August 2010 Zimpeto Bible School Update

"We are so grateful to Iris Ministries Canada and all the generous donations that make the ministry of the bible school in Zimpeto possible. There are so many pastors in Mozambique who have never had the privilege of receiving any formal training; they just know a few scriptures and use them repeatedly. These pastors are amazed at those who have come to our bible school and have then returned to their villages with much knowledge and biblical insight, gained through the training and equipping that we are able to offer. Without proper training there is much error, including traditional beliefs being mixed in with the gospel to produce many synergistic beliefs. Bible school training is essential in providing a solid foundation for the growing church in Mozambique.

"At the end of a recent term we baptized many of the students in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. It is always a thrill to lead them in this step of obedience and we rejoice with them.  

[Baptism in the Indian Ocean]

[A time of great rejoicing!]     

"The following day the baptism was graduation day; always a great celebration! We sing, dance and praise God for his goodness and faithfulness to us. We provide the students with some cake and refreshments and then pray for them as they receive their certificates. We send each of them home with a large bag of rice and some clothing as a way of blessing them and their families.  

[Dancing at the graduation celebration]

[Prayer time during graduation celebration]        

"Over the past few years we have steadily worked to bring much improvement to the student’s dorm. The work must be done between the bible school sessions, so it has taken time to finish this project. At long last the final stage has been completed and the dorm has now received a refurbished bathroom, painted walls, new sheets and blankets, and last but not least, some beautiful curtains to provide much needed privacy for the students. The curtains were made by the girls sewing project (headed up by Canadian Betty Blanchette, who has been teaching the girls sewing skills). What a blessing this is for the students."

[The remodelled dorm room]