donation from the UK sent for the church that he is
part of as they are extending the building due to significant growth with well
over 300 people attending the church. In 2010 Gwen Katie & I visited this
church and I was privileged to be part of a leadership training seminar there
with the Bible School staff and graduates and leaders from this area.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Talaka reports that his agricultural training from Samfya
Bible School has helped him incredibly. Whereas prior to training he would have
to seek extra work to keep food on the table he can now live off the produce he
grows and also has money to invest in the work in the local church, including
buying materials for children’s work. He is only able to grow food during the
rainy season because all the people around have goats and pigs and in the dry
season they are allowed to roam and they destroy gardens!! But he makes enough
in the rainy season to supply his needs for the year. He also mentioned that
the budgeting training he received at Samfya has helped him plan his finances
properly.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Talaka is not holding back his knowledge – he has been
training up people from his church to be more productive. This can only be good
as they raise the standard of living and invest more back into the work of the
Lord in these village churches. I also have been informed of another student in
Luapula who has done so well from agricultural production that his work for the
Lord has been able to expand and he has even been able to afford iron sheets
for his roof! What a blessing to see the work of the Lord increase and also the
standard of living of these dear brothers and sisters improve through very
simple education processes!</span></div>
Donald Stevensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534798292577016668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7437886310656329317.post-65325505372136354822012-09-01T01:22:00.001+12:002012-09-01T01:22:23.004+12:00Teaching, Staff and Prayers<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I am writing this at 2pm on Friday. My week of teaching is
done, however I have one catch up day next week to cover. It is certainly a
blessing every time I teach 1 & 2 Timothy to see how much application there
is to the students lives and their home churches. I have been very impressed
with the questions these people have asked – they are digging deeper and wanting
to apply the truth to their lives and church ministries. Keep praying for them
for understanding and opportunity to pass on the things they are learning.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">A gentle breeze is coming off the lake and I can hear heaps
of children enjoying swimming at the beach we cleared of weeds two years ago –
that beach is a hit with the locals!! But it is hot and I am glad I am out of
the classroom and able to wear shorts again! Perhaps I should join the kids for
a swim!</span></div>
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(this is my view accross Lake Bengweulu from the guest house as I type!!)<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Yesterday I had a very profitable time with the teaching
staff, Levy, Peter & Francis (Bible) and Aaron (agriculture). We were able
to have an open discussion about the challenges that the Bible School faces but
also the joys and plans towards the future. One of the areas that we have tried
to help the Bible School in is funding for an Administrator. We have been helping
with this now since January 2011, sending a gift of approximately NZ$275 per
month (based on our strong dollar). This has only been able to help with having
a person here part time – it has been a help, however not having an
administrator here full time slows all processes down, especially the delivery
of finances for needed areas.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">To give some perspective to this a person employed in the
secular workforce would expect to receive around $625 per month, so we are
supporting less than half what is needed to supply this need. Interestingly the
support that we give to the teachers is also at this lower level and I know
that the Bible School board has been trying to establish the means to raise their
support (Please be aware the staff did not raise this with me, but I know there
are challenges). Regarding another administrator, there is another man who
currently comes to teach on the issues of HIV/Aids who is interested in the
work here. He has the administration background as well as a degree in theology
so could help with some teaching.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We spent quite some time discussing the Bible Sponsorship
that we facilitate. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This ministry is
vitally needed. This year we have been able to supply 1678 Bibles – praise the
Lord!! More would be great! 30% of these are being sold from the Bible school
and the money raised from this is going to provide funds for the teaching staff
to go and visit graduates, do leadership training and identify further students
for the years to come. The remaining 70% are being sent to areas where
graduates are serving. These graduates will sell them at an affordable rate to
their people and the money will be used to help them in their ministry. One box
of Bibles (28 Bibles) will cover the purchase of a Bicycle for ministry, or a
tent for the frequent teaching and evangelism trips that they do. Some of this
70% will also be sold in these village areas and the money raised will provide
partial scholarships for students to come and study at Samfya.</span><br />
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</span>(Bibles being unloaded to the bookshop)<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The visit of the Bible School staff to village areas is
vital for the ongoing growth of these rural churches. The leaders in these
places need support and teaching – so the visits that the staff do are critical
to change and growth, helping people to break away from tradition (both church
and culture). Your support of buying Bibles helps this necessary work.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The departure of the missionary overseeing the building work
is a challenge. The board has identified one of its members who will be able to
take on an overseeing role in this – please pray for him – he has a background
in construction supervision, however he is getting a little older. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">An area that the staff would like you to pray for is the
support and ownership of the Bible School ministry from local churches. Their
desire is that churches would really help students to come, assist them with
their fees, help with transport. Some students come from 100’s of kilometres
away from <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>places in the Northern
Territory or the Copperbelt, DR Congo, some even from Central province. The
geographical spread is immense, but it is where Bemba is spoken. Pray that
churches will also see fit to support the Bible School directly – it is their
ministry and it benefits them greatly.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Well this is probably way to long, but I trust that it helps
you understand a little more. We are privileged to help this work. Let’s keep
prayerfully uplifting these our brothers and sisters to the Lord.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">At class this morning some ladies arrived trying to sell this catfish - it is very big. They wanted a big price K100,000 around NZ$25.00!!</span></div>
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As I write this Gabrial the maintenance man has arrived with a big bandage on his hand. He proceeded to show me in his other hand a significant part of a finger that he has chopped off on the drop saw when preparing timber. He has also badly cut his hand. Would you please pray for a quick recovery and no infection - he is a capable man and needed in the work here.
Oh for better medical facilities!
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This Sunday I am teaching at at church where three graduates fellowship. It is about 60 kms from here close to Mansa. Thank you for your prayers.Donald Stevensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534798292577016668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7437886310656329317.post-7546127734987555942012-08-29T04:05:00.002+12:002012-08-29T07:01:51.979+12:00Gospel Partners<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYBwio84NQ5i9EUUHgcIp1HDeXRCcI28Zh8AvTltyBBOqh99rmQ1WuLyCtmriMoutLOGafpwsoGmx2B_f9leRnubEg1ByL1vz56F3f_tWCLK_cV9S90QtyiNFGYwxgeBmVRWkGWX3XffE/s1600/007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYBwio84NQ5i9EUUHgcIp1HDeXRCcI28Zh8AvTltyBBOqh99rmQ1WuLyCtmriMoutLOGafpwsoGmx2B_f9leRnubEg1ByL1vz56F3f_tWCLK_cV9S90QtyiNFGYwxgeBmVRWkGWX3XffE/s200/007.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let me introduce you to
Elisha & Agnes and their family. Elisha is a man I came to know a few years ago
as one who would exchange US$ into Kwacha. He started as a poor street marketer
who was selling sugar in small plastic bags. He has gradually grown his
business and he now has too very small shops in the market place (we would hardly
call them shops). Elisha makes travelling trips to Dubai and Tanzania to
purchase for his shops and also wholesales some goods to other areas. He is a
true businessman and a fine Christian man.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">God has blessed Elisha with much materially through his
business, but this man constantly invests in eternity. He supports the Samfya
Gospel Workers Trust, a group of Christian businessmen who fund regular ministry
trips to village areas by evangelists and teachers, as well as often going on
these ministry trips himself to promote the gospel. Three mornings a week, he
and a team attend the local hospital to preach the gospel to the patients, and
they also help with food and assistance for patients, especially for transport
costs when they go home to their villages (I hope to attend one morning next week to witness this work).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">No wonder his business is blessed – he continues to give
with a grateful heart for all God’s blessings to him. I know very little of the
various ministries that he is part of but it is clearly evident that he loves Christ
and invests in eternity. Last Friday it was this man who drove me in his
vehicle from the Mambalima Conference site to Mansa (about 90 kms) so that I
could have my visa renewed. Elisha would not accept any payment for fuel even
though he was turning around and heading back. He also organised the right taxi
for my trip back to Samfya.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I find it a real privilege to work alongside men like this
that are devoted to gospel ministry. Zambia is often seen as a place that has
its hand out for money, however many brothers and sisters are doing all they
can with the resources that God has given them to bless others. That applies to
many graduates of the Bible School who exist on very little but expend themselves
for the church and the glory of God. We see at the Bible School itself the
chicken projects, broilers and layers that add significant income to the Bible
School for its ministry. These people are genuine partners in gospel ministry –
what a privilege to encourage them in their vital work and also bless them
witrh the abundance that God has given us.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUYBtELf2jbOkbzIE2s_5TbG4jrxPR5QjZ6t3deEjnwgXNCYhcOtwPYUdf-Lx-1CYecdA8jog71GgKmj9PkoqbUmc0rhVVaXj67ut_UwmfrtfHEenHmGzHcHVJxx4F6zL5sce47tpICS0/s1600/011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUYBtELf2jbOkbzIE2s_5TbG4jrxPR5QjZ6t3deEjnwgXNCYhcOtwPYUdf-Lx-1CYecdA8jog71GgKmj9PkoqbUmc0rhVVaXj67ut_UwmfrtfHEenHmGzHcHVJxx4F6zL5sce47tpICS0/s200/011.jpg" width="200" /></a>Peter & Patricia Tembo and family. Peter is an elder in the English Chapel - pray for meeting that he is organising next week with his elders for us to address issues of tradition in church and how they can make changes for the future.</div>
Donald Stevensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534798292577016668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7437886310656329317.post-13481950143267845952012-08-28T06:42:00.000+12:002012-08-28T06:50:19.287+12:00Teaching Pastoral Epistles At Samfya<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Today I began teaching the Bible School Students 1 & 2
Timothy. This will be a week long course, starting at 8am and finishing at 1pm
each day. I was very impressed by the questions that these students asked. They
are certainly thinking about the text and also of its implications on other
portions of God’s Word. The picture below is in the new classroom block. Power
is not yet connected, however the classroom is fully functional.</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn0ex-WdYfTP22KMX33aPFEyqbj0kKF-tdJaUQzNIVQkdy4M5YhFrLHd1cHvEKH47B9Dv_yirGX4gMl7y192jEVFhdyPx0JceyfcDfP2_L2e8qzWrzwaUUXsPzwXGGx8aHSrtXQNFKIIQ/s1600/005.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn0ex-WdYfTP22KMX33aPFEyqbj0kKF-tdJaUQzNIVQkdy4M5YhFrLHd1cHvEKH47B9Dv_yirGX4gMl7y192jEVFhdyPx0JceyfcDfP2_L2e8qzWrzwaUUXsPzwXGGx8aHSrtXQNFKIIQ/s200/005.jpg" width="200" /></a>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">These Pastoral Epistles cover so much material that is
essential in the village churches that these students come from: prayer in the
church, women’s role, qualification of elders, the care of widows (with
necessary application to orphans), the priority of the Word of God and teaching
the truth. I count it a huge privilege to walk through these chapters with our
brothers and sisters in Christ. It would appear to me that the training these
students are receiving has improved significantly – the staff have worked hard
to ensure they are truly equipping these people for fruitful service.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">On Sunday I taught at the English speaking Chapel here on
the Bible School site. With English becoming more and more common this church
has the potential to have significant impact in the community but there is a
real need to apply change to long standing traditions! Lucy & Elisabeth
Chama were at the service (picture below), the widow and daughter of the previous
Principal Rodgers.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJRN_zXYQwj1LsoJiH6jBL327-wsRlDh-rW-_xWlh_hla_jc7av3TPJZkQ_bITX-XRFBpqw0bWbvAsyg9lGHQ3d_8FGR7SoweunYN4tXxtqz52HsQoTUBwsUWC95HcwZWQhHVPqgaM7K0/s1600/001.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJRN_zXYQwj1LsoJiH6jBL327-wsRlDh-rW-_xWlh_hla_jc7av3TPJZkQ_bITX-XRFBpqw0bWbvAsyg9lGHQ3d_8FGR7SoweunYN4tXxtqz52HsQoTUBwsUWC95HcwZWQhHVPqgaM7K0/s200/001.jpg" width="200" /></a>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Reports back fro m the Mambalima Conference have been
incredibly positive – it seems that the clear teaching of truth is something
that the people are hungry for (I am told they had a tally of 18,543 people –
not sure how<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>they got that number but
there were huge numbers of people). Oh that we can see more and more men &
women trained for these needy rural churches. The Bible School staff indicate that
a large number of applications for next year’s course have been taken, and also
there is strong interest in the School teachers training during school holiday
periods. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">One need that I was talking to Levy Kasoma about today is
for an additional teacher as they plan to begin a second year programme next
year. There is much interest in this additional year and it would be wonderful
to see it established. There is a potential teacher who has a BTh degree, has pastored
in a CMML church for 14 years and is ready to come to Samfya and teach. He is
also keenly interested in writing Bemba resource material to get into the hands
of local churches – these are the kind of people that we need to partner with!!Maybe
your church would like to consider sponsoring this man for this growing work.
Let me know if you are interested in talking about this very cost effective supporting a national worker!!).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Well I have much more to do this week – we are working on
the figures to see how much more is needed to finish the multipurpose hall and
then looking at the potential next stages once things have consolidated. Thanks
for your prayers.</span></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTsQkoLZxahKz1GPkXE2Y1BbvQtXv25b6pyzWXCA7rLqQv4YK0q6muiUeUSEB4siwU6BbgzwitQT95fwHXaz6cNw0XcWeUEelMvE3vALHunyOCzUTWmlwGq1yGaZPAOBAiT0gXQd2cvac/s1600/011.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTsQkoLZxahKz1GPkXE2Y1BbvQtXv25b6pyzWXCA7rLqQv4YK0q6muiUeUSEB4siwU6BbgzwitQT95fwHXaz6cNw0XcWeUEelMvE3vALHunyOCzUTWmlwGq1yGaZPAOBAiT0gXQd2cvac/s200/011.JPG" width="200" /></a>
Sunday afternoon entertainment at the park just behind the Bible School - probably about 3000 spectators for this local club game
Donald Stevensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534798292577016668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7437886310656329317.post-75058172212197655872012-08-25T02:34:00.000+12:002012-08-25T03:04:58.399+12:00More Photos from Conference<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH9O0KkJZsn7PVIPFgiJDOB7EXTTegBBjvAKsoscdxzJP-XOX3mCXm_vyTiVYeSnDKzAtcogeiqh9LdO-nkszNCdzSFtSi66EQbRQ2RpPUMxOqt702POhzHGhSYmr6cMZLkMmjXk6m7-I/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH9O0KkJZsn7PVIPFgiJDOB7EXTTegBBjvAKsoscdxzJP-XOX3mCXm_vyTiVYeSnDKzAtcogeiqh9LdO-nkszNCdzSFtSi66EQbRQ2RpPUMxOqt702POhzHGhSYmr6cMZLkMmjXk6m7-I/s200/002.JPG" width="200" /></a>
I have arrived back at Samfya after having my visa renewed at Mansa Immigration. Here are some Photos of the conference:
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs4LHp7_vrZN_E36fLGjdckcv0DAkurXgX2-IfQN_6_ZohioMI7E_fsLBk9m2IiG8kOsAaIbj7_6YxeOXFga62tv1VitqZv5E6eB_lNwFwKvJWyCcVU6qsGKl6OioEjCum9DezzQ1d4XA/s1600/005.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs4LHp7_vrZN_E36fLGjdckcv0DAkurXgX2-IfQN_6_ZohioMI7E_fsLBk9m2IiG8kOsAaIbj7_6YxeOXFga62tv1VitqZv5E6eB_lNwFwKvJWyCcVU6qsGKl6OioEjCum9DezzQ1d4XA/s200/005.jpg" width="200" /></a>
One of the choirs singing in front of the rock - the pulpit is under this rock and you can see our team when we passed through here about two weeks ago.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxRKZqAhLRdlEbHHfV86kjWKlGzKlDmVVKFRWXseiyXXIhWJ3ucNFw9Dat88j3bv_7GUAa5ErsTwkuOxH6ExPNJw9-JdbBuoX1JVGRGtJ2kOCGZKjUU2IQag6TfCtpWsW3nLhVMY8YccE/s1600/011.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxRKZqAhLRdlEbHHfV86kjWKlGzKlDmVVKFRWXseiyXXIhWJ3ucNFw9Dat88j3bv_7GUAa5ErsTwkuOxH6ExPNJw9-JdbBuoX1JVGRGtJ2kOCGZKjUU2IQag6TfCtpWsW3nLhVMY8YccE/s200/011.jpg" width="200" /></a>
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The children singing as they walk up the dusty road after Sunday School lessons<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Ygh_0DMPclIKk2ElOr7TTYGV0cw88fspRYnLmJeSOuZRBU4wvtxyxyJ4KcxSYuGNB-sx7FYwvgPGxpx9cJCLOQLTJWa2HnoaTobxVdNc6ylk2_2vc0NQkLrDpLa8BIDkg7Y3YLHsSms/s1600/013.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Ygh_0DMPclIKk2ElOr7TTYGV0cw88fspRYnLmJeSOuZRBU4wvtxyxyJ4KcxSYuGNB-sx7FYwvgPGxpx9cJCLOQLTJWa2HnoaTobxVdNc6ylk2_2vc0NQkLrDpLa8BIDkg7Y3YLHsSms/s200/013.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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School Teachers gathered to hear about the new training programme for them in their school holidays <br />
beginning April 2013
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh48qD_LH4gxDFTZICdww_LFaIeFaMB70NkDRSgNpo4iVurNSpfiyq0QND0PNbEYOi5BM7vDyXX2e3QpovWXeaXe80zazx5iwMqNstoqPIV3db5wWzEnUUPJF7v2zq8UMmLWpzYoSIoQjU/s1600/017.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh48qD_LH4gxDFTZICdww_LFaIeFaMB70NkDRSgNpo4iVurNSpfiyq0QND0PNbEYOi5BM7vDyXX2e3QpovWXeaXe80zazx5iwMqNstoqPIV3db5wWzEnUUPJF7v2zq8UMmLWpzYoSIoQjU/s200/017.jpg" width="200" /></a>
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The road that leads down to the conference has a lot of street vendors selling goods<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZg7WKlKu7S0iJX9mDk3eQAUdWgr1IXZe-KKe98ExuB94eOaM8yUqtlqB8tYBpZDCJuXDNe251zGruFpSDki5RdHIFp1ZzSpuzUGzRGHjgYnLj1C9X5_NOZP1xOJ6ljxhc8OPoJR4HLVs/s1600/021.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZg7WKlKu7S0iJX9mDk3eQAUdWgr1IXZe-KKe98ExuB94eOaM8yUqtlqB8tYBpZDCJuXDNe251zGruFpSDki5RdHIFp1ZzSpuzUGzRGHjgYnLj1C9X5_NOZP1xOJ6ljxhc8OPoJR4HLVs/s200/021.jpg" width="200" /></a>
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These rapids are called Mambalima Falls and are 5 minutes walk from the conference site. I swam a couple of times in an eddy off to the side to cool off in the afternoon heat getting close to 40 degrees!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYFiMwvY5-FJ4uWbSI5K1H4Yktbjc6vbv79ORirgtpd5BaVZ5MEdWfJXE5WpeZtrfJvNvRBubVgogrWHozMnjRs0ST0enFVcG-HbQWuVvxFOUQgt0d_V1o2q58DN1Dgyf1NCpsFXqJu7I/s1600/034.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYFiMwvY5-FJ4uWbSI5K1H4Yktbjc6vbv79ORirgtpd5BaVZ5MEdWfJXE5WpeZtrfJvNvRBubVgogrWHozMnjRs0ST0enFVcG-HbQWuVvxFOUQgt0d_V1o2q58DN1Dgyf1NCpsFXqJu7I/s200/034.jpg" width="200" /></a>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTCJuHtWwbycMdvxuOWg2dl11DcBsZL4lIc_POHfOLQJ9h4qwCjI41kkQkLRLchC0hyphenhyphenC5Mh4splwAcyJLW2I1DfV7DVxfP4eRww26X0bD-fMn3MnZiTcV0a7tByZOb3nvztGaxh7NbtvY/s1600/038.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTCJuHtWwbycMdvxuOWg2dl11DcBsZL4lIc_POHfOLQJ9h4qwCjI41kkQkLRLchC0hyphenhyphenC5Mh4splwAcyJLW2I1DfV7DVxfP4eRww26X0bD-fMn3MnZiTcV0a7tByZOb3nvztGaxh7NbtvY/s200/038.jpg" width="200" /></a>
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This area had heaps of cooking, although this was happening everywhere you went. This lady really wanted her photo taken!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcERbnJRoaQlnmHb2-yF5HQcuJEm4FWqDbE1mOXzVuWPLz_XhmyXzh_0pwhQOkGmhJt3xXZcHCfcI9inLErqfmasIj41Vktr-AhxAzgHm80dUnk6iH3_S6Vv__AweMC6pSIbiLDjuJImg/s1600/030.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcERbnJRoaQlnmHb2-yF5HQcuJEm4FWqDbE1mOXzVuWPLz_XhmyXzh_0pwhQOkGmhJt3xXZcHCfcI9inLErqfmasIj41Vktr-AhxAzgHm80dUnk6iH3_S6Vv__AweMC6pSIbiLDjuJImg/s200/030.jpg" width="200" /></a>
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view down the river towards the Conference site<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp1PgmxyO7gFrHkm5M_J1kDgDz15VZjxT5ibiCJEewsSSqjmnA2XDGmiN3_sMe51e0s4TKzR1UsydVWy5qcxvaVO0MF4FbHqfIaCYsh8nJZdX3hUW8WGfqctvTWoVxUaTwiNojBkV5CC0/s1600/002.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp1PgmxyO7gFrHkm5M_J1kDgDz15VZjxT5ibiCJEewsSSqjmnA2XDGmiN3_sMe51e0s4TKzR1UsydVWy5qcxvaVO0MF4FbHqfIaCYsh8nJZdX3hUW8WGfqctvTWoVxUaTwiNojBkV5CC0/s200/002.jpg" width="200" /></a>
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Levy - Sometimes the day is just too hot and long!!Donald Stevensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534798292577016668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7437886310656329317.post-69259216298997369222012-08-24T08:09:00.001+12:002012-08-24T08:31:19.666+12:00Hungry Hearts – Feed Them The Word!Well this afternoon was elective time and I was expected to give time for interaction and feedback. We tried that for the first 10 minutes, however with a couple of thousand or more people in an elective that is fairly hard. We ditched that plan and I taught on the role of an elder – what should an elder do? I was blown away by the response and desire from these people to hear God’s Word. Notebooks were out, people were constantly writing. They were devouring the Word of God and its explanation – they are hungry to hear truth explained and as I talked with the Bible School staff later we reflected on the lack of depth that happens in the teaching in many churches here.
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Praise God for his work in these dear saints. We have been able to leave each church represented at the conference with two translated copy of John MacArthur's small booklet on Elders. The Bible School staff translated this resource as it covers so many necessary areas for these rural churches to grapple with and will reinforce the teaching from today's session.
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After this meeting it was a joy to see many school teachers come and visit with the Bible School staff as they promoted the new training initiative for teachers in their holiday breaks starting in 2013. These people were keenly interested in taking in teaching that will equip them for further ministry in their local churches. Pray that this new initiative will really impact lives! At the same time a troop of kids came singing up the track having just had a Sunday School sessions.<br />
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I wish I could convey all the sights and smells and experiences of being in this huge throng of humanity (they report 18,000 people - maybe a little inflated but it is packed). It is alive with joy in Christ. There are more challenges than you could imagine with various ministries desiring help. Life in Christ is such a blessing and these people are rejoicing in this life and also desiring to learn so much more. What a privilege to see Samfya Bible School play such a significant role in the teaching and focus of this event. Please pray that even more students will be identified for the coming years so that the church here will be strengthened and grow.<br />
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Tomorrow I head to Mansa to have my visa extended and then I head home to Samfya. Next week I will teach the Bible School students through 1 & 2 Timothy. As always your prayers are valued, and thank you for the regular feedback coming through.
Donald Stevensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534798292577016668noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7437886310656329317.post-42534088790604288172012-08-23T20:06:00.001+12:002012-08-23T20:09:01.714+12:00Bibles and Vision<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEighr0kWWfnKWhm3IN9OJn7pcMcDksVZTFYJHk2ZPwZ3zM_W8eNy8_lbsUdJOzDK4onMKXyrf88qKYTJqXrPsKRcb-aukN5kGCwtY3VKglCPmQrZm0aotVvcPIspJyLF5tInwUyZUGV32g/s1600/012.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEighr0kWWfnKWhm3IN9OJn7pcMcDksVZTFYJHk2ZPwZ3zM_W8eNy8_lbsUdJOzDK4onMKXyrf88qKYTJqXrPsKRcb-aukN5kGCwtY3VKglCPmQrZm0aotVvcPIspJyLF5tInwUyZUGV32g/s200/012.jpg" width="200" /></a>
Please meet Kafusha Kanyemba a graduate of Samfya Bible School working in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Kafusha has been attending conference but today makes his way back to the border, across the Luapula River and home. He is taking three boxes of Bibles (84 Bibles) and these Bibles will be sold at affordable rates to the village Christians in the Congo and the funds raised are going to provide three sponsorships for students to Samfya that have been identified by two churches there. What a blessing Bibles are – meeting the needs of Christians but also supporting ministry.
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If you look at Kafusha’s bicycle you will see that it is just about worn out. These graduates are very active in ministering to churches and bicycles make them so much more efficient in the use of their time. Sponsorships for Bicycles would be a real blessing costing around NZ$130 each.<br />
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Since arriving at the Conference Levy and the Bible School staff have been burdened to design a course for School Teachers. Many of these people are placed in village areas and they have good English and can have a significant effect on the ministry of local churches. The staff are planning a Certificate in Biblical Studies that will be available to these teachers in their holiday break times. Here is what the course will cover:<br />
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• Theology Survey - Theology Proper, Bibliology, Anthropology, Soteriology
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• Bible Interpretation
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• Expository Preaching
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• Biblical leadership
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• Biblical Counselling
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There is likely to be electives of women’s Ministry and Sunday School ministry to cater for the many lady teachers that are also in these rural schools. Zambia has a very large school system right through rural places and teachers are often placed in these rural areas for a number of years. This vision of inputting into these teachers lives and seeing them strengthen local churches is very strategic. I am excited that we can partner with people who are thinking mission and strengthening local churches. Praise God for these faithful people.
Donald Stevensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534798292577016668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7437886310656329317.post-70550719388527138342012-08-22T20:51:00.002+12:002012-08-22T20:51:29.488+12:00Answered Prayers<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Your prayers certainly sustained and blessed the people as
we studied Acts 11:19-30. The people’s response has been overwhelming – they just
love having truth proclaimed and seem to have an earnest desire to live in
accordance with God’s Word. It seems that there are thousands more people here
today, they continued to pour in from all around Bemba speaking Zambia and even
some from DR Congo.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Currently a teacher from Kashikishi Bible School is teaching
on evangelism and that call of the church to reach the lost. He constantly
refers to my message – so it is good to see that the foundation that the Samfya
Bible School staff desired has been set and is giving these men support in
their ministry. Keep praying friends. I have various personal meetings today
and teach a leadership workshop tomorrow.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeH4XLviZkr-ZJZTbJF-nAEpwjIaoAjoOYxsniwP3uu80LCSlOKIGtJ4WMdiPXyo3KiQm0gRxd4OBBz123KiMF86LzCEY02AV6lMRk0i2BloacU3OxUT-qRbAjhJBdWC9aE3tW7r3Z46I/s1600/002.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeH4XLviZkr-ZJZTbJF-nAEpwjIaoAjoOYxsniwP3uu80LCSlOKIGtJ4WMdiPXyo3KiQm0gRxd4OBBz123KiMF86LzCEY02AV6lMRk0i2BloacU3OxUT-qRbAjhJBdWC9aE3tW7r3Z46I/s200/002.jpg" width="200" /></a>
The Bible School book table. We are selling bibles at an affordable rate to the people (not cost price). The new shipment just arrived in time and the people so desire to get a copy of the scriptures. Donald Stevensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534798292577016668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7437886310656329317.post-74074574120667161212012-08-22T08:09:00.000+12:002012-08-22T08:19:56.089+12:00Teaching On Leaders Roles in Church MinistryWell today was a long one – 8am-8pm at the conference site which is hot, dusty and full of people. The children gather around just to gaze at this strange looking man – it feels like you are the main attraction in a zoo!
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Well today I led the opening teaching sessions of the conference addressing leaders and how they are to guide the church in its ministry. We focused on the four major themes of Acts 2:42 and we focused for some time on the Apostles doctrine with a close look at Paul’s admonitions in 2 Timothy.<br />
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The response has been very affirming – the desire was to lay a foundation for the other speakers during the week. We also had a number of personal interactions with church leaders seeking advice and counsel and help.
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Tomorrow I will teach from Acts 11:19-30 on the Characteristics of The Spreading Church. Your prayers are valued! I am keeping well and rejoicing in the fellowship of the Bible School Staff who are looking after me very well!
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all four of these are the view from the pulpit at conference<br />
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Me under the big rock where the pulpit stands waiting to teach
Donald Stevensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534798292577016668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7437886310656329317.post-56792235479532149742012-08-21T07:33:00.001+12:002012-08-21T07:35:44.016+12:00Photos From Conference Site<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUnGy8Gh8RP_Ebnjx3OD19s4jgskPEK_0xa8obqf3TaD125doTXg50bsI072PcO6WX0tXK3tnCLBVbVEFDrNxIiYg9xiu49AAxhIxyaV8iUz_QWeFJUuRQQkE-oZjEpUYJqwGifAba5VA/s1600/006.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUnGy8Gh8RP_Ebnjx3OD19s4jgskPEK_0xa8obqf3TaD125doTXg50bsI072PcO6WX0tXK3tnCLBVbVEFDrNxIiYg9xiu49AAxhIxyaV8iUz_QWeFJUuRQQkE-oZjEpUYJqwGifAba5VA/s200/006.jpg" width="200" /></a>
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Camping out under the stars<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Dz-c9Er2wC8mLuKZ21CrgaNXG2CyojA8RxNG1hahJMRu0ZjFJL5Y2-mSnMVsgmuwttFnURajRS2daIJzpllFLy2ZejCq9OdfZVAYVsAntxDyHOlcMGpZQ4LkWk5rNWIAse6mCGSKZp0/s1600/008.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Dz-c9Er2wC8mLuKZ21CrgaNXG2CyojA8RxNG1hahJMRu0ZjFJL5Y2-mSnMVsgmuwttFnURajRS2daIJzpllFLy2ZejCq9OdfZVAYVsAntxDyHOlcMGpZQ4LkWk5rNWIAse6mCGSKZp0/s200/008.jpg" width="200" /></a>
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More camp sites<br />
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Cooking time!<br />
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Ready for meetings<br />
Donald Stevensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534798292577016668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7437886310656329317.post-78714023767935206422012-08-20T23:03:00.003+12:002012-08-20T23:05:38.581+12:00Helping at the Bible School Book Stand<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I am sitting and helping at the Bible School book stand at
the conference. A continual flow of trucks arrive with choirs singing and
people offloading. The place is beginning to fill up and the heat is building.
I am looking out across the beautiful Luapula River and the D.R. Congo is
within swimming distance. Already the programme has changed again (2nd time) and my opening
sessions have been put off to Tuesday morning, but we have also added elders
workshops on Wednesday.</span><br />
<br /><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I am sitting with Peter Chomba one of the teaching staff and
he is talking about the book that he is currently writing on Biblical
Counselling. He is the teacher that we sponsored for training in South Africa
with Dr Mack and Dr Joel James. The book will be written in Bemba and directed
to the village church leaders. Peter is also desiring to write a book on
Expository Preaching once the counselling one is complete.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">This is very exciting news! Good Bemba resources are few and
these two particular areas are of great need to be taught and applied in the
churches. Of course the challenge will be coming up with the necessary capital
to see the printing and supply of these resources as reasonable rates. What an
incredible blessing however to partner with these precious saints as they work
to see the local church grow and deepen in Biblical Truth.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I will update the blog later this evening with some photos
of the conference site for your interest – it is very humbling to see the circumstances
here and an encouragement to here the praise of God on the lips of these
saints.</span>Donald Stevensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534798292577016668noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7437886310656329317.post-82789541792315828912012-08-20T07:45:00.001+12:002012-08-20T07:45:32.062+12:00In MambilimaGreetings all I am in Mambalima with the Bible School staff. The conference starts tomorrow, however the programme has already changed and we start after Lunch now, not in the morning. I do value your prayers for this week and that my teaching would open God's truth to our brothers and sisters and be motivation for further change in the way leaders are leading in their churches. <br />
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Already hundreds of people have arrived. We are staying a few kilometres up the road at a Mission where there is a hospital and disabled school. We are staying in one of the dorms for the school. I will post information as the week unfolds, but the pictures below are of my room for the week and then one of the Luapula River right where the conference is being held. The river will be the bath and dishes washing place for the expected thousands
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Donald Stevensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534798292577016668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7437886310656329317.post-79033701612668691102012-08-18T21:24:00.002+12:002012-08-18T21:24:50.067+12:00The Journey North<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hi all – what an interesting day. I was on buses for 18
hours and I had so many opportunities to share the gospel with people and also
talk to others about their faith. The people here are so open to talk about
spiritual issues.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">One very funny thing happened as we approached a weigh
bridge. New regulations have been applied and there is absolute bedlam as every
truck and bus is weighed to try and ensure weights are legal. Well before we
got to the weigh bridge we stopped and off loaded a large number of people and
put them in a minivan. They were taken and dropped on the road side well past
the weigh bridge. We then proceeded to be weighed and we failed. So more people
were taken off and walked a short distance out of the way and then we went
around again. Still too heavy!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Well I am not sure what happened then but it took ages.
Maybe a fine was paid or a bribe, I don’t know, but after more than two hours
we were away again. We picked up our two sets of offloaded passengers and the
driver put his foot down. Despite losing all that time we arrived in Samfya on
schedule because we flew along! This bus is used as a cargo carrier for small
business people who buy supplies in Lusaka – it is a double decker, very high
with huge luggage compartments underneath and they load it to the max!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It is very windy here at Samfya today coming directly off
the lake, but nice and warm. The swamp flies have hatched (every month) so
tonight it will be doors closed and lights to a minimum so I don’t get overrun
by bugs!</span></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV7fvqGC8ZwvRGkC7lCtjgzPFaflfSgaUSoVeyNwwgTw1MiTHKioImjzog0ww_W07gV-BEyG5bnjkXXCX8czO1PoZsV0FPKYNy6kIEk6Y7ilFNtrPSJZq97IyBQUFddV32SasmCcVJQ_E/s1600/048.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV7fvqGC8ZwvRGkC7lCtjgzPFaflfSgaUSoVeyNwwgTw1MiTHKioImjzog0ww_W07gV-BEyG5bnjkXXCX8czO1PoZsV0FPKYNy6kIEk6Y7ilFNtrPSJZq97IyBQUFddV32SasmCcVJQ_E/s200/048.JPG" width="200" /></a>
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The Team in Botswana waiting for a game drive<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMVnYDBq4DHK0btDCCXQYqMvwnNyOhdZoXKDinMZ8d7h9kczARrwKNVa2pSEfXRFtght15pLxREupVIyxRYKyYuoH9rP6F7FQmrVTnHRmQOOjmpcSVOnic9r9qhnR13WD5pu6KHqj-0fI/s1600/090.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMVnYDBq4DHK0btDCCXQYqMvwnNyOhdZoXKDinMZ8d7h9kczARrwKNVa2pSEfXRFtght15pLxREupVIyxRYKyYuoH9rP6F7FQmrVTnHRmQOOjmpcSVOnic9r9qhnR13WD5pu6KHqj-0fI/s200/090.JPG" width="200" /></a>
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King of the beasts having a lazy reat in the heat of the day
Donald Stevensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534798292577016668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7437886310656329317.post-51190022678478609142012-08-17T20:51:00.001+12:002012-08-17T20:52:33.225+12:00God's Majestic Creation<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7PdR3SPS_TPWARRq7SiZGz8Ow7ISOdWgK9iHws08Et1TCuIilrWEH90d9lJ5A7wdRSwCkPY7tdSMNpMlCviBQCuvU2lwOb3XhLMyvkfZIL54WviD7DZVghvCnV6ZmaXOJ29T7LHFCvfI/s1600/008.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7PdR3SPS_TPWARRq7SiZGz8Ow7ISOdWgK9iHws08Et1TCuIilrWEH90d9lJ5A7wdRSwCkPY7tdSMNpMlCviBQCuvU2lwOb3XhLMyvkfZIL54WviD7DZVghvCnV6ZmaXOJ29T7LHFCvfI/s200/008.JPG" width="200" /></a>
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The majesty of Victoria Falls<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiieOUguqEDhbRYG2Z2GYx48IGQzYQBxSVlXEMHwZaOvVGWDc2F99-_KOe3dPMoERtVp3KjA3OLgG4-hImcFF-KUPpzAmtTj5r2LQu6923voDGX2rXh3OruApGX1Ke5C9hKyW3GRDv7ZkI/s1600/027.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiieOUguqEDhbRYG2Z2GYx48IGQzYQBxSVlXEMHwZaOvVGWDc2F99-_KOe3dPMoERtVp3KjA3OLgG4-hImcFF-KUPpzAmtTj5r2LQu6923voDGX2rXh3OruApGX1Ke5C9hKyW3GRDv7ZkI/s200/027.JPG" width="200" /></a>
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African Wild Dogs - a rare sight as opposed to vilage dogs that are everywhere!!Donald Stevensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534798292577016668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7437886310656329317.post-34685697853884883632012-08-17T20:44:00.001+12:002012-08-17T20:44:32.288+12:00The Next Stage
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">As I write I am on the bus north heading to Lusaka and then
Samfya – about 15 hours of buses rides in one day. The team is at Livingstone
International Airport ready to get home – Daniel a bit sore after meeting a
rock while white water rafting!! Last night we were able to reflect on our time
together and the challenges and joys of the things we have been exposed to. We
have all been blessed by the hospitality and devotion of our brother s and
sisters in Christ from village areas. We also rejoiced in the good work<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>that was evident among the many graduates –
the ministry of the Bible School is making real differences in village life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It is a difficult dynamic being tourists in a place like
Livingstone after all we have seen in the North, however we have been reminded
of the incredible wisdom and creativity of our God as we witnessed Victoria
Falls and enjoyed the diversity of wildlife that our God has created. He has
given us all things to enjoy as 1 Timothy tells us, but we must never place our
hope in the riches that he blesses us with, but rather on Him and being wise
stewards of all that He has given . For me that is why the investment of time
and money and energy in Samfya Bible School is such a blessing – it impacts thousands
and thousands for Christ.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I should arrive back at Samfya at around 2am on Saturday
morning, sleep for a while and then head away after Lunch for a week long
conference at Mambalima. The Bible School staff have been vitally involved in
the committee organising the conference, and their focus is on what the local
church should be and do. I start off the conference with two sessions on
leadership and how leaders are to function and what they should be desiring for
the church. The rest of the sessions then build on this over the whole week and
we will be there to interact with people and leaders and help them in their
role in church life. We also trust to make contact with many potential students
so that next year there could be an intake of up to 30 soaking in God’s truth.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Once back at Samfya I am to teach the students and also spend
much time with the staff in planning and looking towards the future. I hope to
work through with the staff some of the chapters in Jerry Wragg’s book on
leadership. Would you please pray for these weeks ahead that much will be
achieved for the Kingdom and that as further plans are established that we
would find more partners to help this ministry expand.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It is a challenging thing to know that for many of the village
churches that span through hundreds of kilometres, the only source of
encouragement they receive from outside of their region is from the Bible
School – often the only supply of Bibles and help for their work. Friends let’s
store up treasure in heaven by investing in this humble but growing work – your
support makes a real difference!</span></div>
Donald Stevensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534798292577016668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7437886310656329317.post-68061649179994970882012-08-13T06:48:00.001+12:002012-08-13T06:48:44.339+12:00Camp Conference with 1750 Others at Mwewa<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Wow what a weekend. With 1750 others we camped in tents they
were out under the stars! You have never seem so many children and young people
and families – all gathered from about 23 churches and coming to share in a conference
titled “Stepping Into Eternity.” During the Sunday School we estimated there
were around 200 children, and then the young people in the late afternoon would
come in singing and dancing in joy before the Lord.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It was humbling to be with these people – they have so
little and yet their love for the Lord is so evident and their friendliness
fantastic. We were able to meet with 5 graduates of the Bible School that come
from this area. They are very active in the local church and also have work
happening in about 5 church plants. They co-operate together in these plants,
doing evangelism door to door and in the market places. They are the people that
are motivating much ministry through the church network – youth, children’s, teaching...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The challenges these people have are common to most
graduates. The need for literature is extreme. We have only just received the
Bibles at Samfya while we were away at the conference, but there is the need
for more resources in discipleship, bible studies – but in the Bemba language. All
of them have transport issues, with needs for bicycles or spare parts to keep bicycles
going – not having effective transport makes life so much more difficult as
they have to walk significant distances to minister to the churches around
them. One graduate has a wooden leg and he walks 6 kilometres to the church
plant every Sunday! Bibles are always in need – one church plant of 65 people
has 8 Bibles and another of 25 people has 4 Bibles.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It is good that we have received the Bibles supply and boxes
will be sent to this region. They have identified 3 students for next year and
the small amount of money that these are sold for will go towards a scholarship
to help these students attend the Bible School.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It is a sobering thing to share with these people when we
know how much is available to us in our own church and also how much is there
in the English language. The need to translate material is significant, but
that takes time and money and planning. Oh that there might be even more partners
that would get behind the vital ministry of the Bibles School – its impact is
right across the Bemba speaking area of Zambia and even into the Democratic
Republic of Congo. The graduates are doing wonderful work with their very
limited resources. Praise God for their faithfulness to the calling they have
in gospel ministry.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">A new area of ministry is also being identified by the Bible
School staff. There are many Christian teachers in these rural areas. They usually
have reasonable English and are significant helpers in local church work. The
staff here are thinking through possible training to these teachers during
their holiday breaks, equipping hem further for the work in local churches.
There will also be a follow up to this area for Sunday School Leadership training
– with 50% of the population being under 15 years of age, the needs to teach
these children about Christ are huge – and they are always so very receptive.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Well please keep praying for this work – we will give
further reports on this time in the days ahead. Tomorrow at 5am we drive to
Lusaka – a long day but we are rejoicing in all we have seen!</span></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIgLBVSTr08ms-NUidNGA0t_mbo8FrvBzdKLp_HpF7lZAhkREgumKbOPodCCtCKkgyqSXyyA7flExHXQms7UdndqZLmNS-mGODflolz17fAZtCqnx_C0RXcQkH5_A4cQXldCfMJhV_MQY/s1600/012.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIgLBVSTr08ms-NUidNGA0t_mbo8FrvBzdKLp_HpF7lZAhkREgumKbOPodCCtCKkgyqSXyyA7flExHXQms7UdndqZLmNS-mGODflolz17fAZtCqnx_C0RXcQkH5_A4cQXldCfMJhV_MQY/s200/012.JPG" width="200" /></a>
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People everywhere!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO8qGcACyjSUnBYr27Vot1sPYDIRQBkV7RNqFTx0Q9I0TvLs6rb3b5uH36XS9-4_Q4f78f5u8UQMZ82C5yAbxdOtXJI3LKoMbQbOqGk_vZdyXvQa4YPXDVPwUxjpFYS8JO4-KUj7LEdQc/s1600/013.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO8qGcACyjSUnBYr27Vot1sPYDIRQBkV7RNqFTx0Q9I0TvLs6rb3b5uH36XS9-4_Q4f78f5u8UQMZ82C5yAbxdOtXJI3LKoMbQbOqGk_vZdyXvQa4YPXDVPwUxjpFYS8JO4-KUj7LEdQc/s200/013.JPG" width="200" /></a>
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Anyone for Nshima??<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJL_5zE2UOSy_1cAM_KrIIt_BcnjRsOstoRnrnpTVVRguaH9NtM-C-tjyKApLbPwBVIrY7Ip1ZbBBP7SBx5U-5Lcqu7hmvP6oW7btwTjCkuu00tywV50WJE4fK0vn_C9YH3JsMkCSHF9U/s1600/026.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJL_5zE2UOSy_1cAM_KrIIt_BcnjRsOstoRnrnpTVVRguaH9NtM-C-tjyKApLbPwBVIrY7Ip1ZbBBP7SBx5U-5Lcqu7hmvP6oW7btwTjCkuu00tywV50WJE4fK0vn_C9YH3JsMkCSHF9U/s200/026.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
Sunday School on Saturday!!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgycNhBkGZkFbr8JdjXQsJf4OMw4FxhBzGUWBzntxWCKQ1kLxTxTq81jvG7xWvpXmxaatLxKF8q0y46zWiSfHpL4u1qBdi_CqxVqMIL9zQ5xKd7cBsTm8_u0XRV1R47M6jZWihD0GOl1LA/s1600/033.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgycNhBkGZkFbr8JdjXQsJf4OMw4FxhBzGUWBzntxWCKQ1kLxTxTq81jvG7xWvpXmxaatLxKF8q0y46zWiSfHpL4u1qBdi_CqxVqMIL9zQ5xKd7cBsTm8_u0XRV1R47M6jZWihD0GOl1LA/s200/033.JPG" width="200" /></a>
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Counting the sticks - one per person attending = 1750!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhISo-PG0gzq0SR7ukkacVXGNRX7cSZubiKcRO8NpU7xJerMDTIrZ45uQOmEb7FdaB5x5JNoOjH21KidfeDNIisgfuNyuo1yn91mhTccqqgPbvIrDB6_Ooa0k5I3zvfIYizqKMzS7G0quk/s1600/029.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhISo-PG0gzq0SR7ukkacVXGNRX7cSZubiKcRO8NpU7xJerMDTIrZ45uQOmEb7FdaB5x5JNoOjH21KidfeDNIisgfuNyuo1yn91mhTccqqgPbvIrDB6_Ooa0k5I3zvfIYizqKMzS7G0quk/s200/029.JPG" width="112" /></a><br />
Five graduates working in the Mwewa area<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYonMWNAwBScH4PTyEB3f2WWV4l-6z0u-kwnO4KewylkE5WGF4kNO6oBlUXJiSCwT_OvYjaDPOACKIqT2__skSgCCyb_LJtPCVaEMgdkZcvCWpdlfXdqG0sQ300Tz4FIswAorAb-B-1Y4/s1600/024.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYonMWNAwBScH4PTyEB3f2WWV4l-6z0u-kwnO4KewylkE5WGF4kNO6oBlUXJiSCwT_OvYjaDPOACKIqT2__skSgCCyb_LJtPCVaEMgdkZcvCWpdlfXdqG0sQ300Tz4FIswAorAb-B-1Y4/s200/024.JPG" width="200" /></a>
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Meetings in progress<br />Donald Stevensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534798292577016668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7437886310656329317.post-86220091369982883042012-08-10T21:28:00.000+12:002012-08-10T21:29:10.724+12:00Men at Work<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha0q1fR4WjwpD5MCD9_Qh0Ei_Ud8JWE5NiA5FIg2MRQCzEKHu8IUDezk3AsEEhHetX62Kl4kp5NfubfaeRRpgbtdYlDVY0RAChAhmmEhopuYJowtQh7AF-aeKKkbnhEuFLqdw4exQsAtk/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha0q1fR4WjwpD5MCD9_Qh0Ei_Ud8JWE5NiA5FIg2MRQCzEKHu8IUDezk3AsEEhHetX62Kl4kp5NfubfaeRRpgbtdYlDVY0RAChAhmmEhopuYJowtQh7AF-aeKKkbnhEuFLqdw4exQsAtk/s200/009.JPG" width="200" /></a>
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Ray & Colin refurbishing Blackboards for the new classroom<br />
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<img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5c6l-WU63JEPQ0Em8SAF7qa-pGYrJm70lSsxlf9CkFrnMsSoD7VBAz8LKEI_he3J4Jx-jdnYiu79-CctMld32TKCRT3vWxoS5HdC9oikh_dCZaHosxeu50C_LWPSWI2ckys4dJlO0zT8/s200/010.JPG" width="200" />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBCe_f0Fmw9gcBTQeGlSuVVh_yYrFQRIKjo-Wsbjh_j03ol253_qXDBOI3UJjG9Rh1R9kYt5h2R4nh2X9kZJ7ZrYDgmjMan35vdpRM7M9eyR5k-exVBPTpwwwhZ9rap0DkqRljyguTktI/s1600/011.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBCe_f0Fmw9gcBTQeGlSuVVh_yYrFQRIKjo-Wsbjh_j03ol253_qXDBOI3UJjG9Rh1R9kYt5h2R4nh2X9kZJ7ZrYDgmjMan35vdpRM7M9eyR5k-exVBPTpwwwhZ9rap0DkqRljyguTktI/s200/011.JPG" width="112" /></a>
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Roger cutting panels for under the eaves<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7vxXGr8UN9XCSNWRFYBdB1o0AfQ5n702seKSzKk8vAuHQ6uTegzEJB47QD9L6RgGm-ABPLFhvi4twhRL0lyNQv9kHwpfv_ij2QJRvS8PT4mrbQkRtDf81U8lKbhOQYxinPkOHLnrkyM4/s1600/013.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7vxXGr8UN9XCSNWRFYBdB1o0AfQ5n702seKSzKk8vAuHQ6uTegzEJB47QD9L6RgGm-ABPLFhvi4twhRL0lyNQv9kHwpfv_ij2QJRvS8PT4mrbQkRtDf81U8lKbhOQYxinPkOHLnrkyM4/s200/013.JPG" width="200" /></a>
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Daniel with Peter getting door frames ready to install<br />
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The team leaves shortly for a conference in Mwewa, approximately 90kms from Samfya. Thank you for your prayers.<br />
<br />Donald Stevensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534798292577016668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7437886310656329317.post-43350063274920901412012-08-09T00:07:00.001+12:002012-08-09T00:09:26.829+12:00Midweek and Power Problems!Greetings all. The work on the Multi-Purpose Hall continues with the roof all on over the toilet block, the fiddly woodwork under the eaves progressing well and a concrete pour just about ready for the veranda. Please pray for continued safety on the work site.
Power continues to be a major problem here with the voltage only ever getting close to full capacity in the early hours of the morning. Often there are power cuts completely and always from around 6pm-9pm the lights only just glow! It makes productivity very difficult indeed and things like meals are always a logistical problem to cook! The whole power issue is a significant challenge to effectively using evenings and the people here laugh to think that much work happens at night in pastoral ministry and care!<br />
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This weekend we are heading to a conference about two hours drive from Samfya where they have been inspired by our 2011 Impact Conference to teach on Stepping Into Eternity. We leave Friday afternoon and will return on Sunday afternoon/evening. Then on Monday the team begins the homeward journey via Livingstone (two days travel) with time to see Victoria Falls.<br />
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Donald returns to Samfya on Friday 17th and then on Sunday travels to the Mambilima Conference with the Bible School staff who have had a significant role in organising this year’s programme. It will focus on the life and ministry of the local church. With well over 10,000 attending and camping out in very basic conditions it is an amazing place but they come to be taught and also to hear the wonderful choirs from the churches attending.<br />
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Donald will teach the opening two sessions on the role of Leaders to advance and promote the ministry of the church which will feed into the later sessions during the week long conference that are encouraging various aspects of church life. The need to see leaders equipped and prepared to lead in their churches is significant, so please pray that this conference will be used of the Lord to strengthen the church and also that potential students will be identified for the 2013 student intake.
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The Team passed through the Mambalima Conference site on the way to Kawambwa last weekend.Donald Stevensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12534798292577016668noreply@blogger.com0