ABS Graduation

On March 31, 2007 the first three graduates of the Ankole Bible School walked across the stage and received their certificates of graduation. Kweyamba Richard, Byaruhanga Joseph, and Nuwagira Anatole (pictured right) completed the required 20 courses, but more importantly, they have demonstrated the hard work, integrity, and love for God that makes them a wonderful example to all of the Ankole church leaders.

The graduation ceremony itself was a very exciting and emotional time for the missionaries and the Ankole church leaders (many leaders and members from the churches were present for the day). This is a very significant time for the Ankole mission, with more and more responsibility being passed on to the Ugandan leaders, along with the fact that some of the original team members departing later this year. The ceremony also provided some meaningful farewell moments for Jay Baker and Nick Fouts as they addressed the men they have been mentoring and teaching for many years.

It was a wonderful thing to recognize the accomplishments of these men, but it was also good to hear the encouraging and challenging messages of the day. Jay shared memories of all three men, and charged them to a life of service as we gave them the gift of a Bible and a basin and towel. James Luchiviya, a church leader from Mbale, Uganda, gave a very insightful and inspiring keynote address. The day was topped off with lunch for everyone present. It was quite a celebration!

We praise God for what he has done in the lives of these men, and in others who will be graduating from ABS in the coming years!

The three graduates (L-R): Richard, Joseph, and Anatole