Graduation Time

It was a wonderful time of celebration! The choir sang beautiful songs of worship and even the children were involved through the presentation of songs and recitals. The crowd was inspired by a message that challenged them to unreservedly serve the Lord, and was encouraged as they heard the testimonies of several students.

This all happened recently at the commencement services of the Indian Bible Institute (IBI) in Paraguay. At IBI, indigenous leaders are trained and equipped for service in the church. MB Mission worker Melvin Warkentin, a teacher at IBI, gets to see directly how Jesus changes the lives of those who seek Him. The testimony of Andrés is one example of how the lives of students are being transformed as they study God’s word.

Andrés found it very difficult to leave his home and family to come to IBI. When he first arrived, he was extremely critical and closed-minded. Although Andrés struggled to truly apply himself to his studies, God gave him the strength to continue. It was not easy, but Andrés realized that his future work in the church will also not be easy.

During his time at IBI, Andrés learned how to work in the church. He had the opportunity to teach children in the Sunday school program and to visit sick people in the hospital. He also took a course on youth work, which was extremely useful because of the many challenges of working among youth in his community. In addition to this, Andrés learned other practical skills at IBI, such as milking a cow!

Now, two years later, Andrés can look back and see how God has been teaching and molding him. He has been strengthened in his faith and is prepared to serve in the church.

It was encouraging for Melvin to see and hear how God has worked through IBI to change Andrés’ life and the lives of so many other students. Pray for Melvin as he teaches and mentors these young Christian leaders, and pray for the recent graduates as they go back to serve and minister in their communities.

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” – 2 Timothy 3:16-17