This month Team REAL come alongside missionaries in Mozambique. One of their major responsibilities is mentoring, teaching and leading at the Bible College. As part of our ministry efforts this month we went to class (I even taught a small section!), helped in the kitchen, provided extra hands with child care, and worked on the farm project. Jason and Rachel have also just had their website revamped. This is the piece I wrote on the Bible College:
A place where men and women can come and learn the Word of
God, Xai-Xai Bible
College in Gaza
Province is a sanctuary for the
young adults of Mozambique. Here, the Old Testament is not just a class,
it’s guidance; its an example. The
school is structured like that of the early university with a three year
program offering a multitude of classes, but keeping its primary focus on
theological truths.
Xai Xai Wesleyan Bible College
Supported by the Wesleyan
Church, the Bible
College is one of several in Africa;
yet it is the only one of its kind in Mozambique. Students come from all over the country to
receive discipleship training. Classes
are designed to create able, confident, well-rounded graduates. Students take a variety of classes to prepare
them for their futures. There are
foundational classes like Old and New Testament as well as electives like
music, English and multi-media.
2004 saw the first graduating class of 24 go back to their
homes and use their knowledge and skills to become pastors, ministry leaders,
teachers and amazing witnesses for the power and love of Christ. Each year the school enrolls approximately 60
new students. On campus, the students
are provided housing, meals, childcare and a monthly stipend. Married and single students are accepted to
the school. Many times the wives do not
read or write, so the Bible College
offers sewing classes and literary assistance.
The atmosphere is that of an extended family where people look after,
care and support one another.
One of the amazing women who works hard each day to feed the students and their families
Aerial View Of Xai Xai Bible College Campus
The international staff includes two American missionaries,
one South-African missionary, and five Mozambican staff families. Currently, 8 of Mozambique’s
11 provinces are represented by the 45 diploma students. Classes are taught in
Portuguese and language development classes are offered to help the students,
who speak numerous dialects, enhance their proficiency in the country’s
national language.
Classes provide book knowledge but practical experience
polishes skill. Bible
College students put their studies
to work in a variety of settings. Chapel
is twice a week at the school. Music
ministry skills are exercised, Biblical knowledge is tested and testimonial
witnessing is part of each service.
Beyond campus, students work with local communities and along side area
churches to practice the curriculum in real life situations. There are also opportunities to lead student
groups, music, or even stand in for teachers when the need arises.
One of the upper level students helping translate the sermon at local church
(in this case, the sermon was given in English—>to Portuguese–>to Xaingan dialect)
Xai Xai
Bible College
is funded by local and overseas donations.
The support pays salaries, feeds the students and families, buys books
and covers transportation costs.
Students are well cared for while working towards their diploma. On graduation, the staff, students and
families come together to celebrate. The
local community joins in and the event is something of a festival of
fellowship. Xai Xai Bible graduates then
move out into the world to spread the love of the Lord.
