Sunday, July 15, 2012
activities included in training
Besides classes in the classroom, the students are given opportunities to grow in various aspects of life. Here are some of the extra activities included in the training:
Fasting Prayer
On each last Friday of the month, all the students and staff spend the whole day in prayer and fasting. Indeed, some of the students fast for 40 days, having one light meal in the evening while continuing classes. It has been really encouraging to see the students growing in intimacy with the Lord Jesus, and not only in the academic exercises. In this way, they maintain both mind and spirit during the training.
Bible Reading
As per the requirement of the training centre, the students complete a reading of the entire Bible from cover to cover at least once during the training session. As the training centre is named the Bible Training Centre, we try to prioritize and help students learn the Bible more than any other subject. Of course, we include other subjects, such as the Major Religions, Church History, Leadership, strategies of church planting, pastoral care, effective preaching, and so on. We are glad that all our students did complete the reading of the entire Bible at least once within the given time, and some of them read it twice.
Blood Donation
As seen in the picture above, two students of the HBTC and the principal donated blood in a campaign initiated by Itram Christian Church on National Democratic Day (19 February). The blood donation campaign was held in partnership with Nepal Red Cross Society and it was our pleasure that HBTC also could take part in it.
Bible Verse memorization
The students are encouraged and required to memorize selected verses. The students need to memorize about 100 verses of the Bible during this five months. We believe the memorization of Scripture helps on many occasions.
Outreach experience
As in previous batches, the students of this session were sent for outreach experience for two weeks (May 20- June 1) to four different places of Surkhet and Dailekh districts. The first group comprised four members and the cook and went to Battichour (Surkhet) and Khadgawada (Dailekh). This group managed to start a new fellowship group at Khadgawada with 6 new believers. Let us pray that they would grow in their faith in the future.
Another group was sent to help the newly planted Baptist church in Birendranagar. They participated in the city sanitation campaign as well, and shared the good news to many people, with one man starting to attend church. The third and the fourth group were sent to help the church in Malarani and also Smarna church in Birendranagar. Altogether more than 2,000 Gospel tracts were distributed, and they shared the Good news with the help of singing and testimony. Altogether 150 New Testaments were distributed and 9 people believed in the Lord.
Meanwhile, HBTC national director Dil reports from his recent work in Bhutan, for many years a closed and hard to reach nation.
Jaimashih. I am still in Thimphu Bhutan training 25 grassroots church planters. I am glad that I could have email access here in Thimphu as well.
I have requested pastor Suresh, the principal and pastor Yam, the director to communicate with you now on, so that we all would grow in communication skills and also in leadership. However, I will be available, whenever it is needed. It has been my prayer and effort to get my colleagues to grow in every aspect of life and ministry, so that this work would continue even if I am gone one day. Thank you once again for all you have been doing. In His harvest, Dil, Thimphu, Bhutan.
Next month, we have news of the successful graduation ceremony for this session. Meanwhile, please pray for the upcoming 12th session beginning July 16, 2012. 'Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful...that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ' (Colossians 4:2-3)
Yours in Him, Rod.
Sunday, May 13, 2012
11th session Student individual biography
1. Name: Mr. Rajendra Rana Magar
Age : 28 yrs
Church : Bethel Church, Surkhet
Address: Sahartara V.D.C.-7 Tuppatara, Dolpa District
Midwest region, Nepal.
Conversion story
My name is Rajendra Rana Magar. I come from the remote Dolpa District in Karnali zone. I was born and brought up in a strong Buddhist family. I could complete the study of class five only at a local primary school and went to the District headquarters to continue my school education. However, I could not continue my studies, because of the poverty of my parents. I was disappointed a bit and left my home and came to Surkhet hoping to find a job. I was hunting for job and could not find one. In order to survive, I joined a hard working labor team. While working at one house, the landlord cared for me so much and I was really impressed by him. And he took me one day to the church. I liked it and accepted Jesus Christ as the LORD in my life and have continued to go to that church. My wife also accepted Jesus and went to the church. Later the church appointed me to work in a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center. The church decided to send me to this training centre to be better equipped for the future ministry and the pastor wants to send me to serve the Lord in my village back in Dolpa District after this training. Thank you for your prayers for us and will appreciate your special prayers for me as I plan to go back home in Dolpa at Tibetan border after the completion of the training and plant the churches there which is not easy.
2. Name: Ram Bhadur B K
Age : 34 yrs
Church : Bethel Church, Salghari Surkhet
Address: Lekhparajul V.D.C.- 1 Salghari Surkhet district
Midwest region, Nepal
Conversion story
My family lives on the bank of the Bheri river. They were all Hindus. Because of poverty I could not continue school education after the eighth grade. I needed to work, so I went to India and spend four years in Hariyana. I came back to join the Maoist Army during the Peoples War. I served five years in their army before returning to India as a laborer. Because of my father becoming very ill, I returned to Nepal. My father was completely healed when he went to a church and after that I believed in Jesus as LORD in my life. Now my whole family, including my wife, have accepted Jesus and go to church. Although our family life is up and down because of poverty we continue to go to church. My church sent me to this training in HBTC. After this training I want to serve in Salghari village on the bank of the Bheri river.
3. Name: Durga Bahadur Pun Magar
Age : 31 yrs
Church : Itram Christya Church, Surkhet
Address : Khadkawada V.D.C.- 8 Deugau Dailekh District
Mid- west region, Nepal
Conversion story
I come from the remote district of Dailekh. My family are Magar, living a simple agricultural life on a hillside. My parents work in the fields. I was not able to pass my school education so I went to India and searched for work but could not earn enough money. I returned to my village. Through a manpower agency I was able to go to Malaysia and work at a furniture company. While in Malaysia I heard my wife back in my village was suffering from a disease. I was also sick with a skin tumor. Due to all this I felt very sad. In September 2007 my friend brought me to a church in Malaysia. There I learned about Jesus and continued to go to church. I liked it and accepted Jesus as LORD in my life. In my village there is no church. I want to start a church in Khadkawada V.D.C. after this training. Please pray for me.
4. Name: Kabita Roka
Age :23 yrs
Church : Smarna Church,Latikoili Surkhet
Address : Latikoili V.D.C.- 9 Budabudi Surkhet district Mid- west region, Nepal
Conversion story
I am Kabita. I was born and brought up in West Bangal, India, in a Hindu background. I came from a poor family and was not able to recieve a good education. I could not continue my education past grade 10. At the age of 15 I found work in an office as a laborer. I had no peace in my heart and because of my anxiety I worshipped many gods. This did not satisfy my heart so after that I left behind all my Hindu customs. My friend was Christian her Younger sister called to me church. When I went their pastor preached parable of seed I like it and accept Jesus as LORD. After that I continued to go to church. . Nowadays I am a Sunday school teacher and leader of my church. Now my pastor sent me to this training .After this training I want to start orphaned to care who were helpless children.
5. Name: Janaki Gagatraj
Age : 30 yrs
Church : Smarna Church,Latikoili Surkhet
Address : Jarbuta V.D.C.- 1 Barrakuna Dhulabit Surkhet District
Mid- west region, Nepal
Conversion story
My name is Janaki I am come from remote area of Surkhet District. My family background is Hindu I born and brought up at same customs. In My school when I was seven class got marriage. I left my fathers house and went at surkhet .I have suffer as stomach problem's visit so many doctor but could not healed. My nice is Christian she called to me church. When I went to Church after prayer slowly I was healed. I continued to go to church my church sent me to this training. After this training I want to serve with my church women group in my village. Please pray for me.
6. Name : Pream Nepali
Age: 28 yrs
Church L Living BaptistI Church, Itaram Surkhet
Address : Birendranagar Municipality- 8,
Surkhet District, Mid-west region, Nepal
Conversion story
I am come from Dailekh District. My family background is Hindu at the age of child I could involve ritual thing. Be cause of my friend I involve bad company. I joined moust war as a youth force I serve four years their and because of my sickness stay at home. When I went hospital but doctor say that my liver is damage. They send back to my home I have no hope in my life. I came back to my house and count my days. When my elder brother visits me he sends to Church. When church people preyed I was hilled and I believed Jesus as LORD in my life. I marriage with Chhaya and went India and spend in their as a worker at Himanchal. We start gospel preaching and start a new church now this church is running .I appointed one local leader in this church and come back to Nepal my church sent me to this training. After this training I want to serve with my church. Please pray for me.
7. Name: Chhaya Nepali
Age : 28 yrs
Church : Living Baptist Church, Itaram Surkhet
Address : Birendranagar Municipality- 8,
Surkhet District, Mid-west region, Nepal
Conversion story
I am Chhaya I come from Chisapani Surkhet. My family background is Hindu I brought up at same custom was suffer from a sickness at the childhood. Because of illness I could not continue school education more then eight. at that time one Christian ladies come to my house and share about Jesus healed your prob.lem After that I went Church. When Church people prey for me I was completely hilled after that I believed Jesus as LORD in my life. I marriage with pream and went India and spend in their as a worker at Himanchal. We start gospel preaching and start a new church now this church is running .I come back to India my church sent me to this training. After this training I want to serve with my church. Please pray for me.
8. Name: Karna Bhadur Kharu
Age : 18 yrs
Church : Mahima Joti Church,Neta Surkhet
Address: Neta V.D.C.- 7 Pude pamka Surkhet District
Mid- west region, Nepal
Conversion story
My name is Karna I am come from remote area of surkhet District. My family background is Hindut I born and brought up at same customs. I ````````` was suffer from a sickness at the childhood. Because of like paralyze I could not move always lay down in bade. My father admit me to local hospital they referred to me big hospital. I went there but did not improve. I came back to my house and went to church. When I started to go to church my life is slowly began to recover! I went to school, but because of my sickness I could not pass the School education more then eight. Because of poverty I could not continue my study. My whole family accepted Jesus and went to church. My church sent me to this training. After this training I want to serve in my village church. Please pray for me.
9. Name: Suman Pun Magar
Age : 21yrs
Church : Bethel Church,Dah Malarani
Address : Malarani V.D.C.-5 Tusharepani Surkhet district, Mid- west region, Nepal
Conversion story
I am come from Magar orthodux Hindu trivet. Because of poverty my family environment is not good. At the age of 19 because of my friends I went to the church after that I believed Jesus as LORD in my life. But my family could not accept me as a Christian because of that my life is bitter they reject me. I continue to go to church and learn more about Jesus, I am a single believer of my family. My life is up and down but I continue to go to church. My church sent me to this training. After this training I want to serve in my village church.
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Dear supporter,
This month we consider the outcome of an important board meeting of the college. They were considering the proposal to extend the training from 5 months to 1 year, and discussed the questions you kindly raised, as we seek together the will of our Lord for this work. Kathmandu director Dil Bahadur shares:
Honourable Dr. Rod, and the friends/partners in the UK,
Greetings from Nepal.
First of all, let me express our collective thankfulness for your love, prayers and partnership with us in training, equipping and empowering the Nepalese grass roots leaders. Thank you also for your kind patience in hearing from me in regard to the extension of the course from five months to a year programme. I am glad to inform you that I attended the local board meeting of the training centre in Surkhet on Monday 27th February, and thank God for the way the Lord has been using us for His glory.
Let me now share with you what we discussed in the meeting and request you for your prayers and suggestions concerning it.
The reasons for extending the course from five month into a year programme:
1. A felt need for a longer period to prepare students to LEAD their congregations.
So far, none of the graduates of Surkhet have gone on for further studies after graduating from the five month residential leadership training. In five months, the training centre is limited in its ability to go deeper into study of subjects on the curriculum. Of course, there are many areas that a leader has to learn about. So, the one year program could include some more subjects and could also offer a deeper study.
2. Vocational skill development training along with the biblical training.
In many situations, in the rural context, the local congregation is not able to pay the pastor for his service. If he/she gets a job to pay for his bread, he usually has to go outside his village. But the leader of the congregation cannot leave his home if his flock is to grow, needing his care and nourishment spiritually. Therefore, if he/she can get some vocational skill development training along with the biblical training, he will not have to leave the family and the church for survival.
3. Other short term training centres exist now in the Midwest and far west Nepal.
I am glad to inform you that there are other short term training centres established in these two regions which could meet the need for five month training for grassroots leaders. Those who could not come for a year program, can access training elsewhere. So, it would be more practical and needful to upgrade our training centre into a year program.
Course design (Draft)
1. Thorough Biblical studies : 5 months
2. Vocational/ Skill development training : 3 months
3. Training on Evangelism, Church planting and missions : 1 month
4. Internship/field experience in their own churches : 1 month (Return back to the training centre for one more month)
5. Leadership skills: 1 month (Graduation after 11 months)
Total duration 11 months. (One month gap for preparation for the next session)
I would appreciate your ideas and input in this regard, as this is only a draft proposal. Thanking you, Dil, Nepal.
Any thoughts or suggestions reading this would be gratefully received. Thanks for continuing to pray to the Good Shepherd to continue to lead us into green pastures.
Since this board meeting, you may have heard that our board chairman pastor Padam Nepali was attacked by thugs on a motorbike on waste ground near his home in Surkhet. He was apparently knocked unconscious but is recovering at home. He is said to believe that they were intending to kill him for his Christian witness, so he is rejoicing and praising God he is alive. I have emailed a message of sympathy to Padam on our behalf. Please pray for him to be safe, for his body to be healed, and for his family.
Yours in Him, Rod.
This month we consider the outcome of an important board meeting of the college. They were considering the proposal to extend the training from 5 months to 1 year, and discussed the questions you kindly raised, as we seek together the will of our Lord for this work. Kathmandu director Dil Bahadur shares:
Honourable Dr. Rod, and the friends/partners in the UK,
Greetings from Nepal.
First of all, let me express our collective thankfulness for your love, prayers and partnership with us in training, equipping and empowering the Nepalese grass roots leaders. Thank you also for your kind patience in hearing from me in regard to the extension of the course from five months to a year programme. I am glad to inform you that I attended the local board meeting of the training centre in Surkhet on Monday 27th February, and thank God for the way the Lord has been using us for His glory.
Let me now share with you what we discussed in the meeting and request you for your prayers and suggestions concerning it.
The reasons for extending the course from five month into a year programme:
1. A felt need for a longer period to prepare students to LEAD their congregations.
So far, none of the graduates of Surkhet have gone on for further studies after graduating from the five month residential leadership training. In five months, the training centre is limited in its ability to go deeper into study of subjects on the curriculum. Of course, there are many areas that a leader has to learn about. So, the one year program could include some more subjects and could also offer a deeper study.
2. Vocational skill development training along with the biblical training.
In many situations, in the rural context, the local congregation is not able to pay the pastor for his service. If he/she gets a job to pay for his bread, he usually has to go outside his village. But the leader of the congregation cannot leave his home if his flock is to grow, needing his care and nourishment spiritually. Therefore, if he/she can get some vocational skill development training along with the biblical training, he will not have to leave the family and the church for survival.
3. Other short term training centres exist now in the Midwest and far west Nepal.
I am glad to inform you that there are other short term training centres established in these two regions which could meet the need for five month training for grassroots leaders. Those who could not come for a year program, can access training elsewhere. So, it would be more practical and needful to upgrade our training centre into a year program.
Course design (Draft)
1. Thorough Biblical studies : 5 months
2. Vocational/ Skill development training : 3 months
3. Training on Evangelism, Church planting and missions : 1 month
4. Internship/field experience in their own churches : 1 month (Return back to the training centre for one more month)
5. Leadership skills: 1 month (Graduation after 11 months)
Total duration 11 months. (One month gap for preparation for the next session)
I would appreciate your ideas and input in this regard, as this is only a draft proposal. Thanking you, Dil, Nepal.
Any thoughts or suggestions reading this would be gratefully received. Thanks for continuing to pray to the Good Shepherd to continue to lead us into green pastures.
Since this board meeting, you may have heard that our board chairman pastor Padam Nepali was attacked by thugs on a motorbike on waste ground near his home in Surkhet. He was apparently knocked unconscious but is recovering at home. He is said to believe that they were intending to kill him for his Christian witness, so he is rejoicing and praising God he is alive. I have emailed a message of sympathy to Padam on our behalf. Please pray for him to be safe, for his body to be healed, and for his family.
Yours in Him, Rod.
Sunday, February 12, 2012
graduation ceremony for the Tenth batch
HBTC Surkhet Principal Suresh Prasad Koiral says:
By the grace of God and by your continuous prayers and support, HBTC Surkhet had its 10th graduation ceremony at Itram Church with 100 plus invited local pastors and leaders. In July, we had taken 16 participants from 10 districts of the mid west and far west regions of Nepal. Except for one brother from the far west, 15 of them have successfully completed their training and we had the wonderful privilege of equipping and empowering them for effective future ministry.
One week Long Outreach Program
In the 10th batch we taught altogether 25 subjects in order to equip them in the knowledge of the word of God. According to our curriculum, for practical experience, HBTC Surkhet had sent them for outreach in three groups for one week each. This time, we had an opportunity to visit and share the good news in two districts. Two groups went to Surkhet and one to Kailali district. During this mission trip, four people accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour. They also distributed 100 Bibles and 7500 gospel tracts. We thank God that local Churches hosted our participants for a week and provided accommodation. They also participated with the team. Our participants were encouraged by their hospitality and godly behaviour. All of them were very encouraged and blessed by this outreach because they could practice what they had learned in classes. Most of them had the privilege of preaching in local church services and had opportunity to share their life testimonies.
Testimonies from Graduates
Three participants shared their training experience. Mr. Tanka Bdr Rana from Itram church, shared that he could learn 'how to study and preach from the pulpit'. Being a deacon of the church, he was not able to preach easily before; now, he is well equipped and excited to do this ministry effectively.
Mrs. Khima Rana from Doti committed her life to serve Christ in the unreached remote area of Doti.
Mr. Omprakash from Tulsipur Dang wants to serve with his pastor in the local church. He is a physically disabled person, but spiritually strong and committed to win his people in Dang district.
Mr. Shambhu Tharu sadly lost his father at the end of this training. His father was a pastor and suddenly got ill and died. It was very hard time for him, but God comforted him and strengthened him so he could complete the training. Now Mr. Shambhu will be going back to take responsibility for his father's church as the new pastor.
Graduation Ceremony
By the grace of God, we had a privilege to invite Mrs. Ann Townsend as the chief guest of our graduation ceremony. She has been serving as a teacher in INF Surkhet. She encouraged the graduating students and invited guests, emphasizing that our ministry is based on 'LOVE'. We have to love our people as our God loved us, by paying a great price.
The graduation program was led by Ps Suresh Koirala (Principal) who presented a report of the last five months. It was formally opened in prayer by Pastor Navin Darlami (Vice President). INF Surkhet program manager John Narayan Rai led a prayer of dedication. Graduating students also presented a 'commitment song' that reflected what they will be doing for the Lord in the future: "where you will lead us we will go, what you want us to do, we will humbly obey and follow…" HBSA executive director Yam Tamang conveyed a vote of thanks and word of encouragement to all who cooperated in many ways to achieve the goals of HBTC. Every local board member was able to be involved in this graduation programme. Last but not least, Padam Gaire, president of the local board, concluded the ceremony with a benediction prayer.
Testimony from 7th Batch Student (Alumni)
Mr. Purna Bardewa shared how he was blessed and equipped in HBTC as part of the seventh Batch. Immediately after completing training he began serving as a pastor in Tatapani, Surkhet. He was an active student and now he is responsible for multiple ministries in Surkhet. He is also running Atmik Yatra Radion, a weekly teaching program in Surkhet. Besides this, he runs a tuition center in Surkhet. His HBTC training has enabled him to confidently share in the graduation ceremony.
Thank God for His grace and mercy to equip, empower and mobilize the workers of God into His Vineyard in order to reap the harvest. On behalf of the HBTC Surkhet family I would like to express my deep thankfulness to Dr. Rod and his family and other partners as well for joining us and extending helping hands in this glorious ministry. Kindly pray for the 11th Session which is already underway. Thank you, Suresh.
By the grace of God and by your continuous prayers and support, HBTC Surkhet had its 10th graduation ceremony at Itram Church with 100 plus invited local pastors and leaders. In July, we had taken 16 participants from 10 districts of the mid west and far west regions of Nepal. Except for one brother from the far west, 15 of them have successfully completed their training and we had the wonderful privilege of equipping and empowering them for effective future ministry.
One week Long Outreach Program
In the 10th batch we taught altogether 25 subjects in order to equip them in the knowledge of the word of God. According to our curriculum, for practical experience, HBTC Surkhet had sent them for outreach in three groups for one week each. This time, we had an opportunity to visit and share the good news in two districts. Two groups went to Surkhet and one to Kailali district. During this mission trip, four people accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour. They also distributed 100 Bibles and 7500 gospel tracts. We thank God that local Churches hosted our participants for a week and provided accommodation. They also participated with the team. Our participants were encouraged by their hospitality and godly behaviour. All of them were very encouraged and blessed by this outreach because they could practice what they had learned in classes. Most of them had the privilege of preaching in local church services and had opportunity to share their life testimonies.
Testimonies from Graduates
Three participants shared their training experience. Mr. Tanka Bdr Rana from Itram church, shared that he could learn 'how to study and preach from the pulpit'. Being a deacon of the church, he was not able to preach easily before; now, he is well equipped and excited to do this ministry effectively.
Mrs. Khima Rana from Doti committed her life to serve Christ in the unreached remote area of Doti.
Mr. Omprakash from Tulsipur Dang wants to serve with his pastor in the local church. He is a physically disabled person, but spiritually strong and committed to win his people in Dang district.
Mr. Shambhu Tharu sadly lost his father at the end of this training. His father was a pastor and suddenly got ill and died. It was very hard time for him, but God comforted him and strengthened him so he could complete the training. Now Mr. Shambhu will be going back to take responsibility for his father's church as the new pastor.
Graduation Ceremony
By the grace of God, we had a privilege to invite Mrs. Ann Townsend as the chief guest of our graduation ceremony. She has been serving as a teacher in INF Surkhet. She encouraged the graduating students and invited guests, emphasizing that our ministry is based on 'LOVE'. We have to love our people as our God loved us, by paying a great price.
The graduation program was led by Ps Suresh Koirala (Principal) who presented a report of the last five months. It was formally opened in prayer by Pastor Navin Darlami (Vice President). INF Surkhet program manager John Narayan Rai led a prayer of dedication. Graduating students also presented a 'commitment song' that reflected what they will be doing for the Lord in the future: "where you will lead us we will go, what you want us to do, we will humbly obey and follow…" HBSA executive director Yam Tamang conveyed a vote of thanks and word of encouragement to all who cooperated in many ways to achieve the goals of HBTC. Every local board member was able to be involved in this graduation programme. Last but not least, Padam Gaire, president of the local board, concluded the ceremony with a benediction prayer.
Testimony from 7th Batch Student (Alumni)
Mr. Purna Bardewa shared how he was blessed and equipped in HBTC as part of the seventh Batch. Immediately after completing training he began serving as a pastor in Tatapani, Surkhet. He was an active student and now he is responsible for multiple ministries in Surkhet. He is also running Atmik Yatra Radion, a weekly teaching program in Surkhet. Besides this, he runs a tuition center in Surkhet. His HBTC training has enabled him to confidently share in the graduation ceremony.
Thank God for His grace and mercy to equip, empower and mobilize the workers of God into His Vineyard in order to reap the harvest. On behalf of the HBTC Surkhet family I would like to express my deep thankfulness to Dr. Rod and his family and other partners as well for joining us and extending helping hands in this glorious ministry. Kindly pray for the 11th Session which is already underway. Thank you, Suresh.
Sunday, January 15, 2012
10th anniversary of HBSA
Celebration of God’s Faithfulness of TEN years.
Dear friends and partners,
Loving greetings from HBSA.
“He is the Eben-ezer, who has helped us thus far.” (I Sam 7:12)
First of all, let me express my personal gratitude and a collective thankfulness to you for your faithful friendship, partnership and sincere prayers for us in the last ten years in the efforts of training, equipping and empowering the Grass Roots leaders/church planters of Nepal. We do not think it would have been possible for us to carry on this training and church planting ministry, had you not played a vital role in praying, encouraging and supporting us financially.
Our joys find no boundary that we could complete TEN years of ministry, the first MILESTONE beginning from Jan 2, 2002 and it is all because of your faithful partnership with us. God has been very faithful to us in holding the training seminars in all 75 districts of Nepal in the last 10 years. Regardless of all political turmoil and chaos in the land, the Lord has been very faithful in using mild vessels like us in helping the grass roots leaders getting training in their own locality.
Celebration in Chitwan, central south Nepal.
On Jan 1-3, 2012, we all the staffs and the children had a wonderful time of celebration of God’s faithfulness of TEN years to us. The first reason of choosing Chitwan, Central south Nepal for this unprecedented celebration to us is that this is the central place for the staff members coming from Kathmandu, Central Nepal, Dhankuta East Nepal and Surkhet, the Midwestern Nepal, easy access of travels. Secondly, we wanted to have sweet fellowship among the staff members who live in different locations, instead of spending a huge amount of money for publicity inviting many people for the occasion. I am personally proud of all the staff members for their commitment and faithfulness in the last ten years and pray that the Lord would bless bless them all so that many more grass roots leaders/church planters would be trained in order to plant thousands of churches and Feed, Lead &Protect their respective flocks in more effective ways to glorify God.
We are glad to share with you the following results of our joint labor in this endeavor in the last Ten Years.
Full time staffs : 14
Local coordinator (Bio-vocational Missionaries) : 18
Training seminars held in : All 75 districts
Mobile based Leadership Training for the number of : 4,385
Grass Roots church Planters among the Oral Learners Training in different level for : 5,067
Graduates of Five Month Residential Leadership Training : 445
Surkhet, Midwest Nepal (10 sessions) : 153
Lalitpur, Central Nepal (14 sessions) : 223
Dhankuta, east Nepal (4 sessions) : 69
Master of Ministry graduates in Kathmandu : 20
M. Min continuing in Kathmandu : 99
M. Min continuing in Biratnagar : 44
No. of Oral churches planted : more than 200
All glory to God.
“Give thanks to the Lord, call upon His name, make known His deeds among the Peoples.” (Psm 105:1)
A leadership Seminar for the staffs
On the occasion of the celebration, while almost all the staffs were present, I felt that they needed some encouragement and required to learn some leadership skills in order to be more effective in their respective tasks in the ministry. Our guest speaker, Rev. Sukdev Giri, a YWAMer of Chitwan district encouraged the staff members on three different aspects of leadership. First of all, he focused on the life of Abraham, the Father of Faith who loved and Obeyed God, and became the blessing to many nations, not only for his people. Speaking further about the faithfulness of Abraham, he emphasized that the ministers of the Lord ought to be faithful even in small tasks trusting even for an unknown destination. It was the obedience that led Abraham to be the blessing to many.
Secondly, he encouraged us to be available referring the life of Gideon, who thought that he was not worthy for the calling. But, God could use him in protecting and saving his people from the Midianites. He was busy threshing wheat when God called him. He also referred some other busy people whom God could use for His purposes e.g. prophet like Elisha who was ploughing when Elijah called him to follow. Likewise, Paul was busy on the road to Damascus, when he encountered Jesus, Matthew was on the table of the tax office, Simon Peter and Andrew were casting their nets into the sea, and John and James were mending their nets when Jesus called them. God always calls and uses busy people rather than the idle ones. He is concerned about the faithfulness and availabilities of the people, rather than the abilities.
Thirdly, he focused on different gifts in the ministry referring to I Cor. 12 and Rom 12. He encouraged our staff members to carry on divine task and be faithful in the gifts granted by the Lord. In a team like ours, we all the members have specific roles to play in order to win the game and no role is lesser than others and everyone plays a vital role in the endeavor. Everyone is significant in the eyes of the Lord and we complete as the team members, but do not compete with each other.
Staff Retreat & Elephant Riding
As mentioned above, we all were busy in the task given by the Lord and needed some refreshment to gear up faster in the new year. We read in Mark 6: 30-34, that our Lord Jesus wanted his disciples to take some rest in a quiet place. We too tried to apply the method and I remember that I had taken all the staffs and children on one occasion in July 2009 to the mountain top riding the only Cable Car in Nepal. All appreciated the idea and felt refreshed. Our Lord took his disciples to the sea shore some times, and to the mountain in some other occasions in order to disciple and teach them. I am just trying to imply the biblical lessons in the process of building the team.
In order to get some rest and be refreshed to gear up faster, there was a Christmas break for 16 days granted to each staff member and also thought that a Three Day Retreat would do some fueling, we decided to have all the staff members along with their children go for Elephant riding at Chitwan National Park on the 4th Jan 2012. As Nehemiah did while the work of rebuilding of the wall was Half Way through, people were tired and started thinking about their family needs. Nehemiah stationed them according to their families (Neh 4:13) and work was completed after 52 days. Just trying to apply the Biblical example, we had all the families stationed and enjoy the elephant riding on the 4th Jan morning.
Prayer Concerns
As we proceed to the second phase of ministry after this milestone, we will appreciate your continuing friendship, partnership and prayers for us. In the first decade of ministry, our prayer and priority have been to focus on the Purpose, People both benefactor and beneficiary and Programs. Now the time has come for us to initiate for securing some Property as well which will help us on the way to Sustainability. We, therefore will write soon to you for prayer and partnership for the needed land and building for the training centers in this second phase of
Ministry.
For this second decade of ministry, we continue to covet the prayer and partnership of the like-minded partners like you and we need God desperately.
“If your presence does not go with us, do not bring us up from here.” (Exod 33:15)
Your partnership has meant us much and may the Lord continue to bless you for His purposes.
Thanking you for all you have been doing,
Dil Bahadur Tamang
Founder/President
Himalayan Bible Study Academy (Govt. Reg No. 1331)
Kathmandu, Nepal.
Dear friends and partners,
Loving greetings from HBSA.
“He is the Eben-ezer, who has helped us thus far.” (I Sam 7:12)
First of all, let me express my personal gratitude and a collective thankfulness to you for your faithful friendship, partnership and sincere prayers for us in the last ten years in the efforts of training, equipping and empowering the Grass Roots leaders/church planters of Nepal. We do not think it would have been possible for us to carry on this training and church planting ministry, had you not played a vital role in praying, encouraging and supporting us financially.
Our joys find no boundary that we could complete TEN years of ministry, the first MILESTONE beginning from Jan 2, 2002 and it is all because of your faithful partnership with us. God has been very faithful to us in holding the training seminars in all 75 districts of Nepal in the last 10 years. Regardless of all political turmoil and chaos in the land, the Lord has been very faithful in using mild vessels like us in helping the grass roots leaders getting training in their own locality.
Celebration in Chitwan, central south Nepal.
On Jan 1-3, 2012, we all the staffs and the children had a wonderful time of celebration of God’s faithfulness of TEN years to us. The first reason of choosing Chitwan, Central south Nepal for this unprecedented celebration to us is that this is the central place for the staff members coming from Kathmandu, Central Nepal, Dhankuta East Nepal and Surkhet, the Midwestern Nepal, easy access of travels. Secondly, we wanted to have sweet fellowship among the staff members who live in different locations, instead of spending a huge amount of money for publicity inviting many people for the occasion. I am personally proud of all the staff members for their commitment and faithfulness in the last ten years and pray that the Lord would bless bless them all so that many more grass roots leaders/church planters would be trained in order to plant thousands of churches and Feed, Lead &Protect their respective flocks in more effective ways to glorify God.
We are glad to share with you the following results of our joint labor in this endeavor in the last Ten Years.
Full time staffs : 14
Local coordinator (Bio-vocational Missionaries) : 18
Training seminars held in : All 75 districts
Mobile based Leadership Training for the number of : 4,385
Grass Roots church Planters among the Oral Learners Training in different level for : 5,067
Graduates of Five Month Residential Leadership Training : 445
Surkhet, Midwest Nepal (10 sessions) : 153
Lalitpur, Central Nepal (14 sessions) : 223
Dhankuta, east Nepal (4 sessions) : 69
Master of Ministry graduates in Kathmandu : 20
M. Min continuing in Kathmandu : 99
M. Min continuing in Biratnagar : 44
No. of Oral churches planted : more than 200
All glory to God.
“Give thanks to the Lord, call upon His name, make known His deeds among the Peoples.” (Psm 105:1)
A leadership Seminar for the staffs
On the occasion of the celebration, while almost all the staffs were present, I felt that they needed some encouragement and required to learn some leadership skills in order to be more effective in their respective tasks in the ministry. Our guest speaker, Rev. Sukdev Giri, a YWAMer of Chitwan district encouraged the staff members on three different aspects of leadership. First of all, he focused on the life of Abraham, the Father of Faith who loved and Obeyed God, and became the blessing to many nations, not only for his people. Speaking further about the faithfulness of Abraham, he emphasized that the ministers of the Lord ought to be faithful even in small tasks trusting even for an unknown destination. It was the obedience that led Abraham to be the blessing to many.
Secondly, he encouraged us to be available referring the life of Gideon, who thought that he was not worthy for the calling. But, God could use him in protecting and saving his people from the Midianites. He was busy threshing wheat when God called him. He also referred some other busy people whom God could use for His purposes e.g. prophet like Elisha who was ploughing when Elijah called him to follow. Likewise, Paul was busy on the road to Damascus, when he encountered Jesus, Matthew was on the table of the tax office, Simon Peter and Andrew were casting their nets into the sea, and John and James were mending their nets when Jesus called them. God always calls and uses busy people rather than the idle ones. He is concerned about the faithfulness and availabilities of the people, rather than the abilities.
Thirdly, he focused on different gifts in the ministry referring to I Cor. 12 and Rom 12. He encouraged our staff members to carry on divine task and be faithful in the gifts granted by the Lord. In a team like ours, we all the members have specific roles to play in order to win the game and no role is lesser than others and everyone plays a vital role in the endeavor. Everyone is significant in the eyes of the Lord and we complete as the team members, but do not compete with each other.
Staff Retreat & Elephant Riding
As mentioned above, we all were busy in the task given by the Lord and needed some refreshment to gear up faster in the new year. We read in Mark 6: 30-34, that our Lord Jesus wanted his disciples to take some rest in a quiet place. We too tried to apply the method and I remember that I had taken all the staffs and children on one occasion in July 2009 to the mountain top riding the only Cable Car in Nepal. All appreciated the idea and felt refreshed. Our Lord took his disciples to the sea shore some times, and to the mountain in some other occasions in order to disciple and teach them. I am just trying to imply the biblical lessons in the process of building the team.
In order to get some rest and be refreshed to gear up faster, there was a Christmas break for 16 days granted to each staff member and also thought that a Three Day Retreat would do some fueling, we decided to have all the staff members along with their children go for Elephant riding at Chitwan National Park on the 4th Jan 2012. As Nehemiah did while the work of rebuilding of the wall was Half Way through, people were tired and started thinking about their family needs. Nehemiah stationed them according to their families (Neh 4:13) and work was completed after 52 days. Just trying to apply the Biblical example, we had all the families stationed and enjoy the elephant riding on the 4th Jan morning.
Prayer Concerns
As we proceed to the second phase of ministry after this milestone, we will appreciate your continuing friendship, partnership and prayers for us. In the first decade of ministry, our prayer and priority have been to focus on the Purpose, People both benefactor and beneficiary and Programs. Now the time has come for us to initiate for securing some Property as well which will help us on the way to Sustainability. We, therefore will write soon to you for prayer and partnership for the needed land and building for the training centers in this second phase of
Ministry.
For this second decade of ministry, we continue to covet the prayer and partnership of the like-minded partners like you and we need God desperately.
“If your presence does not go with us, do not bring us up from here.” (Exod 33:15)
Your partnership has meant us much and may the Lord continue to bless you for His purposes.
Thanking you for all you have been doing,
Dil Bahadur Tamang
Founder/President
Himalayan Bible Study Academy (Govt. Reg No. 1331)
Kathmandu, Nepal.
Report of 10th Batch
Report of 10th Batch
Himalayan Bible Training Center
Five Month Residential Leadership Training, Surkhet
Warm Greetings, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 2012 from HBTC Surkhet.
By the grace of God and by your continuous prayer and support HBTC Surkhet could have its 10th graduation ceremony on 11th Dec. 2011 at Itram Church with 100 plus invited local pastors and leaders. In July 17, 2011, we had taken 16 participants from 10 districts of mid west and far west Nepal. Except one brother from far west Nepal, 15 of them have successfully completed their training and we had wonderful privilege to equip and empower them for effective future ministry.
One week Long Outreach Program
In 10th batch we taught altogether 25 subjects to equip them in the knowledge of the word of God. According to annual planning, for the practical experience, HBTC Surkhet had sent them for outreach for a week in three groups. This time, we had an opportunity to visit and share the good news in two districts. Two groups went in Surkhet and one in Kailali district. During this mission trip, four people have accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. They also distributed 100 Bibles and 7500 gospel tracts. We thank God that local Churches hosted our participants for a week and provided accommodation. They also participated with team. Our participants were encouraged by their hospitality and godly behaviors. All of them were so much encouraged and blessed by this outreach because they could practice what they had learned in the class. Most of them got privilege to preach in the church services and some even got opportunity to share their life testimonies.
Graduation Ceremony (11th Dec.2011)
By the grace of God, we had a privilege to invite Mrs. Ann Townsend as chief guest of our graduation ceremony. Who has been serving as a teacher in INF Surkhet. She encouraged to graduating students and invited guests from the word of God. She emphasized that our ministry is based on 'LOVE'. We have to love our people as our God loved us with paying great price.
The graduation program was led by Ps Suresh Koirala(Principal) and he also presented the training reports of five month. It was formally started by the prayer of Ps. Navin Darlami (Vice President of HBTC Surkhet board). Mrs. Ganga Nepali (Board member) welcomed all invited guests.INF Surkhet program manager Ps. John Narayan Rai led dedication prayer. Graduating students also presented a commitment song that reflected what they will be doing for the Lord in future. Song says; where you will lead us we will go, what you want us to do; we will humbly obey and follow… HBSA executive director Ps. Yam Tamang took an opportunity to convey the vote thanks and word of encouragement to all who cooperated in many ways to achieve the goals of HBTC.
Praise God, all the local board members involved in graduation program and cooperated. At the last not the least, Ps. Padam Gaire president of local board concluded the graduation ceremony with the benediction prayer.
Testimonies from Graduates
Three participants had got time to share training experiences. Mr. Tanka Bdr Rana from Itram church, shared that he could learn 'how to study and preach from the pulpit'. Being a deacon of the church, he was not able to preach easily before, now, he is well equipped and excited to do ministry effectively.
Second, Mrs. Khima Rana from Doti, she has committed her life to serve Christ in unreached remote areas of Doti. Third person was Mr. Omprakash from Tulsipur Dang. He wants to serve with pastor in the localchurch. He is physically disable person but spiritually strong and committed to win his people in Dang district.
One of the students, Mr. Shambhu Tharu at the end of this training, he lost his father. His father was a pastor and suddenly got sickness and died. It was very hard time for him but God comforted him and could complete the training. Good news is Mr. Shambhu is going take the responsibility of this church as a pastor after this training.
Testimony from 7th Batch Student (Alumni)
Mr. Purna Bardewa shared how he was blessed through HBTC training and was equipped in HBTC in seven Batch. Right after his training he has been serving as a pastor in Tatapani Surkhet. He was one of one the active students and now he is responsible person of multi ministries in Surkhet. He is also running Atmik Yatra Radion program once a week in Surkhet. Besisde this, he is involved in tuition center in Surkhet. It is because of HBTC training, he confidently shared in the graduation ceremony.
Thank God for His grace and mercy to equip, empower and mobilize the workers of God into His Vineyard to reap the harvest. On the behalf of HBTC Surkhet family I would like to express my deep thankfulness to Dr. Rod and his family and other partners as well for joining us and extending helping hands in this glorious ministry. Kindly pray for 11th Session, which will start January 15, 2011. Thank you
In His Service
Ps Suresh Prasad Koiral
Principal, HBTC Surkhet
Himalayan Bible Training Center
Five Month Residential Leadership Training, Surkhet
Warm Greetings, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 2012 from HBTC Surkhet.
By the grace of God and by your continuous prayer and support HBTC Surkhet could have its 10th graduation ceremony on 11th Dec. 2011 at Itram Church with 100 plus invited local pastors and leaders. In July 17, 2011, we had taken 16 participants from 10 districts of mid west and far west Nepal. Except one brother from far west Nepal, 15 of them have successfully completed their training and we had wonderful privilege to equip and empower them for effective future ministry.
One week Long Outreach Program
In 10th batch we taught altogether 25 subjects to equip them in the knowledge of the word of God. According to annual planning, for the practical experience, HBTC Surkhet had sent them for outreach for a week in three groups. This time, we had an opportunity to visit and share the good news in two districts. Two groups went in Surkhet and one in Kailali district. During this mission trip, four people have accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. They also distributed 100 Bibles and 7500 gospel tracts. We thank God that local Churches hosted our participants for a week and provided accommodation. They also participated with team. Our participants were encouraged by their hospitality and godly behaviors. All of them were so much encouraged and blessed by this outreach because they could practice what they had learned in the class. Most of them got privilege to preach in the church services and some even got opportunity to share their life testimonies.
Graduation Ceremony (11th Dec.2011)
By the grace of God, we had a privilege to invite Mrs. Ann Townsend as chief guest of our graduation ceremony. Who has been serving as a teacher in INF Surkhet. She encouraged to graduating students and invited guests from the word of God. She emphasized that our ministry is based on 'LOVE'. We have to love our people as our God loved us with paying great price.
The graduation program was led by Ps Suresh Koirala(Principal) and he also presented the training reports of five month. It was formally started by the prayer of Ps. Navin Darlami (Vice President of HBTC Surkhet board). Mrs. Ganga Nepali (Board member) welcomed all invited guests.INF Surkhet program manager Ps. John Narayan Rai led dedication prayer. Graduating students also presented a commitment song that reflected what they will be doing for the Lord in future. Song says; where you will lead us we will go, what you want us to do; we will humbly obey and follow… HBSA executive director Ps. Yam Tamang took an opportunity to convey the vote thanks and word of encouragement to all who cooperated in many ways to achieve the goals of HBTC.
Praise God, all the local board members involved in graduation program and cooperated. At the last not the least, Ps. Padam Gaire president of local board concluded the graduation ceremony with the benediction prayer.
Testimonies from Graduates
Three participants had got time to share training experiences. Mr. Tanka Bdr Rana from Itram church, shared that he could learn 'how to study and preach from the pulpit'. Being a deacon of the church, he was not able to preach easily before, now, he is well equipped and excited to do ministry effectively.
Second, Mrs. Khima Rana from Doti, she has committed her life to serve Christ in unreached remote areas of Doti. Third person was Mr. Omprakash from Tulsipur Dang. He wants to serve with pastor in the localchurch. He is physically disable person but spiritually strong and committed to win his people in Dang district.
One of the students, Mr. Shambhu Tharu at the end of this training, he lost his father. His father was a pastor and suddenly got sickness and died. It was very hard time for him but God comforted him and could complete the training. Good news is Mr. Shambhu is going take the responsibility of this church as a pastor after this training.
Testimony from 7th Batch Student (Alumni)
Mr. Purna Bardewa shared how he was blessed through HBTC training and was equipped in HBTC in seven Batch. Right after his training he has been serving as a pastor in Tatapani Surkhet. He was one of one the active students and now he is responsible person of multi ministries in Surkhet. He is also running Atmik Yatra Radion program once a week in Surkhet. Besisde this, he is involved in tuition center in Surkhet. It is because of HBTC training, he confidently shared in the graduation ceremony.
Thank God for His grace and mercy to equip, empower and mobilize the workers of God into His Vineyard to reap the harvest. On the behalf of HBTC Surkhet family I would like to express my deep thankfulness to Dr. Rod and his family and other partners as well for joining us and extending helping hands in this glorious ministry. Kindly pray for 11th Session, which will start January 15, 2011. Thank you
In His Service
Ps Suresh Prasad Koiral
Principal, HBTC Surkhet
Sunday, April 10, 2011
introduction to new principal
My name is Suresh Prasad Koirala, I am 37 years old, married to Kalpana Koirala (33), with two children, Sambhawana (7) and Kephas (5).
I was born and brought up in a higher cast and very orthodox Hindu family in Dumja, Sindhuli District, in eastern Nepal. The whole of my childhood seemed to be spent doing Hindu rituals and customs. Later, when I started to question these Hindu religious customs, I lost faith and became an atheist.
After my high school education, I moved to Kathmandu for higher education. During my study, I read about Jesus Christ through the Four Spiritual Laws booklet, and accepted Christ as my Lord and Saviour in 1993. When my parents came to know that I had accepted Christ and become a Christian, I was not allowed to enter the family house, and was kicked out of my village. Two years ago my father died, and the villagers rose against me and forced me to do Hindu customs as part of his funeral service. When I refused to obey, they prohibited me from living in that village, even in my own family home.
When attending Church services, I really felt called to follow Christ. I noticed church people were lovely, simple and polite. As time passed, I attended short-term training, which helped me to know more about Jesus. Later, after some years I was given the privilege of taking responsibility for a Church in Dhulikhel (Kabhre District), and also worked with Campus Crusade for Christ for 10 years.
I wanted to be equipped better for ministry as well as in Biblical knowledge. God opened the door for me to study for 3 years for a Bachelor in Theology at Bible College (B.Ed, B.Th.and M.Min). After completing this course, I was ordained as an associate Pastor at Anmol Christian Church, Prayag pokhari, Lalitpur for 4 years.
My vision and calling is to train and build up leaders for the churches in Nepal. I thank God that I have been given the privilege of working with HBSA Nepal, and recently moving to work in HBTC Surkhet with my family.
Lastly, I thank you and your supporters for praying and supporting financially our HBTC Surkhet. We highly appreciate this, and express our gratitude to you and to all the friends who have been continuously partnering with HBSA ministry.
Together, we shall equip, empower and mobilize workers in the vineyard of God.
Please pray for God's grace and protection for the 9th Batch of students, that all of them may able to complete the course successfully. Pray also for our sound health and ministry, for my children and wife's study, and for the next 10th batch, that the right people may apply and be selected for training.
Thanking you, Suresh Prasad Koirala, Principal, HBTC, Surkhet, Mid- West Nepal.
I’m sure you will join me in praying for this family, it is not easy to settle in the west when you are from the east in Nepal. Pray that ‘being rooted and established in love, [they may] grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge’ (Ephesians 3:17-19). Thank you for your support, yours faithfully, Rod.
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