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December 31, 2006
Overall attendance was really low this morning. We picked up
twenty “bus” riders, which is our lowest in several years. I
preached on the necessity of starting the New Year with a
determination to pray more fervently, and more frequently.
Several responded to the invitation with a desire to be real
prayer warriors in 2007.
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December 27, 2006
David concluded his study on Galatians this evening. He
really taught a good series this month. I have been
impressed with his depth of study and his style of delivery.
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December 24, 2006
We left this morning for the “bus” route with the
expectation that we would be low, but the expectations were
unfounded. Forty people rode the “bus” this morning.
The services were special with a variety of chorals, solos,
duets, and readings. Quite a few people participated in the
various activities of the service. We even had our junior
church in the main service. Beka’s chorale sang for the
first time. It was an encouraging service.
After the services we had a small Christmas dinner at the
Institute with the students, Hillhouse’s and us. Mary, Pam,
Carissa, and our daughters prepared a good meal with treats.
We enjoyed the meal and especially the fellowship during and
after the meal. Mike even treated us to some “rap”
I thoroughly enjoyed our time this afternoon, as did the
others.
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December 20, 2006
David continued his study on Galatians with an emphasis on
Walking in the Spirit. He used illustrations several times,
referencing another young Christian who had misunderstood
the power of the Spirit. Apparently this young man would
tear off his clothes and began to flex his muscles showing
his “filling.” He would also talk about the unlimited amount
of “knowledge” he possessed when he was “filled” with the
Spirit. All of this was at a time when David was a new
Christian and very impressionable. Still he said that this
manifestation of the Spirit was not something that he could
agree with and just knew there was something else to being
“filled” with the Spirit. He taught the lesson on the fruit
of the Spirit well.
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December 17, 2006
After having to wait an unusually long time in Tanghin for
several of our “bus” riders we were forced to leave several
behind as the time quickly escaped us. With much frustration
at this development we left with sixteen from this
neighborhood. By the time our route was done we had
thirty-two “bus” riders this morning.
Rachel was back in the Junior Church with a “normal” amount
of children; forty-three. Mary started another Junior Church
for the preteens with a total of ten for her first class. I
had the opportunity to preach on Christmas this morning and
three people responded to the invitation; two for assurance
of their salvation and one young lady, Larissa, who has
become faithful since our Campaign accepting the Lord
through the witness of Mary.
During the services we took the opportunity to recognize the
individual winners of our Fall Campaign; that man and woman
who scored the most points throughout the eight weeks.
(Points were awarded for attendance, bringing their Bibles,
Scripture memory and inviting visitors.) Cecile won the most
points for the women and Paul one the most points for the
men barely edging out David for first place.
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December 13, 2006
David continued his Bible study on Galatians highlighting
the major points from chapter 1 and 2. Like last week, he
was well prepared and humble in his teaching. He continues
to exhibit the grace of God upon his life both by word and
by deed.
Beka also continued with the ladies choral in their
preparations for their special service this coming Sunday.
She is greatly encouraged by the participation of several of
the ladies and is preparing for future choral events after
this Christmas season.
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December 12, 2006
This evening Alexandre finished his studies on Satanologie
taking his final exam. He passed with a perfect score. After
his exam we started the following study on the Family.
Alexandre had some great news; he has been hired again for a
couple of months at SONABEL, the national electric company.
It is something he has sought after for years and studied
for years. Although it is not a full time job in the sense
of each month it is still an opening for a future full time
job. He was very excited and encouraged about it.
We also talked about Pissy and we have decided to rent the
room in the neighborhood of Boname for commencing the Bible
studies. Please continue to pray about this new opportunity.
We hope to have the rent finalized by the end of this month
and the Bible studies started.
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December 10, 2006
This morning was another low day for our “bus” route with
twenty-one riders. With this being the second week after our
Fall Campaign, we were still very encouraged about our
attendance.
Mike HILLHOUSE preached this morning without a translator
into French, but he did have a translator for Mooré, Paul.
Mike continues to improve each week with his French. (One
day he will be caught up with Pam. :-()
One young man, a first time visitor, Adolph responded to the
invitation in repenting and receiving Christ as his Savior.
Another young, faithful man, Emmanuel, also responded to the
invitation in seeking the assurance of his salvation.
Mary took over for Rachel, who was sick, in the Junior
Church. Attendance there was also lower than normal. She had
several young Muslim boys who were very inquisitive about
the lesson and asked a lot of questions.
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December 08, 2006
Alexandre, Paul and I went to Pissy with a couple of other
Institute students, Denis and Augustin, to visit a few new
converts there and to encourage them in their new found
faith. They are excited about starting a work there; first
with weekly Bible studies and then with Sunday services.
Please pray for the work as we start.
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December 06, 2006
David started his monthly series on Galatians this evening.
Before the services he took me aside and said that he was
really scared about teaching the Word of God. I told him I
would be worried if he was not nervous about it. He really
prepared well and his delivery was also well done.
Beka had six women for her Ladies Choir. They are working on
Christmas specials.
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December 03, 2006
We were a little low this morning in all of the services
beginning with the “bus” route, where we had twenty-five
riders. Church attendance was low, but still good for our
first Sunday after our Fall Campaign. With Rachel in Ghana
for the week on a school trip, the Junior Church was also a
little low. Still we had great services with Denis preaching
his first sermon on “Obedience.” Several responded to the
invitation requesting prayer for obedience in particular
areas that God has been dealing with them individually.
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December 02, 2006
There was no Soul-Winning Club this morning. We have
“paused” our studies until after the holiday season.
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November 29, 2006
Dominike taught the Bible study tonight on “Temptation”
using as his text the temptation of Christ from Matthew 4.
He aptly applied Christ’s temptation and His way of
overcoming it to each one of us. It was a very good Bible
study.
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November 26, 2006
Alexandre continues to keep up with his Institute studies on
Tuesday evenings. He came from Pissy very excited about two
of his friends repenting and receiving the Lord as their
Savior. His heart is definitely turned towards Pissy. Please
pray for our soon-to-be work in Pissy and for Alexandre and
his spiritual growth.
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November 26, 2006
We were a little concerned about the “bus” route this
morning as our first couple of stops resulted in a less than
normal amount of riders. We ended up about normal with
forty-two riders, lower than the week before. Church
attendance continues to be over 120. I preached this morning
for the end of our Campaign on “Witnessing? Why?” One young
man, who had come for the first time last week, Camille,
responded to the invitation and received Christ as his
Savior. Praise the Lord! (After the results are tallied for
this Campaign I will post the results and our thoughts about
it.)
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November 25, 2006
Thirteen people were present for our Soul-Winning Club this
morning. There were eight professions of faith this week.
One of those saved was a young man that Nestor has been
working with for several weeks. Another two were saved
through the witnessing of Benoit to his family. Plus
Alexandre had the opportunity to lead two more people to the
Lord in Pissy. Thirty-five more new converts were followed
up.
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November 24, 2006
With Alexandre’s interest in Pissy, Alexandre, Paul, Mike
and I visited a maisonnette (small room/house) for rent
there. Alexandre has been active in evangelizing his family
and friends for over six months now. Daniel, one of our
recent baptized converts in Dassasgo, has also moved down to
Pissy. So there are plenty of opportunities to begin Bible
studies there. The maisonnette might be a little small, but
it still looks sufficient for our needs. Please pray for
wisdom as we branch out in this neighborhood with a weekly
Bible study.
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November 22, 2006
The Bible study tonight was on Obedience. Attendance was
typical for a school night.
(I had thought about stopping the Wednesday studies for a
while: as a majority of our people attends night school in
an attempt to further their education; a goal I have
heartily encouraged. Fortunately, as I was contemplating
this decision one of our members stated that Wednesday
nights is a great time of encouragement and they greatly
look forward to it, saying it would be a shame to cancel
something that those in attendance find refreshing and
reinvigorating. We have decided to continue!
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November 19, 2006
Sensing the urgency to start a little earlier on the “bus”
route, Mike and I took off about fifteen minutes earlier
than normal. By the end of the “bus” route, and about half
an hour after the start of services, we had a record number
of riders since the start of the “bus” route with
fifty-eight riders.
Paul preached this morning on the “Sword of the Spirit,”
continuing with the theme of our Fall Campaign on the Armor
of God. His presentation, proclamation and plea for
accepting Christ was great. Several people told me after the
services that this was one of the best “evangelistic
sermons” they heard. One young lady, who has come for the
second time, Adama, raised her hand, indicating her need and
desire to be saved. Mary dealt with her after the services
and Adama repented in receiving Christ as her Savoir.
There is one more week for the Campaign, but it has already
been established that this was a great success for our
young, growing Church. Today our attendance again topped the
one hundred mark with 135 “assistants.” We have been
consistently over the hundred mark since the second week of
the campaign. Visitors have been in every service and ten
people have made professions of faith during the
invitations. (It is time to begin preparing for our Spring
Campaign.
)
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November 18, 2006
Twelve men showed up for our Soul-Winning Club this morning
as we started a small series on witnessing in the midst of
an increasing senate, secular society. Several responded
that this increasing secularization is very evident even
here in Ouagadougou, mostly the result of our French
influence.
Six people made professions of faith this week through our
outreach efforts. Another thirty-four recent converts were
followed up by visits. Alexandre said he found a suitable
meeting place to begin Bible studies in Pissy.
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November 15, 2006
Revival was the topic for tonight’s Bible study. We were not
sure how well received it would be, but given the facial
expressions and the seriousness with which it was received
it obviously touched the hearts. With most of our Institute
students in night school we still had a good attendance of
seventeen adults.
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November 14, 2006
Tonight Alexandre began his evening studies for the
Institute. He has received the materials for the courses and
will be studying them at work. Then each week we will get
together to “discuss” each course; those problems of
comprehension, those doubts, those difficulties.
He mentioned his dilemma; he has three choices in his life
and he needs to choose one of those three. His first option
is to move to Pissy, open up a workshop there while
commencing a Bible study. His second option is to continue
with his workshop here in Dassasgo and attend the Institute
whenever possible. His third option is to hire a young man
to assist him in the workshop and start attending the
Institute full-time. Please pray with him about this
decision in his life.
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November 13, 2006
Today we started a study on “Le Foyer” (The Home) for the
Institute. I had been a little apprehensive about this study
because of the vast difference between our cultures on the
Family. So I was not sure how well this study would be
perceived; both in respect to the cultural differences and
the Biblical mandates. My worry was in vain, as today
revealed how seriously our students take the Biblical
principles on marriage. Every student participated willingly
in the discussions, offering their personal experiences and
observations. All agreed, time and time again, about their
desire to follow the Bible’s prescription for a healthy
family.
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November 12, 2006
It looked like we were going to be a little low on the “bus”
route this morning, as several regulars were missing, but by
the end we still had forty-four riders. Overall church
attendance was lower than normal, but still we had over 110
people in our services. Missionary Mike HILLHOUSE preached
this morning. Even though he had the translation services of
Alexandre, he preached almost the entire message in French.
It was a well delivered message and one that was well
received by those in attendance.
Our Fall Campaign continues to bring results as both teams
are bringing visitors each week and almost twenty adults are
memorizing the verses for the week. We have two more weeks
left before we announce the winning team, but it will take a
lot of work for the “Armée de David” to overcome the huge
lead that the “Armée d’Israël” has built up.
As we were bringing home the “bus” route my Pajero broke
down several times; all within a few minutes of each other.
First, as we were bringing home the first passengers my
wheel bolts came off causing my tire to bend inward.
(This in itself was a tremendous blessing from the Lord, as
we were driving on a difficult dirt road wherein we had to
drive very slowly. This was our first and only time on this
road. We are normally on a paved road traveling at least 50
kph. If we kept with the normal schedule our tire bolts
would have fell off at too high a speed to control the
vehicle. By His grace we were going the right speed to avoid
a major accident. Praise the Lord!)
We immediately stopped and called our mechanic who happened
to be in the area. As we were waiting for him, Mike and Pam
began to take home the rest of the “bus” route in their
vehicle. The mechanic came and said the problem was “pas
mal” (not too bad) and he could fix it quickly. Securing the
bolts from a nearby shop he proceeded to do the reparations.
One hour later we were back on the road only to realize that
we had another flat tire. Quickly it was changed and we were
back on the road. Five minutes later one of our water hoses
sprung a leak. By the grace of God we made it home with our
Pajero and the rest of the “bus” riders made it home with
the HILLHOUSEs.
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November 11, 2006
We did not have our Soul-Winning Club this morning as we
traveled to Tanghin to build a hangar for services there.
With Mike and me came seven other Institute students to help
in the building. When we arrived in Tanghin, as is the
custom, we visited with the Naba and several of the older
men of the village. They readily consented to give their
blessings for our endeavors this morning. With the help of
about thirty villagers, we secured some wood, bought some
straw, and proceeded with the construction of this hangar.
Since the marché is only once every three days, and today
the third day, many of the villagers were eager to get the
hangar built so they could sell and buy at the marché. I
tried to encourage those needing to go to the marché but
they insisted on staying until the completion of the work,
because, as they stated, this is their “blessing” also. It
was a good day of work as we worked side by side with the
villagers in helping them secure a suitable meeting place
for worship services.
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November 10, 2006
The Institute held its second final test this morning for
the subject of Satanology. All of the students but one made
a passing mark. The one who did not will have to retake a
different test and if he fails this test he will be required
to retake the course when it is offered again. Two students
made perfect scores and another three made marks higher than
90%.
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November 08, 2006
For our Wednesday services we decided to allow for
participation while concentrating on prayer. We held Bible
drills with verses designed to highlight our prayer life and
the efficacy of prayer. We added an incentive by offering a
special pen and a special sticker to whoever would win the
sword drill. Our first winner was Missionary Pam HILLHOUSE,
who stood out well ahead of the rest of the crowd. The
second winner was Paul who barely ecked out a victory over
several others.
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November 05, 2006
Another “normal” day for services in Dassasgo with Mike and
me back to the “bus” route with our Pajero. We picked up
thirty-four riders with several first time adult visitors.
(Unfortunately these first time riders did not make it back
to home until after 1 PM and one could see the
discouragement in their demeanor.) We were again over 120+
people in the services for the third week in a row.
Ghislain preached on the “Girdle of Righteousness” and was
urgent on the necessity of salvation as the only way to
obtain the righteousness of God. He continues to develop
into a fine young preacher, who is getting more and more
animated and urgent in his delivery of the wonderful words
of life.
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November 04, 2006
Fifteen people were present for the Soul-Winning Club this
morning. (We have had a two week hiatus because of the
visiting TEAM from our sending church.) Ten people made
professions through our Club outreach with another
forty-four follow-up visits.
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November 01, 2006
We started back with the Institute studies this morning. Our
topic of study for this course is Satanology, wherein we
will discuss animism and occultism evident here in Burkina.
This morning as we started it was evident that this will be
a very interesting course, as practically everyone became
involved in the discussions, some adamantly.
With today being a national holiday, (All Saints Day), all
of the students were present tonight for our Bible study and
prayer meeting. “The Believers Blessing” was the study for
tonight.
During the prayer request time it was encouraging to hear
many people express gratitude for the TEAM being with us.
Everyone on both sides continue to express thanks to the
Lord for the opportunity to get to know, and work alongside,
each other. It was a great two weeks for all those involved.
===============================================================
October 29, 2006
Pastor TUCKER, Mary and I started out trip to Tanghin at
5:30 AM. (The rest of the TEAM stayed behind to assist in
the “bus” route and with the church in Dassasgo.) We arrived
in Tanghin early and were greeted by the Naba. Denis arrived
and showed us their normal meeting place under a small tree
next to his property, but we were not meeting there today as
the desire of the Naba was for us to meet under his tree.
Before the services we visited Denis’ home and met his wife,
two children and his mother. On the way back from his home
we were introduced to his neighbor who was over 100 years
old. During the invitation seven people raised their hands
for salvation with five men making public professions of
faith. Denis also mentioned his desire to come to the
Institute. It would be difficult for him with his family,
his home, and his crops to move into Ouaga. We said we would
pray about a good solution for the desires of his heart.
Please pray with us.
Then we proceeded to Boulwando, arriving an hour late. With
the birth of a young boy to Dominike’s big brother this very
morning, we were low in attendance. Still Pastor TUCKER
preached a great message that touched the heart of those in
attendance. Two men raised their hands for assurance of
their salvation.
On the drive home we were again confronted with “car
trouble.” This is one of the most discouraging facets of
ministry here. :-( By His grace we made it home to Ouaga and
enjoyed a great meal at the HILLHOUSE’S.
Missionary Mike HILLHOUSE took charge of the services, and
especially the “bus” route this morning. Brian assisted him
on the route. He used the transporter that the TEAM has
rented for their stay here. Still with all of the stops
seeking new visitors the arrival of the “bus” for church was
an hour late. (Being late seeking souls interested in
hearing the Word of God is well worth the tardiness!) Bob
GIBLER preached in Dassasgo. The other members of the TEAM
assisted in the services as before. Al teamed up with David,
one of our Institute students for a special song. We again
had several first time visitors. Our campaign appears to be
working well and the enthusiasm is encouraging, as we again
had 139 people present for the services.
Tonight for the final night out in Ouaga we went to the “Le
Mokhtar.” Arriving late we were surprised at the time it
took to order, cook, eat and pay for our meal. We did not
arrive home until 11:30 PM. This was a rewarding, yet tiring
day.
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October 28, 2006
6 AM had came really early this morning as we drove out to
Boulwando for special services for cutting the ties between
our sending church and the young church there. The Institute
students drove out with us, as well as a few church members
from Dassasgo. It was also encouraging to have National
Pastor/Missionary Andre BAZIE and his family with us to help
us celebrate this special occasion. Noël BADO came to help
us in our services.
Pastor TUCKER preached the charge to this new church. He
stressed their responsibilities to the pastor as well as the
pastor’s responsibilities to the church. Then he encouraged
this young church to plant other churches as the main
emphasis of their existence, bringing in the experiences of
his church, Northeast Baptist Church, being birthed by
Tri-City Baptist Church in Kansas City many years ago.
The church was full with an overflowing crowd. Everyone who
participated in this service did an outstanding job. After
the services we witnessed the first baptism by Dominike as
four new Christians were biblically baptized and added to
this young church.
Denis DIPAMA, our faithful member from Tanghin, came to be
with us and asked to be baptized. He has been the foundation
of our small work there since his conversion a year ago.
Since this work is a joint effort of our Dassasgo work and
Boulwando work we felt it would be a great testimony to
those present as well as further assisting in the spiritual
growth in Tanghin. So Denis was baptized after the four new
converts from Boulwando.
When we finally arrived home from this long day, the men
went to the Institute to continue with the furniture. They
worked till almost 10 PM before retiring for the evening.
===============================================================
October 27, 2006
Our sister church in Tingandogo, under the leadership of
Missionary Keith SHUMAKER came up to Ouagadougou for another
match with our church in Dassasgo and with the TEAM from
Northeast. We divided into four teams with Tingandogo
remaining intact with their players, and our church and the
TEAM dividing up into three teams. The International School
of Ouagadougou graciously allowed us to use their soccer
fields for the match.
The first teams played to a 2 – 2 tie. Both teams were
composed of members of the TEAM and members of the Dassasgo
church. The second match pitted Brother SHUMAKER’s church
against some of our members of Dassasgo and the TEAM.
Unfortunately we were again defeated 3 – 1. It was a
competitive friendly match and the camaraderie was exciting
to witness.
During the final game Brother SHUMAKER fell and broke his
ankle. Please pray for his quick recovery.
This afternoon with the arrival of SIAO (the tenth
international African Art Festival in Ouagadougou which is
held every two years), the TEAM visited the many, many
different types of African Art Exhibits. This is a very big
event for Ouaga and the TEAM thoroughly enjoyed their visit
there.
The Restaurant de Chine, our very good Chinese restaurant,
was our eating establishment for tonight. We sat around the
table talking about our adventures this week over a finely
cooked meal.
===============================================================
October 26, 2006
At the American Recreation Center the students of the
Fundamental Baptist Institute of Ouagadougou and the TEAM
from Northeast engaged in some friendly sports competition.
We divided up into three teams of six each for a round robin
tournament. The victorious team was comprised of Bob, Eric,
Denis, Nestor, Douninoma and I.
We then formed tennis teams that included our daughters Beka
and Rachel. During the various tennis matches several
members lifted weights and started swimming. Al taught
several of the Institute men how to dive. After the various
sporting events, which were enjoyed by all, we feasted on
some good American hamburgers and fries.
This was a very special treat for both the Institute
students and the TEAM. We want to say a very special thank
you to Pastor Tucker for providing for this special day.
This afternoon we again loaded up the transporter with
Institute students and TEAM members for a trip to the
crocodile lake in Bazoli. It was not only eye-opening for
the TEAM members but also for our students. Several TEAM
members and students decided to “sit” on a crocodile.
===============================================================
October 25, 2006
The TEAM wanted to finish laying bricks up to the first bond
row, which is above the windows and doors. With everyone
working franticly we made it! By 2 PM this afternoon we
reached the goal of the bond row, loaded up the transporter
and headed back to Ouaga after two nights and three days in
the village of Boulwando.
This evening for our services we sang songs, several sang
some specials and then we broke up into prayer groups with
the TEAM being divided among the church members. It was a
special time of prayer as several different languages were
raised in adoration and supplication to our Lord. We were
all very tired and glad to be back in Ouaga and the spirit
was one of tranquilly.
After the services we took the TEAM to the best ice cream
place in Ouaga. It was the second visit for them and there
was no doubt that they thoroughly enjoyed the ice cream;
unexpected treats in the Sahel.
===============================================================
October 24, 2006
This morning came way too early for most of us. One by one
we arose thinking it was late in the morning. After we were
all awake and “ready” to go, we realized it was still before
6 AM. Mary fed us a great breakfast with ham and eggs cooked
over the makeshift grill prepared by Al. The work continued
this morning on the house for the pastor in Boulwando.
Throughout the day, many of the village elders came by to
greet us. The husband of Binta, the forty-five year old
woman we took to the hospital the night before, came by to
especially thank us for helping his family during this time.
He wanted us to know that he did not have anything for us,
but he was greatly encouraged by our willingness to help
him. His son gave Pastor TUCKER a chicken as a sign of
appreciation and he blessed us and the work we were trying
to do here in Boulwando. The driver of our transporter was
also present and we learned that it was his mother who we
helped.
This afternoon, as planned, Mary, Carol, Mona and four
students who had to return for night school returned with
the transporter to Ouaga. Pastor Tucker who fell ill a
little decided to return to Ouaga and take the transporter
back tomorrow morning.
This afternoon we visited the marché in Boulwando. The
timing was perfect; the marché only happens every three days
here. After receiving special permission from the Naba the
TEAM was allowed to take photos and video of the marché and
of the Naba.
After dinner we were treated to more music which included
dancing in praise to the Lord. It was an experience for us
to witness village people who were trapped into animism
rejoice in song and dance to the Lord for their deliverance.
The village was again entertained by several of the TEAM
members and our daughters in song. It was not very long
afterward that we took sweet comfort in our beds.
===============================================================
October 23, 2006
Today we started the work of building a parsonage in
Boulwando. It took two trips to make it there. The first
trip took out Al, Charlie, Brian, Bob and four students. The
second trip took out the rest of the TEAM, Mike, our family
and another seven students.
With our arrival Mary quickly prepared our lunch, which
turned into our dinner because of the time problems. She
cooked great hamburgers over a makeshift grill that Al
prepared with blocks, wood and our grill top.
It was encouraging to see TEAM members working alongside of
the Institute students and several men of the village. With
the sun and the heat it was very difficult working but the
spirits were high and the fellowship sweet.
As I was talking with David, Yembi, and Dominike a young man
approached Dominike, wanting to talk with him. His mother
fell sick the day before and has gotten worse since then.
They wanted to ask us to take their mother to the hospital
in Meguet and few miles south of town. Dominike said Binta,
the mother, has been saved in the church. Pastor TUCKER and
I drove to their house in the village where were assembled a
multitude of people. They lifted Binta into the back of the
Pajero and another six adults along with Dominike, the
Pastor and I, quickly drove to the hospital. They woke up
the doctor and placed her in a room. Pastor TUCKER gave the
son some money to help with the medications. We prayed and
left Binta and her family there for the night.
This evening we sat around with many members of the church
singing French, English and Mooré songs. In between singing
several people gave their testimonies. At the end we asked
each other questions about one another’s culture. Dominike
ended in pray and we retreated back to our makeshift house
in the church building.
===============================================================
October 22, 2006
Wow! What a great day we had in Dassasgo! The Lord really
blessed the efforts of everyone. The “bus” route, running
again, picked up forty-six people. Most of those that
promised to bring visitors brought visitors. As we were in
the process of picking up people, we realized that we would
not have time to pick up everyone. So we called my wife,
Mary, to have the transporter pick up a few more for us.
With the TEAM from Northeast here, my family, and the others
that were picked up, there were another thirteen riders.
Also Missionary Mike HILLHOUSE took several riders in his
vehicle. There were several people that missed the “bus” but
as the services started they began to arrive on the
bicycles. There were 139 people in our services; the highest
attendance for our young church. Praise the Lord!
The TEAM from our sending church, Northeast Baptist Church,
of Independence, Missouri, Pastor John Tucker, took over
most of the service. Pastor Tucker preached on the “Shield
of Faith.” I translated into French, and with several Mooré
speakers present, Paul translated into Mooré. The entire
TEAM sang a special. Two of the TEAM members, Brian Tucker
and Bob Gibler also sung a special. Al Pearson and his son,
Charlie publicly prayed. Mona Austin gave her testimony
about how God called her back to him after wandering in
“Egypt” for many years. Carol Merrell and Bridgette Neeley
assisted Rachel in the junior church with eighty children
present.
During the invitation more than eight people raised their
hands for salvation. There were four who publicly professed
Christ while being dealt with individually. Even Pastor
Tucker led a Burkinabé to the Lord in English! (There might
be others, but because of the “bus” route I am not able to
stay too late and by the time I return, most people have
already left. I will get a more detailed report individually
tomorrow.)
===============================================================
October 21, 2006
We, the Joyce’s and the Hillhouse’s, took the TEAM to the
President’s Zoo in Zinaire. It was an experience for all of
us, as it is by invitation only. Mary made contact with
someone in the President’s office who granted us permission
to visit this morning.
This afternoon the TEAM went to the Institute to start on
some of the furniture. As they were there cutting the wood
with most of the students, Pastor Tucker, Missionary Mike
Hillhouse, Paul, David, my daughters Beka and Rachel, and
myself visited for several hours. We concentrated on the
“bus” route, reminding them our vehicle is repaired and
ready to go. Several people promised to bring visitors.
===============================================================
October 20, 2006
This morning we went to the hardware store to purchase the
wood, bolts, screws, etc., that is needed for the furniture
for our Institute. Our goal is to make bunk beds and
wardrobes with drawers for each room.
This afternoon, as we were waiting for the six pieces of
luggage that contained the tools, we took the TEAM to a
local marché where they were divided up and assisted by my
children to barter with the vendors. We planned on staying
for a couple of hours, but ended up staying another hour. It
was a great experience for the TEAM to experience “buying”
in this country.
Then this evening we had an evening of games at the
Institute. Another good crowd showed for to participate in
different games with TEAM members. We had several neighbors
visit for the first time who were also active in the games.
Several of our students were in night classes and came after
9 PM with several of their friends. We even had several
people stay until 4 AM fellowshipping and playing games.
===============================================================
October 19, 2006
We let most of the TEAM sleep in; trying to ease the jet lag
from their trip. Pastor Tucker, Al and I woke up early. We
drove around the south and east end of Ouaga. It was
exciting for me as I saw their astonishment of our beautiful
city. They were greatly impressed. Ouaga is a city
unimaginable to the average America!
Le Verdoyant was the restaurant of choice this evening. The
TEAM, the Joyce’s and the Hillhouse’s enjoyed the evening of
fellowship around our large table under the veranda.
===============================================================
October 18, 2006
This morning the students took the final test with everyone
passing it. Three students made 100%. The Institute will
stop for the next two weeks while the TEAM from our sending
church is here assisting us in several projects.
David taught the evening Bible Study this evening as we went
to the airport to pick up the TEAM from our sending church,
Northeast Baptist Church, Independence, Missouri, Pastor
John Tucker. Our sending church sent eight people to assist
us this week with several projects. The eight members of the
TEAM are: Pastor John Tucker, Al Pearson, Brian Tucker, Bob
Gibler, Charlie Pearson, Carol Merrell, Mona Austin and
Bridgette Neeley.
The projects are : (1) to organize the Fundamental Baptist
Church of Boulwando as an independent Baptist Church; (2) to
start the building of a parsonage for the church in
Boulwando; (3) to build some furniture for the Institute;
and (4) to help build a hangar for the church in Tanghin.
Unfortunately the TEAM did not receive six of their luggage
from the airport. It was even more unfortunate that in those
missing luggage are the tools needed to start some of the
projects. Please pray for the arrival of the luggage this
Friday, as that is the next flight possible to receive them.
===============================================================
October 17, 2006
Today was the final day for the study of the doctrine of
Dispensations. Tomorrow will be the final test.
After the classes, Dominike, Paul and Alexandre had a
conversation with me about Benoit; the young man recently
saved and baptized. He has been sitting in our Institute
classes for several weeks. Still we had not opened the door
for him yet. We are concerned about perceptions and
expectations, both from him and from us. It was decided that
he should stay in the church faithfully for more time before
becoming a full time student. Please pray for him and his
spiritual growth.
===============================================================
October 15, 2006
We are still without our vehicle this morning. Graciously
Missionary Mike Hillhouse decided to drive the main portion
of our route picking up the adults and their immediate
family. (The size of his vehicle is much smaller than our
Pajero and it would take too many trips to pick up
everyone.) Still we picked up twenty “bus” riders this
morning.
We are in our second week of our fall campaign which is
based upon the armor of God from Ephesians 6. There were
several first time visitors and several who have not come in
a while were present. We had a packed house for our adult
services, with over forty present. Alexandre preached this
morning on the “Truth” and used as his text Psalm 5. He
clearly presented the gospel and the need to speak the truth
in love. Several hands were raised for the invitation from
people wanting to live in the truth daily.
After the services we had another baptism with three
following the Lord in believer’s baptism and being added to
the church. Benoit, who was saved in the church in Boulwando,
and who had just moved into Ouaga, was baptized. Daniel, who
was saved about two months ago, and has been coming
faithfully, also was baptized biblically. Germane, who
professed Christ in March of this year, and had been
reluctant to be baptized, stepped forward at the end to be
united with her Lord and our church. We praise the Lord for
these three adults who were scripturally baptized this
morning.
===============================================================
October 14, 2006
Thirteen people came for the Soul-Winning Club this morning.
It was really encouraging to see so many people there, with
several for the first time. There were six professions of
faith this week, with four of them being on the road.
Another thirty-four recent converts were followed-up. The
enthusiasm for our Sunday morning campaign is growing.
After the Bible study, Missionary Mike, David, Eric, Paul
and I went to visit our “bus” route to let them know about
our vehicle condition. We had a good time visiting,
especially since we were all on the same army except Paul,
who is the captain of the other army. Pour Paul did not have
a chance with us. :-)
===============================================================
October 11, 2006
This evening our study was on the Believers Life. Attendance
was a little low, but those there were really active in the
study.
===============================================================
October 08, 2006
This was the second week in a row that we were without our
vehicle for running the “bus route”. Unfortunately this was
also the first Sunday of our campaign. We still had a great
start for the campaign as Missionary Mike Hillhouse preached
a great message for the introduction of our campaign on the
Armor of God from Ephesians 6. We had six visitors,
including a young man named Alexis, who accepted the Lord
over a year ago. Ghislain was really encouraged to have him
there as he has been working with him since his profession
of faith.
===============================================================
October 07, 2006
Missionary Mike Hillhouse and I went to Koudougou this
morning for a visit with national pastor/missionary André
BAZIE. While there we visited his church in Poun where Noël
lives and works. After the customary greetings Noël brought
up some of the difficulties he was having adjusting to not
returning for another year at the Institute. He was really
discourage, as he was not informed by either me or
Missionary Bazie or even his own pastor, Joël.
(Noël has spent three years in the Bible Institute in the
village where André teaches and two years with us. He is
well qualified with respect to his education and he is also
experienced in the ministry. Both André and I had decided
that he was ready to assume one of the works (four) that
André has down in the Koudougou area. So we thought that
furthering his education would only delay his move into
active ministry. Unfortunately for the summer break his was
not informed that he would be receiving a diploma from our
Institute the end of this school year and had eagerly
anticipated another year here at the IBFO.)
Noël is a godly young preacher with an eager willingness to
participate in ministry under extreme difficulties. He has
proven himself faithful for the two years here. Please pray
for this discouraging time in his life right now. Please
also pray that we would be able to be an encouragement to
him and the ministry God has for him.
Paul took over the Soul-Winning Club this moring, teaching
on the “Methods of Evangelisation.” There were ten people
present this morning. Three people made professions of faith
this week. Twenty-seven recent converts were followed up.
===============================================================
October 04, 2006
The Fundamental Baptist Institute of Ouagadougou started its
fourth year this morning with one returning senior, Dominike
KONSIMBO, one returning junior, Ghislain NAGALO, one
returning sophmore who is completing his fifth semester,
Paul SAYOUGA, four returning sophmores, David KORGO,
Douninoma KORGO, Eric KONSIMBO and Denis BAZIE, three
freshman, Nestor OUEDRAOGO, Augustin BAZIE and Cecile
KONSIMBO, and one part time student, Timothée KABORE. Three
of the students are returning from National
Pastor/Missionary André BAZIE’s mission works in Koudougou,
Ghislain, Denis and Augustin. Two students are from our
mission work in Boulwando, Dominike and Eric. Timothée was
saved years ago in a Baptist church, fell out of church and
started attending our work in Dassasgo before he joined IBFO.
The rest of the students were saved through our church in
Dassasgo. Cecile is the first woman to attend our Institute.
We are anticipating another great year at the Institute.
This evening our Bible study was on the Christian’s life. We
had a good attendence of twenty-one adults. It is exciting
to see the enthousiam being generated for our first
campaigne starting this Sunday.
===============================================================
October 01, 2006
We have become experts in time management Sunday mornings,
so much so, that we have found an extra fifteen minutes that
we could use during the “bus” route. Therefore we decided to
delay our morning departure until 7:15 AM and delete the
wasted space between routes. Unfortunately this morning at
7:10 AM I realized our makeshift “bus” (Pajero) would not
start. I tried and tried to find a simple solution to repair
it, but being mechanically challenged has its disadvantages,
I could not get it started. For only the third time in two
years, our “bus” route did not run because of “mechanical
failure.”
Paul preached this morning on salvation from Ephesians
2:1-10. He really emphasized the necessity of believing in
Christ’s work on the cross as opposed to the opinions of
various churches that teach baptismal regeneration, or some
types of works salvation.
After the services Nestor was biblically baptized and joined
to our church family. He has wanted to be baptized since the
middle of August. This week he will start his first year at
our Institute.
Ferdinand talked with me after the services about his move
to Ziga for work. He will be leaving this Wednesday and will
be living in Ziga for at least nine months. It is really
discouraging to see him leave at this time in his life. We
have been working with him for almost two years, witnessed
his salvation experience, gave testimony to his baptism, and
rejoiced in his service to the Lord, and now as he continues
to grow in grace, we “lose” him to another town. Please pray
for him as he moves; for his work, his family and especially
for his continued spiritual growth.
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