There is a great need for godly church leaders in Tanzania who teach the Bible faithfully. The church has experienced significant growth in recent years, and many church plants in rural areas need trained pastors to disciple new believers and help guard them against false teachings. Furthermore, in a country where 51.3% live on less than $3 USD per day*, it is extremely challenging for students to fund their own theological education.    

In the Diocese of Mara, Tanzania, Bunda Bible College (BBC) is training up men and women to serve in their local churches across the country. BBC is one of three designated GAFCON regional colleges in Tanzania, and some of their students are sponsored with the help of supporters like you.   

Each year, on average, 700 students are trained as pastors in a three-year Bible college program across 17 countries, including Tanzania. In the last five years, a total of 2,000 trained pastors have been ordained for ministry in parishes.  

An investment of $2,500 AUD each year will train a pastor like Lukas over a three-year program. 

Lukas Mchininga is a recent graduate of the Diploma in Theology. Throughout this three-year course, he has learnt how to prepare a sermon, how to pastorally care for congregation members, and the importance of prayer. His training has emphasized the need for a strong spiritual foundation when leading a church.  

 “Correct teachings of God’s word is a major method to strengthen the church,” he says, “…because if the church lacks the correct teaching, it perishes.” 

As he graduates, Lukas seeks to lead his church with Jesus’ servant-hearted leadership.  

“As a pastor, I will lead God’s people and make decisions by following the example of Jesus Christ as a good shepherd, as he always instructed me to care, and feed his flocks. My role always is to be a good pastor not a wolf…” 

He also sees this servant-heartedness reflected in supporters like you.  

“…thank you very much for your lovely hearts for us. It wasn’t easy to spend your money, but it is God’s love, as Christ laid his life for us all, this love reminds me you are doing the same for us. May the Lord bless you always. You never give up on supporting us and others.”

For Your Prayers 

Pray that God will continue to resource Bunda Bible College so they can raise up more men and women to serve in Tanzanian churches