June 17, 2007

Fifteen people rode the “bus” route for our last time this morning. We were also very late for the services, for a variety of reasons. The church services were well attended, with just over 105 in attendance. My last message was more “Counsels” regarding our departure taken from 2 Corinthians 11 and Acts 20.

After the church services we baptized five recent converts. Granted authority from our sending church, Paul baptized for the first time. All of those baptized were those who were saved within the last two months.

Immediately after the baptism, Franck held a meeting with about seven of our new converts in hope of starting a “new convert’s class” as a way of Biblical discipleship, encouragement and strengthening the new believer in their new found faith. Several left the meeting encouraged about these new things happening.

Sadly, one young lady approached me about something she really needed to talk about. I asked her to talk with Paul, but she insisted it had to me and me only. As we started talking she began crying and saying “mon Papa” and could not go any further because of the depth of emotion that was overwhelming her. I asked if her “Papa” was dead and she said no. I asked if her “Papa” was hurt and she said no. Finally I asked if her “Papa” was mean to her and she said yes. Apparently her “Papa” has been physically, (not sexually), abusing her for some time. She even stated that her “Papa” had personally killed her “Moma” and has repeatedly threatened to take a knife and cut her throat in the middle of the night.

Emotions began to overtake me also. I found myself almost in tears as this young teenage girl, with tears streaming down her face, revealed the tremendous hurt and fear in her heart. (With our departure for the States tomorrow, what can I do now? How can I help her through this ordeal if I could not be here?) I asked her again to please let me approach Paul to gain his assistance in her need. She refused but after a few more pleas from me realized that this “problem” would not disappear with just a “talk” with me.

So Paul was called over to understand her plight and to assist in her need. She reiterated her plight, with a flood of tears, and stood there waiting for our response. She was definitely troubled and absolutely frightened. She had turned to us, as her only hope in this difficult ordeal. Reluctantly, and with a troubled heart, I slid away from her and Paul, praying intensely for God to intervene in her life right now.

She just started attending our church services, and has recently made a profession of faith. Such innocence being swallowed up with so much wickedness is almost overwhelming for me! We greatly covet your prayers for her and her very difficult and tense situation!

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June 16, 2007

With a flurry of activities scheduled for today, it was decided to let the Soul-Winning Club have a day off of its regular schedule.

This afternoon, as has been our custom, we hosted a farewell dinner for the Institute. The students made their way to our house to enjoy a time of food, fun and fellowship. As we were sitting around we decided to imitate one another, as a type of charades. I was not sure whether this game would be a success or not, but, Caleb, who chose the game, insisted it would be great. It was great as almost every wanted to participate mimicking each other, and each other’s idiosyncrasies, in some fun jesting.

Shorting thereafter they made their way to Mike and Pam’s work in Somgandé for an evening of fun around a movie and fellowship with some snacks. (You can read about this event on their web log : http://hillhousefamily.blogspot.com/  )

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June 13, 2007

On our last Wednesday evening I concluded our Discipleship series in recapping the six week series. It was another well attended Bible study and also, as has been the recent custom, a little longer than normal.

Fellowship or “followship” was especially longer as most wanted to “talk” with us before our departure, not realizing that we would still be able to talk with them for another five days. Many concerns were raised about the future and many encouragements offered to and from each one. We are beginning to feel the pressures and sadness of our so-to-be departure. It will be a difficult departure from our end.

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June 12, 2007

Four years ago when we started the Fundamental Baptist Institute of Ouagadougou it seemed like our first graduating class would be a very long way off. Today was that day wherein we graduated our first class with two graduates. See other Photos on the Institute's page.

Dominike was saved in Boulwando when we started evangelizing his village. Shortly thereafter, as we started our Institute he came into Ouaga to attend the Institute. Four years later, he is the only one of the original three students to finish his four years. Dominike has been the acting pastor of the Fundamental Baptist Church of Boulwando and will be assuming the pastorate there full time.

Ghilain was saved under the evangelistic efforts of National Pastor/Missionary André BAZIE. After a short time in the church near Koudougou he started attending an Institute near there, in the village Kyon, for three years. Three years ago he transferred to the IBFO and completed his studies this year.

The ceremonial service this evening was well attended, well planned, and well excuted. Brother Franck OUÉDRAOGO spoke this evening, sharing his testimony and encouraging the two graduates to be faithful.

After the services, we held a reception with special cakes prepared by ours daughters; Beka and Rachel. Mary prepared the punch. All three served and the rest of us enjoyed their well prepared labors.

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June 10, 2007

Caleb and I picked up fourteen riders for the “bus” this morning; including two first time visitors. Church attendance started climbing back up this morning after holding steady for the last four weeks. This morning’s message was from 1 Kings 18:17-39 titled “How long halt ye between two opinions?” Several people responded to the invitation seeking assurance of their salvation. One young lady, Jeanne, who has been coming for four weeks responded by accepting Christ as her Savior.

After the services Eric came up to me asking for help in seeking someone to talk with his friend who came for the first time this morning. With Mary being busy with Jeanne, and several others were counseling others, I noticed Kadi was available. So Maï, Eric’s friend, went with Kadi and Eric to talk about her salvation. After their talk she realized her need and in repentance accepted the Lord. (This was the first time Kadi had an opportunity to see someone accept the Lord as a direct result of her testimony. PTL!)

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June 09, 2007

Today was the last day of our Soul-Winning Club for several weeks. The numbers for the last two weeks were five professions of faith and thirty-seven follow up visits. We did some role playing about baptism. With such syncretism throughout this country’s religious communities baptism becomes a very difficult topic to Biblically discuss, as everyone has their personal opinions and practices. So with the intent of forming Biblically sound Baptist pastors/missionaries/lay persons, we dove right into this controversy. :-(

Tonight our daughter Rebekah Jane Joyce graduated from the International School of Ouagadougou. She is our third daughter to graduate from this school. The ceremonies were held at a very nice downtown hotel with the reception following. Mary and I were extremely proud this evening as we watched Beka complete her fourth year at the school. (She is the first of our children to actually attend the same high school for all four years.) Being one of eight graduates with a total of five different countries represented by these graduates continues to strengthen her multicultural background. She received the Presidential Excellence in Education Award, having maintained an A or A- throughout her four years in high school. We could not have been more proud of her.

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June 08, 2007

On the last day of this year’s Institute we “talked” about the pass, the present and the future. We “talked” about their concerns about the Institute and the future of the Institute. We “talked” about how to make the Institute a better institution. It was a good time to fellowship around our common interests.

I had the students write down their likes, dislikes and what things they would like to see changed for the coming year. Almost to the person, they all agreed that they need to learn “get along’ better among themselves. (This is a problem that we knew would manifest itself as we grew, especially among those living in the dormitory. Even though this problem was foreseen, we still need to find a suitable solution so that Psalms 133:1 would be a reality among us: “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!”

Another thing written on over half of the papers was the desire to see more accountability with respect to tardiness. Coupled with a desire to see more accountability in their personal conduct fit well into the previous conversation the teachers had about developing a demerit system. (Since our discussion among the teachers for next year, National Pastor/Missionary André BAZIE has been developing a demerit system based upon his personal experiences in Cote d’Ivoire. We hope to have something in place by the start of the new school year.)

To a person all agreed the Bible studies were edifying, encouraging and effective. They are very excited about our increased classroom time next year and also the addition of two new teachers. The future continues to look really exciting for the IBFO.

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June 06, 2007

Continuing with our Biblical studies on Discipleship we arrived at our fifth part in a six part series titled “Various Counsels.” Stressing the importance of discipleship has definitely struck a chord here, as most everyone sees the great benefit of discipleship while at the same time realizing that very little is being done in this scriptural area.

Attendance was again good for our Wednesday evening study. We left time for prayer requests, finishing a little late.

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June 05, 2007

By God’s grace, Mary and I celebrate twenty-five years of marriage today. I thank God every day for the wonderful help-meet He has given me. We could not be here without each other. We could not be where we are today, with six wonderful children, without her fortitude to “endure” the pressures of ministry. Thank you Lord for a great twenty-five years of marriage! May the time You grant us together be as fruitful, and exciting, as these first twenty-five years!

For our chapel services today Franck OUÉDRAOGO preached on the necessity of being faithful to God’s call in the midst of suffering, which comes upon every servant of the Lord. Again, he really reaches the hearts of our students, who greatly respect him and his testimony.

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June 04, 2007

Today we started the last week of Institute studies, as we close out this fourth year. This week we will be fielding questions about next year, overcoming the little conflicts arising from this year, and begin preparations in their hearts about our departure. We are greatly looking forward to having a more personal time this week with the students.

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June 03, 2007

Eight people rode the “bus” route with Caleb and me this morning. (With our soon-to-be departure for our scheduled furlough, we have not sought to increase our riders, as; unfortunately, our “bus” route will be placed on temporary hold.) Attendance in our services was also a little low with our children’s church, but the adults have been remaining steady.

This morning’s message was centered on Matthew 24.12 and titled “How to keep our love from waxing cold.” Several responded to the invitation; one for assurance of her salvation and several others expressing a desire to return to their first love.

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June 02, 2007

Today was a big day for the Fundamental Baptist Church of Boulwando and the Fundamental Baptist Church of Tanghin, as they decided to co-host church services, a baptism, party and soccer match in Boulwando. (Since we needed to hold a baptismal service for Tanghin, and since there is no water near Tanghin with their water reservoir being broken, we realized the best way to have this baptism was to use the facilities in Boulwando.)

Accompanying us, my family and I, were Mike HILLHOUSE, who gracious drove and toted the benches and chalk board for Tanghin, Carissa, eight men from the Institute and one of the church men from Dassasgo.

Our family wanted to go to say “goodbye” to our friends in these works, and Mary had some clothing to give to them. Plus we wanted to full fill Tanghin’s three wishes before our furlough. So with the help of our children, and Carissa, she handed out clothing to the ladies of the churches, as we prepared to engage in a dire battle of soccer supremacy at the local school.

Boulwando versus Tanghin for bragging rights with Boulwando clearly the favorite, having home field advantage. Tanghin came prepared, as was evidenced by a very large contingent who made the trip, by bicycle and foot, to participate in this day’s activities. Boulwando scored first on a slow roller that just squeaked by the goalie. Quickly Tanghin answered back with two back to back goals in a period of two minutes. Boulwando tied it by half-time. The second half was as fast paced as the first with each side swapping goals, before Boulwando scored their fourth and final goal with less than five minutes remaining. Final score: Boulwando 4 and Tanghin 3.

Quickly retiring from the soccer field to the church, we started church services with an overflow crowd; (almost two hundred people present). Ferdinand led the congregational singing. Paul took the offering, and I preached on baptism. (Listening inside the church was very difficult as we were “entertained” by the melodious music coming from the broken metal tin roof which has blown apart because of strong winds a few weeks ago. It was a very distracting noise and one that needs to be remedied soon.)

Dominike mentioned his baptistery was broken and we needed to use another facility. I had thought we would use our original facility at the local school. As we were making our way to this new site, I was quickly informed that we would be using another location. We continued walking towards a little pond of water that was shaped like a winding river. As more and more people arrived several people in the village insisted that crocodiles lived in these waters. Dominike saw my concerns and in an attempt to alleviate them, stated that it was true there were crocodiles there but God is more powerful than the crocodiles and we could in faith baptize. (Not exactly the encouragement I was seeking at the moment.)

Reluctantly I made my way into the water with Dominike to begin baptizing the men, women and children of both churches. Dominike would baptize those from Boulwando and I would baptize those from Tanghin. During the middle of our baptism and large crowd of people started running for the bend; apparently something had caught their attention, and mine. They quickly returned, but my fears were increased, and I decided to keep my eyes on that bend. I have never been fearful about a baptism before; having baptized in many different and unusual places such as the Pacific Ocean, but today was a first for me. By God’s grace, Dominike baptized six people from Boulwando, including his older brother. I was able to baptize six people from Tanghin, including the wife of Denis and the Naba’s son.

After our baptism experiences we returned to the church to have a party complete with a meal prepared by the women of the village and completely paid for by the church itself. It was a good meal, as we witnessed most the people staying to fellowship. Unfortunately we still had to visit the Naba in Meguet before returning home. So after “begging the road” we piled into our two vehicles for Meguet. The Naba graciously received us and we bid our farewell’s before heading home and more rendezvous’’ before our furlough departure.

One other thing about this day; during the soccer match, Clement, a young man who was saved in Boulwando almost four years ago, and who was one of the first baptized there, came up to me. Shortly after his baptism he moved into Ouaga and we lost contact with him. Today was first time I saw him in several years. He said he has returned home because he could not make a living in Ouaga. He has remained faithful to the church there since his return. It was very encouraging to see him back home and still serving the Lord at the church.

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May 30, 2007

With only three Wednesday evenings available to us before our departure, we continued to take opportunities to teach on Biblical discipleship. This was the fourth part in a six part series (that was originally designed for a ten part series). It was on the “key to discipleship: follow-up.” Another extended teaching time, because of the scope and depth of this series.

Even with the teaching extended longer than normal attendance on Wednesday nights continues to climb. Several people have already approached me about the value of this series to their lives and ministries.

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May 29, 2007

Today was the last Bible study Rachel had with her junior high girls Bible study. She has been very active with the missionary youth group here and has been assisting as a youth leader and in teaching the junior high girls. The group has been meeting at our house for lunch and the Bible study. Today they included a small party. It was really hard for her to let go of something she has really enjoyed doing.

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May 27, 2007

As Caleb and I continued with the “bus” route we picked up fourteen riders. Attendance in the main auditorium remained steady with thirty-two present. Rachel had over fifty children present for her Junior Church services. There were three first time visitors in our adult service.

I preached this morning on the call of Christ from Matthew 4:18-22. During the invitation three people responded. Two for salvation; Maimounna, a friend of Timothée’s, who has been coming for the last month, accepted the Lord as Mary dealt with her; at the same time, Tayirou, Maimonna’s husband, also repented in receiving Christ as Paul dealt with him. One came forward for her assurance of salvation.

The services were excellent, solidarity was evident, and the spirit was expectant. May God continue to unite this church in complete harmony with His will and with one another!

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May 26, 2007

During the Soul-Winning Club we stressed the importance of discipleship (follow up) with the new converts. We went a little long in the study as we were discussing what makes someone a good friend and then how we can apply these characteristics to our relationships with new Christians.

It was reported there were four professions of faith and another twenty-eight follow up visits.

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May 25, 2007

Our woodworker brought the benches over for the church in Tanghin. With the chalkboard already here we are almost complete in responding to their three urgent requests. June 03, 2007, next Saturday, we will have our baptism for those desiring to follow the Lord in believers’ baptism and unite with the church. Please continue to pray for the Fundamental Baptist Church of Tanghin.

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May 23, 2007

Continuing our Bible study on Biblical discipleship we arrived at the third lesson on the “Cost of Discipleship.” (I am attempting to teach a ten week series in six weeks, as my time is limited and my advance planning needs some work. :-)

Attendance was good, better than a normal Wednesday evening. Franck visited again with us along with his “brother.” Even though we were a little long we still left a little room for prayer requests; mostly for the sick and those in need of being scripturally baptized.

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May 22, 2007

This evening we had a meeting with the teachers for the coming school year for the I.B.F.O. With Missionary Mike HILLHOUSE, Missionary John HALLMAN, National Pastor/Missionary André BAZIE, and me, we talked about the courses for the fifth year. (Missionary Randy SMITH will be returning to Ouaga in July and will also be teaching. He has already been informed of the schedule and courses and has started preparing his lessons for the coming year.)

I felt it was a good meeting and the camaraderie was encouraging; as we seek to form national pastors and missionaries from among the Burkinabé. Expectations are high for the coming year. Please pray for the Institute; the students, the teachers, and the Biblical courses.

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May 21, 2007

National Pastor/Missionary André BAZIE started the last course at the Institute this morning; teaching the History of Christianity II.

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May 20, 2007

With several people still sick and with several others attending funerals this morning we were a little low on the “bus” route with only eight riders. Caleb continues to assist me on the “bus” route. In church we had a good attendance with eighty-six people present. I believe four people were first time visitors.

We used the visit of Franck OUÉDRAOGO, the young man from San Pedro, to have him preach this morning. He started out by stating that this is his very first sermon in Burkina Faso. He preached on the “Church” from Apocalypse 1 – 3. It was a good sermon and chalked full of sound doctrine on the local church. Our people really enjoyed his preaching, and his gracious demeanor.

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May 19, 2007

There was a full house for our evangelism course. Several people were there for the first time visiting someone from our church and Institute. We had five professions of faith reported for the week with another forty follow-up visits.

After the course Ferdinand approached me about becoming a student at the Institute. We have been praying for about a year for this decision, but did not want to approach him or have anyone else “talk” to him about it. We wanted to make sure that it would be his decision and his alone. Since this year is almost over, we will have him start the following school year.

Paul, David, Mike and I went to visit a young man who recently returned to Ouaga from Cote d’Ivoire. Franck was born in Cote d’Ivoire, raised in a Muslim family, moved to San Pedro for work in his late teens, became acquainted with some independent Baptist missionaries, and was converted in his early twenties. He attended a Bible Institute with a couple of Baptist Mid-Mission Missionaries (Steve King and Steve Gault), graduated and started teaching in their Institute. Now he is on his way to Cameroon to help start a Baptist Church in the capital city with Brother Gault. He will then proceed to Holland to continue his ministry. This week he came into Ouaga and called me about “assisting” our services. We were all impressed with him and his testimony.

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May 16, 2007

We studied the second of our six part series on discipleship this evening. Unfortunately I ran a little too long (by twenty minutes) and did not have time for prayer requests. I feel really pressed to get certain things taught before our departure.

Paul, since his new job, running a cyber café, has been having difficulties being faithful for these Wednesday evening Bible studies and prayer meetings. When he started it was okay as there was always someone to replace him for Wednesday evenings. Many times the manager (owner) would come in and replace him, but that has apparently fizzled out. Paul mentioned this week his strong desire to find a replacement; asking this as an urgent prayer request.

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May 14, 2007

National Pastor/Missionary André BAZIE started back again on his Institute courses teaching the History of Christianity I. Immediately after this course he will be terminating this school year with the History of Christianity II. (I will teach the last week with the intention of the expectations for the coming year without us here in the country.)

Dominike stopped by to relate the damage caused by severe winds in Boulwando. Apparently the roof, the entire roof, in our Sunday school classroom was blown off. The wood beams snapped under the wind’s pressure causing the metal sheeting to break away; ripping them in several pieces. He will get an estimate for the repairs and then seek the means to replace the roof before the season’s rain commence in a few more weeks.

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May 13, 2007

The day has arrived: the start of a new work in Tanghin (Somgandé). Since the end of February (2006) when Marcelline arrived at our door asking to come to church, we have determined to start a church in this neighborhood of Ouagadougou. Then with the arrival of Missionaries Mike and Pam HILLHOUSE and their desire to start independent Baptist churches it was a natural fit to assist them in starting a work here in Somgandé. Several months ago we decided to split the bus routes with a desire to see the HILLHOUSE’s develop relationships with the people coming from this neighborhood. It was a great plan as they developed good relationships and even built new ones. Please read more about this new work on their web site (http://bbfi-africa.org/Hillhouse/  ) and blog (http://hillhousefamily.blogspot.com/ ).

Caleb and I ran the “bus” route this morning, picking up twelve riders. Attendance was lower in Dassasgo since several were now assisting the new work in Somgandé. Still we had a good attendance with Paul preaching on Jesus Christ. During the invitation, a new visitor who came with Timothée accepted the Lord as his personal Lord and Savoir.

On the way home Mary sensed something was not right with Germane, as she had been extremely quiet throughout the day. Mary told her she was available to “talk” with her if she so desired. This afternoon Germane came by the house seeking to “talk” with Mary. She is discouraged about her marital and financial circumstances. She has experienced a lot of troubles before and after her salvation, yet she has remained faithful to the Lord. She continues to seek by all means possible income to provide for her and her three small children; selling whatever she can on the street. She is in great need of prayer. Please pray for her and her difficult situation.

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May 12, 2007

With the start of the new work in Tanghin (Somgandé) the Soul Winning Club met and reported on this week’s activities and then proceeded to Somgandé where the group along with the people there handed out 400 tracts in anticipation of a great first day tomorrow. Anticipation is high with excitement as our people are participating in helping another new church get born here in the Ouaga area.

For the week it was reported that four people responded to the gospel call and another nineteen recent converts were followed up.

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May 09, 2007

Tonight I started teaching on discipleship. In anticipation of our soon to be furlough I have decided to preach and teach as much as possible. For almost a year I have been anticipating what exactly I would like to leave with our people; those things I would like to see develop in them while I am in the States. One thing kept coming to the forefront: discipleship. With so many recent converts and so little knowledge of discipleship I have felt a strong desire to teach this topic for the next six weeks.

I am excited about this series, being saved in the military through the witness of my co-worker and the ministry of the Navigators; I have been blessed to have benefited from their intent on discipleship. Their ministry of discipleship has been an invaluable blessing to my new life in Christ and continues to bless me even today. I would really, really, really like to develop a discipleship program among our people that will benefit them in the same manner that I was blessed. Please pray for this short series.

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May 08, 2007

Timothée concluded his Institute course on the “History of Burkina Faso” this morning. It was a small course designed to instill in our students a deep appreciation of their heritage as Burkinabé. It was encouraging to hear several students express a gratitude for this course, even indicating they had learned some new “facts” about their country and heritage. As usual, they also conveyed their contentment in having Timothée as their teacher for this course.

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May 06, 2007

This morning was the final “bus” for the north part of our routes, as next week the Hillhouse’s will be holding their first services in Tanghin. (Please pray for their first services and the start of this new work in Ouaga.) We had a total of twenty-seven “bus” riders this morning.

With Dominike in town for the ordination, he preached in Dassasgo on Salvation from Ephesians 2:2-10. It was a good message and one well delivered. He preached in Mooré and Douninoma translated into French. Attendance was a little low. Beka’s Ladies Chorale sang their last song this morning under her leadership. David will be assuming these responsibilities in the near future. Nestor also led singing for the first time, doing a decent job.

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May 05, 2007

National Pastor/Missionary André BAZIE ordained Joël BAZIE into the gospel at the Fundamental Baptist Church of Pong. We were invited to help in the celebration of this very important event. Rising up early to leave by 6 AM we assembled at Missionary Mike HILLHOUSE’s house to make the trip to Koudougou with a car load of our students.

Brother André had a great program planned and followed it almost to the letter. It was well organized and an exciting time for our students to witness the ordination of one of the first national Burkinabé pastors. An added bonus for us, (Mike, myself and our students), was the opportunity to fellowship with several of the other independent Baptist missionaries, including Jeff BASSETT, a BIMI missionary, who discipled and taught André in their Bible Institute in Cote d’Ivoire before his return home over twelve years ago.

We returned home by 4 PM, just in time for Paul to return to work. All agreed it was a great time of food, fellowship and good preaching.

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May 02, 2007

Timothée concluded his Bible study on Jude by teaching on verses 17-25 emphasizing again the spiritual combat we face on a daily basis as Christians; a very good study.

Rebekah taught the Ladies Choral for the last time tonight. They are preparing for a special this coming week. She will be handing over the reigns to David and assisting him in the next few weeks before her graduation from ISO.

Both before and after the services, everyone talked about how tired and sore they were from yesterday’s events. Three soccer games in this heat will take its toll on anyone. :-) No one regretted being sore, as yesterday’s events were well worth today’s pain.

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May 01, 2007

Today the Fundamental Baptist Church of Dassasgo hosted a soccer tournament, inviting four other teams to participate. The International School of Ouagadougou was gracious enough to allow us the use of their soccer fields for this tournament. The participating teams were the Fundamental Baptist Institute of Ouagadougou, New Life Baptist Church of Tensouka (Missionary John and Tammy Cooley - http://bbfi-africa.org/Cooley/ ), Fundamental Baptist Church of Ouidi (Missionary John and Denise Hallman - http://www.howshalltheybelieve.org/ ), Fundamental Baptist Church of Tengandogo (Missionary Keith and Rebecca Shumaker - http://www.theharvest.net/ ), and the host church. After each team played two games the teams were then paired in the finals. Playing for third place Tengandogo easily beat IBFO 7 – 1. For the championship, Ouidi outlasted Tensouka to win first place by a score of 2 -1. After the hard fought matches, the churches moved over to Dassasgo to enjoy good fellowship over a very good meal prepared by the women of Dassasgo.

We want to specially thank the Fundamental Baptist Church of Dassasgo for hosting this tournament, and providing for the meal. Paul took charge of the organization of this event, from the invitations, promotions and planning of the meal. Ghislain was a great “commissaire du match” overseeing each game, making sure the game officials were present and doing a good job, and recording the results of each game. Mike and I, as well as the other missionaries, spent several hours acting as chauffeurs for our people. A special thanks to Mary, for running the entire days events smoothly, making sure each facet of the day was in operation and on time.

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April 30, 2007

Timothée KABORÉ started his course on the History of Burkina Faso this morning at the Institute. (With Missionary André BAZIE having commitments with his missions work in Pong, it was decided to allow Timothée to teach these next two weeks, before he returns to complete his course on Church History.)

In the afternoon Mike and I met with those students involved in the planning of the soccer tournament tomorrow. Since tomorrow is a national holiday and ISO has graciously allowed us the use of their soccer fields, we have decided to invite various other independent Baptist churches to participate in a soccer match with food and fellowship to follow. Our goal is to encourage each participating church with a time of fun and fellowship; hoping that our people we understand that there are more independent Baptist churches who have the same doctrine, desires, and devotion to the Lord. It was a good meeting and many things were solidified with respect to the soccer matches. We all walked away in great anticipation of tomorrow’s events.

As we arrived for the meeting one man, Sylverain, was there waiting for the “pastor.” He came by the church, saw the sign, and decided to seek counsel and help from this church. Paul talked with him after the meeting, reminding him of his greatest need; Jesus Christ. God touched Sylverain’s heart and he, in repenting of his sins, received the Lord as his Savior. Praise the Lord!

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April 29, 2007

Mike continues to hold steady on his “bus” route with seventeen riders coming from Tanghin. They will have one more week before they start the church in Tanghin; the 13th of May being the first service. We had ten riders on our route for a total of twenty-seven riders for the “buses” this morning.

With our soon departure for our furlough I am taking more time in the pulpit, preaching this morning on the “Sounding Trumpet” from Numbers 10:1-10. I had preached this message in our church in the States and thought that it was a “normal” forty-five minute message. After concluding the first of four points in my outline I realized that it would not be possible to continue, time wise, and concluded the message after the first point.

(After the services I was thinking back on the message and where the problem was. Realizing we do translate into Mooré, accounted for some of the lost time, but not near enough to cause this “problem.” Then I realized in English I quote a large portion of the Scriptures used in my messages. Unfortunately I do not have that luxury in French and am forced to read many, if not most, of the verses. Somehow I must find a way to memorize more verses in French without losing the verses in English.

All in all, the services were good, attendance was good, and attitudes were good. Thank you, Lord!

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April 28, 2007

With May 01, 2007 fast approaching, (the day of our soccer tournament), we decided to continue to iron out the days activities and to head off potential problems. It was a longer than normal discussion and one that produced a variety of opinions from the game set-up, food, and responsibilities. We walked away eagerly anticipating a great time of fellowship with several of our sister churches in the Ouaga area.

We still wanted to have the reports in for this week’s soul-winning efforts. Four people made a profession of faith and another twenty-seven were followed up.

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April 28, 2007

Timothée, in teaching on Jude, decided to visit Genesis and the life of Abraham and Lot; illustrations used in Jude. He stressed the importance of faith in the face of opposition even from family and friends. As has been his habit, his teaching is very good. His ability to communicate is obvious and his gracious spirit is evident in his comportment. (He has made tremendous progress since we first met him four years ago. The grace of God has a tremendous ability to change us; little by little.)

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April 22, 2007

Thirty-five people rode the “buses” this morning, with nineteen coming from Tanghin with Mike. Attendance was good in the services; especially Rachel’s junior church who had over ninety children present.

I preached this morning on the “Cross of Christ” from John 19. Paul translated into Mooré. There were no professions of faith this morning.

After the services Timothée, in his profession as a nurse, looked at the daughter of Germane, who began to have a very high temperature. Mary, Germane and Marcelline continued to run water over her body. He prescribed some medication, which was bought on the way home on the “bus” route. Please pray for Germane and her daughter.

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April 21, 2007

We remain steady in our attendance with the twelve people that signed up for the thirteen week soul-winning course. As was reported, six people made professions of faith and another twenty-three people were followed up.

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April 19, 2007

As Mary and Cecile continued their weekly soul winning, they visited with Albertine and her husband, Tilade. During the course of the conversation, Tilade responded to the gospel and received Christ as his Savoir. He said he would come to our church services next week.

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April 18, 2007

Timothée continued his study on Jude with the same enthusiasm as last week. He demonstrated again his spiritual gift of teaching. Tonight he really made an effort to leave time for group prayer. He took charge and ran the prayer requests smoothly and efficiently.

Beka resumed her Ladies Chorale with ten ladies present. She is in the process of praying for her replacement, as we have a couple of more months before our furlough.

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April 17, 2007

This morning Missionary Randy SMITH preached the chapel at the Fundamental Baptist Institute of Ouagadougou. His preaching emphasized the necessity of reaching children with the gospel of Christ and then discipling them when they are young. (It was easy to tell his heart is turned toward children.) Our students really appreciated his humility and his heartfelt compassion for the Burkinabé.

Tonight Brother SMITH will be flying home to Kansas before returning to Burkina in June. Please pray for Randy and Tonya SMITH and their four children as they begin their ministry here in Burkina Faso.

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April 16, 2007

Missionary John Hallman resumed the Institute this morning, continuing his study on the Pauline Epistles.

Madi came over this morning with two friends, desiring to explain his absence Sunday. One of his family members died and he was required to attend the funeral. He had two visitors ready to come with us, but unfortunately they were “intimidated” when we arrived to pick them up and said nothing of their plans to come with us. They were there with Madi this morning indicating a desire to come this coming Sunday.

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April 15, 2007

We’ve been having a “slow” leak from our radiator for several days. I thought that maybe it was the radiator cap and hoped to make it through this morning’s activities before having the mechanic “fix” it Monday. Unfortunately as I was adding more water to the radiator, I noticed the leak. Apparently our water pump is out and is beginning to leak like a broken faucet. Mike was already on his leg of the “bus” route when I called him asking for assistance to pick up a few from our side of the route. (It is such a blessing to have the Hillhouse’s here to help us out of various situations. They always have a ready and willing spirit and have been such a great benefit to us and the ministry here.)

We basically ran one leg of the “bus” route this morning, even though we tried to run the East and West end late, much later than normal. Therefore we only had sixteen riders this morning. Attendance was good, as it has been holding steady; averaging around 100 for our services. Mike preached this morning on Suffering. His message was great, as usual, and his French was more than sufficient. He is ready! One person responded to the invitation in seeking assurance of his salvation.

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April 14, 2007

We had twelve people present for our Soul-Winning Club. Five people made professions of faith and another thirty-eight people were revisited during follow-up. This morning several of the students participated in the teaching; each one teaching a particular aspect of the lesson. (It is a good way to gage their comprehension of the Bible study when they have to turn around and re-teach it.)

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April 11, 2007

Timothée KABORÉ, our part-time student at the Institute began a four week series on the book of Jude. This is his first opportunity to teach a series. (He has been teaching a little in the Institute as a fill-in when someone was absent.) His preparation, his delivery and his style was readily agreeable with the audience. He used personal illustrations, illustrations from the Bible and illustrations from everyday Burkina life. He used humor. He used direct language and effective gestures. We could tell by the reactions of the listeners that he was getting the message through. It was a very good Bible study. He will be a great asset to the Institute when he begins teaching full time in the future.

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April 09, 2007

The Institute Baptiste Fondamental à Ouagadougou (I.B.F.O.) started their spring break this morning. They will have the week off before returning next Monday to complete the course on the Pauline Epistles with Missionary John Hallman.

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April 09, 2007

With today being a national holiday, we decided to hold Easter services at the Fundamental Baptist Church of Boulwando and at the Fundamental Baptist Church of Tanghin. Mary and I decided to drive out in faith with our vehicle :-( and the HILLHOUSE’s also drove their vehicle, giving us an opportunity to take several people with us. It was a special blessing to have Missionary Randy SMITH visiting for these two weeks and he preached both the services. We also took as many of our Institute students as possible with Paul, David, Eric, Denis, Douninoma and Augustin helping in the services. It was also a great blessing to have Ferdinand, who came into Ouaga for our Easter services, come to help us.

Arriving at Boulwando a little late, but before the services, Mary, Pam and Eric visited with Dominike’s grandmother who has been very sick. She did not look good and could not communicate, being paralyzed on one side of her body. They also had the opportunity by chance to see the former Naba of our neighborhood, who because of his personal problems lost his authority. Mary also said he looked very ill. Both of these people covet your prayers for their health and spiritual needs.

The attendance in church continued to climb to where we had about 140 people in our services. Every time we visit with this young church we are amazed and encouraged to see many of the people who came to the first service almost four years ago; Yembi, David, Yamba, their wives and several others always seem to be faithful. Dominike has been working hard at being their pastor, and his prayers and efforts are paying off. The Naba of the village came and actually sat in the services with us; a first.

David KORGO led the congregational singing. Denis BAZIE took the offering. Brother SMITH preached on the resurrection with Dominike translating into Mooré. The services went well, the preaching was great in exalting the Lord Jesus Christ, and the fellowship was warm and encouraging.

We quickly headed to Tanghin, about a half hour south, where Paul, Douninoma, and Ferdinand had already started the services. We arrived to a very packed “hangar” filled with anticipation. We had between sixty and seventy people in the services and it was also a blessing to see the Naba sitting in the services. It would not have been possible to get any more into this small “hangar.” Brother Smith preached on John 14 stressing the necessity of Christ for salvation. During the invitation four people responded with three accepting the Lord and one gaining the assurance of her salvation.

We felt it necessary to have a different type of invitation than what we have been accustomed to here. After seeing several familiar faces who had been in our first services and realizing that many of them had not responded, we asked those who had listened and listened and listened and … without ever responding to ask themselves why they have not responded yet consistently want to hear the gospel call week after week. Was it family, friends, fear … that is keeping them from turning to Christ? We asked them to forget what others might think, to realize that turning to Christ is a personal decision and one that is absolutely necessary, and to realize that only Christ can give them hope. If they were really, really, really interested in turning to Christ they should take that step in coming down to us and take a hand of one of the young pastors who will show them how to be saved. One older lady arose and came to the front of the “hangar” to take a hand realizing her only hope is in Christ. Then another older lady arose taking a hand. Then a younger lady came forward. Finally after a little pause an older man, who assisted in the first three services, came forward taking the hand of Eric indicating his desire to turn to Christ. God indeed blessed this service.

Paul took the opportunity between our services to talk with the “elders” of the village and with those who have been faithful to the services in Tanghin. They had three requests for us. The first was to find some benches for the services. (Today the Naba allowed us to use the benches from the local school.) Without benches they are forced to sit on the dirt floor or stand. The second thing they really needed was for us to hold a baptism service as several of the new converts want to follow the Lord in believers’ baptism and join the church officially. The final thing requested was an opportunity for someone to teach them how to read and write Mooré so they could read the Bible for themselves. It was encouraging to see their desire to serve the Lord and to grow in grace. We hope to have these needs met within the next month. Please pray about these needs with us.

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April 08, 2007

There were twenty-nine “bus” riders this morning for our Easter services; only two first time visitors with several regulars missing. Mike continues to pick up the riders in Tanghin, developing a deeper relationship with them in preparation for his church start next month. Missionary Randy SMITH helped me in the south and west routes.

We had the best attendance ever with over 150 people present for the services. Missionary Randy SMITH preached this morning’s message on the Resurrection of Christ. Several responded to the invitation in seeking assurances for their salvation and one responded with a desire to grow in grace after living for a season in the desert.

Rachel was again busting at the seams in her little room, having over ninety children present. She spent many hours preparing Easter eggs for the children and many more hours preparing an Easter message for the children’s church. Both paid off as God blessed her efforts.

All in all, it was a great Easter Service at the Fundamental Baptist Church of Dassasgo.

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April 07, 2007

Thirteen people were present for the Soul-Winning Club this morning. We had three professions of faith this week with another thirty-one follow up visits.

After the services we determined to search for Louise, one of the young ladies who returned to Ouaga but did not move into her sister’s house. It was amazing that we found her on the first visit, visiting with her sister. (The Lord is good!) She seemed tired, sad and someone indifferent. I happened to have her baptism pictures when she was baptized months ago. In those pictures she was smiling from ear to ear and seemed genuinely happy and excited about her life. I asked her where her smile went, as it was apparent her life had taken a different path since her baptism. With Easter being tomorrow, she did say she would be in church. Please pray for Louise and her spiritual growth. Life is extremely difficult for young, single ladies here.

We also took the time to visit Madi. He was not home but this afternoon he came to our house excited that we had visited him. I mentioned to him about our special services tomorrow for Easter with a new missionary speaking. He was excited and eagerly said he would come. He is also in need of prayer, as he has stagnated in his spiritual growth after starting so strong.

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April 04, 2007

Augustin concluded his four week series on Philemon tonight. Beka put the finishing touches on her Ladies Chorale for the Easter services coming up this weekend.

Missionary Mike and I went to the airport to pick up a new missionary, Randy Smith, who came to Burkina for a visit. He and his wife, Tonya, who were missionaries in the Ivory Coast, have felt the desire to come to Burkina to continue their ministry here among the Burkinabe. It is very encouraging to see more missionaries coming to this very needy area of the world. Oh! How we need multitudes upon multitudes more to surrender to come here!!!! Please pray for this family; for God’s direction and blessings upon them and their ministry as they commence here.

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April 02, 2007

Missionary John Hallman, (http://www.howshalltheybelieve.org/ ), started teaching a course on the Pauline Epistles at the Institute this morning. It is indeed a blessing to have him take his time to help us equip and edify our students; especially given the fact that he has an extremely busy schedule.

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April 01, 2007

We had a low day on the “buses” with only eighteen people riding to church. Paul preached this morning on the Return of Christ. He is developing into a good preacher with good content and a good delivery. One young man who has been coming for several weeks responded to the invitation for salvation. Blaise, in spite of his friends sitting next to him, decided he really needed to respond this morning and in repenting of his sins received the Lord as his personal Savior. Praise the Lord!

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