STUDENT STORIES
Student Stories from Australia
The Student Story of Esvin Guzmán (Guatemala)
In 1999 I had been invited repeatedly to attend the UPC church in Palin, Guatemala. I finally went with my friend to an evnagelistic rally being held by his church. I only remember being in the alter, telling the Lord that if I could in some way serve him that I was available. Over the past five years the world and the devil had totally destroyed my life, my dreams and my hopes. But I was feeling in that altar that God was giving new hope to my life.
Eight days later, I was baptized in Jesus name by Pastor Elmer Silva. It took me a year and a half to be filled with the Holy Ghost. But when I finally received it, I spoke in new tongues for a day and a half! It was GLORIOUS!
Three months after receiving the Holy Ghost I began a new adventure: ‘Studying in the Bible School’ (the Institute of Pentecostal Ministries in Guatemala City) While we were studying, four of my friends and I decided to begin to preach in our home neighborhood. We had an old megaphone that we nailed to a post and would take turns preaching each Sunday beginning at 6:00 am. We called it ‘The Channel of Blessing’
As time went on I began to serve in our local church, Life Center, with my pastor Rogelio Silva. I began serving as the treasurer for the youth, then as youth director, I played the congas and the drums, began being used as a praise singer and then playing the keyboard and finally preaching in some of the services. In the year 2000 I made a promise to God. If He would give me a stable job for the next five years, that I would dedicate the rest of my life to being a pastor. But not only that, I asked Him for a wife, a small home, a car and a child! J God came through with all of it!
In 2005, I had now been married for two years with my wife, Raquelita, and our first daughter had been born. I realized that if God had done what I asked then I had to do what I promised. I quit my job, and we began to pastor a small group. This group was founded in prayer. We spent hours in prayer seeking the annointing of God.
The new church in Villa Lobos, Guatemala (a daughter work of Life Center) was born in prayer and we now have been pastoring there for 20 years. The very first year we had two neighboring pieces of property dontated to us. We began to build, but God gave us a vision or a dream of the type of building we were to build. It would be a theater type construction. It has taken years to accomplish, but the dream has become a reality. The church has been greatly blessed by God.
I have learned so much from our leaders, missionaries and other pastors. We have excellent leaders in the UPC of Guatemala. Over the past 20 years we have served in several capacities in the UPC of
Guatemala:
1) District Youth President
2) National Youth President
3) Sectional Presbyter
4) District Superintendent
5) National Home Missions Director
6) Bible School Teacher
7) I am currently the National Secretary for the UPC of Guatemala
I have a beautiful wife, who has been a fundamental part of my calling. She has a beautiful singing voice to worship God with. With her, God has blessed us with three wonderful children, all of which are serving the Lord and I am convinced that God’s call is on their lives.
From our local church we have already began 3 daughter churches and are currently raising up 4 more. God has been so good!
In our local church in Villa Lobos we have 7 assistant pastors and more than 100 local church leaders active in the work of God. We have no doubt but that God has much greater things in store.
If our work is being done with excellence it is because our missionaries and leaders have led us with excellence, and we are eternally grateful for that. Our testimony is given for the glory of God
The Student Story of Melky Hakopes (PNG)
Missionaries Richard and Andrea Carver share the testimony of a recent graduate from the Bible School in Goroka, Papua New Guinea. ‘We thank God for another Bible School graduation, which is sending Mission Workers into the needy harvest. Of particular note is Bro Melky Hakopes, who has returned to his home island of Buka in Autonomous Region of Bougainville to start a new church on this unreached island. Please keep Buka in your prayers!’
The Student Story of Raul Torres (Costa Rica)
A Bible School student in Costa Rica
As shared by Missionaries Luke and Samantha Campbell
Greetings and God bless each of you from Buenos Aires, Costa Rica. I am Bro. Raul Torres member of the UPC of Buenos Aires in our country, where we serve the Lord in a variety of areas.
It is a great honor to be a student in the Pentecostal Theological Center of Costa Rica, where we have seen the Lord move through miracles, signs and wonders. I can say with all sincerity that the Bible School has been the main force that has permitted me and pushed me to obtain my ministerial license and see the hand of God move powerfully in my life.
I firmly believe that through the power of prayer, that we will see miracles and signs in the fulfillment of the ministry that God has called us to. Students are being called to great ministries and are being sent out in the power of God, and we believe they will accomplish great things for God. Please pray for all of us. We will see you in heaven.
The Student Story of Sebastian Suy (Guatemala)
A Guatemala Bible School Graduate
Shared by missionaries Brad and Regina Thompson
Pastor Tomas Suy was one of the first Mayan Indian pastors to join the UPC of Guatemala in the early 1980s. One of his sons, Sebastian, began to feel a call to ministry. So, Tomas called missionary Brad Thompson and asked if he could send him to Bible School. He shared with missionary Thompson that there were a couple of issues: First of all his primary language was a Mayan dialect and he did not speak a lot of Spanish. Secondly, he said that Sebastian was very timid. But missionary Thompson told him to send Sebastian to the Bible School in Guatemala City and that they would work with him.
Sebastian traveled the 4 hours by bus to the main Bible School in Guatemala City. Missionary Thompson said he would never forget the day he met him. He would not look him in the eye and he sort of mumbled as he looked at the ground.
Sebastian’s first semester of study was brutal. He had never really studied before and certainly not in Spanish. The results of his first tests and homework were consistently 10/100, 6/100, 12/100 and so forth. He was not responsive in classes and the constant talk among the teachers was 'what are we going to do about Bro. Sebastian?'.
At the end of the first semester Sebastian came into missionary Thompson’s office in tears. His report card was in his hand, and he was ready to go home. He said, 'Bro. Brad, I can't do it'. 'Look at my grades'. Missionary Thompson had already looked at his grades and his highest one was 15 out of 100 points! He had failed every course in the semester miserably... on paper. Sebastian said that ‘this study thing’ was impossible and that he might as well go back home and stay there and not continue his studies. He was crying and felt so defeated.
Then missionary Thompson asked Sebastian a very simple question: 'But have you learned anything?'. Sebastian’s demeanor immediately changed, and he began to get excited as he replied: 'Oh, Bro Brad, I have learned so much. I have taken it home and started to teach it to our youth'. He went on in animated tones to tell that the youth had started street evangelism, and they are reaching new young people and seeing them baptized in Jesus Name. He began to share of more dynamic youth services and of changes that were happening in the church because of what he was learning in Bible School.
To missionary Thompson the most amazing part of it all was the whole time he was sharing this he had a huge smile on his face and was looking at him eye to eye... something he would never have done months earlier.
Missionary Thompson told him, 'Bro. Sebastian, in your case, these grades mean nothing to me. You are learning, and God is transforming your life and ministry. To me that is a passing grade.' He encouraged him to return for the next semester and promised him that the administration would work more with him and that he would be amazed at what God would do.
Sebastian did return for the next semester and continued to graduation two and a half years later. At graduation he had an average grade of 88%... without any 'mercy grades'. God had truly done an amazing work in him.
But the greatest surprise was what happened in his last year of Bible School. His dad, Bro. Tomas, had gotten disgruntled with the UPC of Guatemala and decided to turn in his license and close the church down. He stood in service one Sunday and told the church his plans. Everyone was devastated, but no one as much as Sebastian. Sebastian stood to his feet and told his dad that he could not close the church. God was giving them a revival in the youth, and it was not fair. He said, 'if I have to, I will pastor the church'. The people in the church stood in applause and Sebastian became the pastor of the church.
Over the next few years the church tripled in size and two new churches were started in neighboring communities.
His dad eventually re-entered ministry and became the assistant pastor to Bro. Sebastian! What a great testimony to the grace and leadership of Bro. Sebastian Suy. Bro. Sebastian is now a Presbyter and has a Bible School extension in his section with over 25 students enrolled. He happily teaches students and can share with them firsthand the transformation that can be wrought in their lives.
They have just dedicated the beautiful new building that you can see in the pictures. This is his third church building since becoming pastor.
The Student Story of José Rosales (Guatemala)
Graduate José Rosales from Guatemala
As told by missionaries Brad and Regina Thompson
José Rosales came to the Bible School in Guatemala City as a dedicated youth whose pastor saw potential in him. His dad had died at a young age and José worked making chain-link fences to help support his family.
He was a reserved young man, very obviously wanting to learn and grow as a Christian and anxious to serve. But he was timid and initially struggled with his studies. At a quick observation nothing really stood out in him as potential for ministry. But God sees past the outward and looks deep into the heart.
José was enrolled in the three-year Bible School program and as time went on he began to shine as a student and his potential for ministry began to become more and more evident. He began dating a fellow classmate, Mirta Flores, who was also a secretary to missionary Brad Thompson.
By graduation, José and Mirta were planning on getting married. Since Mirta’s dad had also passed away, she asked missionary Thompson to walk her down the aisle and also to marry them.
José and Mirta were sent to a desert area of Guatemala where the UPC had no church. They made a lot of sacrifices and faced many challenges, but God used them to raise up a strong church in that area of Guatemala. Not only did they raise up their local church, but they began planting daughter works in surrounding areas and producing pastors for those churches.
José became the District Supt of that area of the nation at a very young age and Mirta served as the District Ladies coordinator. As the years passed, Bro. Jose’s home church in Guatemala City went through horrible problems and he was asked to come home to pastor the church. God used José and Mirta to totally turn their local church around. The church grew to several hundred members and they produced many daughter churches and ministers.
Eventually Bro. José Rosales was elected as the President of the UPC of Guatemala and Sis Mirta as the national ladies’ president. Bro. José was a visionary leader and powerful preacher and teacher. He became a renowned preacher in Spanish speaking nations and led the UPC of Guatemala to great growth and organizational and financial stability.
Bro. Rosales passed away due to complications from COVID. Sis. Mirta continues to pastor their church and serves as the national ladies’ president of the work in Guatemala.
When a student comes to the Bible School, you never know what God has in store for them. The Bible School is the seedbed for ministry, and it is here that men and women grow and develop into what God would have them to be. The Bible School serves as a springboard to launch men and women into the harvest field. It is a vital part of a growing national church.
The Student Story of Anne Sopie Ukoor (Mauritius, Africa)
When I took part in the Bible School at the certificate level, I was still in secondary school, and it was not easy to balance school and the Bible classes. I even thought about quitting, but I decided to keep going — I persevered, because through each teaching I received, I came to better understand the depth and power of God’s Word. The lessons I received in this course led me to discern God’s calling — the mission we have been given to accomplish as children of God.
This year, in 2025, I began the Diploma level, and I am determined to go all the way. All the glory belongs to our Lord Jesus Christ.
~ Anne Sopie Ukoor (Mauritius)
The Student Story of Franklin Bermudez (Nicaragua)
as told by missionary Steve Nix
Franklin came to the Bible School in Nicaragua in 2012 as one of the early students to study in our new Bible School / Headquarters facility under the GATS program. He was an excellent student and applied himself in every way possible to prepare himself. It was an honor to be his teacher for three of his courses. On December 5, 2015, he graduated with a GATS Diploma and immediately enrolled in the Associate Degree program, and once again excelled in his advanced studies. He graduated with honors and received his Associate Degree in Theology on June 8, 2019, with a cumulative GPA of 98.72 over his twelve semesters of study.
It has been a great joy to watch Franklin grow spiritually over the years and develop tremendous leadership qualities as he pastored his church, became a presbyter in his district, later the District Superintendent, and finally a Regional Leader and member of the General Board of Nicaragua. During our years as missionaries in Nicaragua, I have observed Franklin in every phase of his ministry and leadership, and it has made a tremendous impression on my life. Upon his graduation, he came to us asking if he could become a teacher in the Bible School and start attending our annual GATS Professional Development Seminars. That was one of the easiest decisions I've ever made! His enthusiasm for teaching is stellar and his skill at taking what he learned during his student years and transforming it into shaping the lives of younger students is nothing short of amazing!
I am humbled to have had a small part in imparting into the life of Franklin Bermudez, and so very grateful for Ladies Ministries Student Support that made it possible over the course of so many years, the ongoing success of the Bible School training program in Nicaragua. Franklin Bermudez is just one of many men of God whose lives have been impacted by the training program in Nicaragua and are leading the work today in their country.
The Student Story of Emmanuel (Guinea)
The Logan Blackmon family were appointed to Guinea, Africa in 2017 as the first resident missionaries. Guinea was a nation of 13 million people and only 3 UPCI churches. There was a young man named Emmanuel who had a huge heart for ministry. As the Blackmons began their first deputation Missionary Craig Sully reached out and asked to partner with them to finance Emmanuel to go to Bible School in Ivory Coast. He was willing and ready, and so were we! This was a huge sacrifice for Emmanuel and his new wife. It meant that he would leave his family for two years and move to Ivory Coast to complete his two-year diploma. He was present for the birth of his first child by phone (see picture). He would only be able to travel to see them a couple of weeks here and there. His wife pushed him to fulfill this dream and calling!
During his two years of study, the Blackmon family completed deputation and arrived on the field. They started a church in the capital city and when Emmanuel completed his Bible School, they brought him alongside them as the assistant pastor for a year. After that year, he was installed as the head pastor, and he grew the church from 50 - 60 members to 150 in the first two years of his pastorate!
Thank you, Ladies Ministries, and G.A.T.S. for making this possible!
Bro and Sis Blackmon were able to start night Bible School classes through the G.A.T.S. program in Guinea, and in the first term they had 8 students complete the certificate level. They also saw many of our pastoral team go through a 6-week hybrid G.A.T.S. training, including Emmanuel's wife! Pastors who had come from denominal backgrounds were shocked as their eyes were opened further to the truth of God's word!
The work in Guinea has grown from 3 to 11 churches in the first 4 years. Thank you, Ladies Ministries, for being a HUGE part of that! Your support makes the difference!
The Student Story of Christian Andronache (Belgium)
as told by missionary Kevin Wallace
"While searching for love, hoping to one day have a wife by my side, God wanted to show me His love first so that I could be under His blessing. I asked God for this a lot because I wanted to have a family. Through this, I found myself in a small church in Nivelles, Belgium (Le Rocher), which was very friendly and welcoming. It was as if God wanted to filter me first. From being an Orthodox Christian, I became Pentecostal. I discovered a unique and living God. I understood that I had been lied to since birth about the divinity. One thing is certain: my God does not build on lies.
My pastor, Philippe Norroy, recommended that I attend Bible school in Brussels, Belgium. I accepted the invitation and I am very happy because I have discovered many answers to my questions and it helps me to share this with other Orthodox Christians in a more theological way. I continue to spread the Word of the Lord Jesus Christ. Today I have a wonderful family, we are blessed.
(Brother Christian has returned to his home country of Romania. He attends the UPC in Bucharest. He does not live close to the capital city and therefore can only attend once per month. In his home area of the country, he is witnessing to those around him, with the desire to see a church plant in that part of Romania.)
" En cherchant l'amour, en espérant avoir un jour une femme à mes côtés , Dieu a voulu me montrer le sien d'abord pour que je puisse être sous sa bénédiction. J'ai beaucoup demandé à Dieu cela car je voulais avoir ma famille. A travers cela je me suis retrouvé dans une petite église à Nivelles (Le Rocher) , très conviviale et chaleureuse. C'est comme si Dieu a voulu me filtrer d'abord, d’Orthodoxe je suis devenu Pentecôtiste. J'ai découvert un Dieu Unique et VIVANT. J'ai compris que j'avais qu’on m’avait menti depuis ma naissance sur la divinité. Une chose est sûre, mon Dieu ne bâtit pas sur le mensonge.
Mon Pasteur Philippe Norroy m'as recommandé de faire l'école biblique . J'ai accepté et je suis très content car ainsi j'ai découvert plein de réponses à mes questions et ça m'aide à partager cela avec des autres orthodoxes de manière plus théologique. Je continue de répandre la Parole du Seigneur Jésus Christ . Aujourd'hui j'ai une famille magnifique, nous sommes bénis. Gloire à Son Saint Nom Jésus Christ. Chaleureusement à vous. Frère Christian ANDRONACHE. "
(Frère Christian est retourné dans son pays natal, la Roumanie. Il fréquente l'EPU à Bucarest. Il n'habite pas près de la capitale et ne peut donc y aller qu'une fois par mois. Dans sa région natale, il témoigne auprès de son entourage, avec le désir de voir une église s'implanter dans cette partie de la Roumanie. Missionnaire Kevin Wallace – Belgique
The Student Story of Anaïs Louise (Mauritius)
as shared by missionary Paula Richardson
Hello everyone! My name is Anaïs Louise, I am 19 years old, and it has now been 3 years since I gave my life to Jesus. I’m truly happy to share with you my testimony about my journey and my experience at Bible School.
Since I was a little girl, I have always loved learning and discovering new things. And when the Pastor announced that the new Bible course was going to begin, I did not hesitate for a second — I immediately volunteered, because I wanted to know God’s Word better and deepen my faith.
At the beginning, as a new believer, there were many things I did not understand. But as the classes went on, I learned so many things that helped me grow spiritually and that still help me today in my daily life. Thanks to that, I can now confidently say that I am able to share the Word with those around me and teach others about my Jesus.
I am really thankful for our teachers, because they are patient, attentive, and always explain things with clarity and love. Each lesson has been a wonderful discovery for me, and even though I had to make some sacrifices to be present and on time, I can truly say it was all worth it. Up to now, it has been a beautiful journey, and I believe the best is yet to come, because with the Lord Jesus, everything is possible.
Before I finish, I want to thank the Lord Jesus for His wisdom and for giving me the privilege of studying His Word. I also want to thank each teacher for their patience and the time they devote to us. I know they make many sacrifices to teach us, and I pray that the Lord blesses them abundantly.
The Student Story of Mylene D'Arbeau (Trinidad and Tobago))
As shared by missionaries Ron & Terry Brian
Hallelujah and blessed be the name of our Loving Almighty God. I’m sister Mylene D'Abreau from the Philippines but now I’m living in Trinidad and Tobago.
I just want to thank God for who He is in my life, He is everything to me. I got baptized in His precious name way back 1999 in my beloved country. As the days passed my relationship to JESUS CHRIST is getting sweeter and sweeter. GOD is awesome, great and wonderful.
It’s a great privilege to be a part of the body of CHRIST here in U.P.C.T.T and mostly a part of the Bible School as a Child of GOD, one body in JESUS CHRIST. I’m so blessed and thankful for this opportunity to be a part of Bible School here in Trinidad and Tobago. I really enjoy every time we are studying our classes with our precious, humble, loving, respectful, and dedicated Sir and Ma'am Brian our professors. Thank you both and I really appreciate you both and I love you both. I love how they teach us. I love their smile, their laughter, and their love to us.
Thank you Sir and Ma'am BRIAN. I really appreciate you both, your love and your dedication. May our Loving, Almighty GOD continue to protect you use you both, bless you, and your whole family, and also your ministry for His Glory 🙌.
In Proverbs 16:9
A man's heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.
When I planned to enrolled a Bible School, I asked myself: after this, what is the next step? Every day that question is still in my mind, till one day my question get answered.
And it is so clear to me that this is the will of the Lord after I finished my Bible School: by God’s Grace, love and Mercy I want to reach out to all the parts of my family that still didn't accept JESUS CHRIST as their personal savior. I want them to understand who JESUS is in their lives and I want them to be Baptized in the precious wonderful name of JESUS CHRIST. To OBEY ACTS 2: 38.
The Student Story of Bobby D'Arbeau (Trinidad and Tobago)
shared by missionaries Ron & Terry Brian
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
After completing my studies at the Bible school affiliated with the United Pentecostal Church, I am filled with a sense of purpose and commitment to serve my community and faith.
My primary goal is to actively participate in church ministries, focusing on evangelism, teaching, and pastoral care. I plan to utilize the knowledge and spiritual insights gained during my training to inspire others and foster a deeper understanding of Biblical principles.
Furthermore, I aim to engage in community outreach programs, providing support and guidance to those in need, and promoting moral and spiritual growth within my local area. I am also considering further theological studies to deepen my understanding and enhance my ability to serve effectively.
My long-term vision includes establishing a faith-based organization that offers educational and social services, helping individuals to develop their spiritual and personal lives. I am committed to living a life that exemplifies the teachings of Jesus Christ, and I aspire to be a positive influence in my community, encouraging others to pursue a life of faith and service.
Overall, my plans are centered around spreading the gospel, nurturing spiritual growth, and making a meaningful impact through dedicated service and leadership within the church and broader community.
The Student Story of Eldar (Access Challenged Nation)
Unfortunately, due to security concerns and the critical need to protect our students, their families, their groups, and the ongoing work, we are extremely limited in what we can publicly share—especially details such as names or photographs. Though, I would like to share one story of a man somewhere in Asia. For the sake of security, we will call this man Eldar, a local name meaning “leader” or “elder.”
Eldar first approached us nearly a year and a half ago as a former Muslim. Struggling with doubts about what his “Christian” friends had told him, he reached out to me for a private meeting. Although I had never previously heard of him, we carefully vetted his background, and after determining it was safe, met discreetly in my office.
His first question to me, asked in broken English, was, “Can you please explain how you understand the Trinity?” I responded honestly, “Sir, this will be a very short meeting because I do not understand the Trinity. I find no evidence of it in the Bible.”
Eldar nodded thoughtfully and said, “I have same understanding, and Jesus has revealed to me that He alone is God. Can you explain what you believe?” For the next hour, I carefully presented the plan of salvation and the Oneness message. Afterward, Eldar nodded again, saying, “This is exactly what God has showed me and I accept everything you have said. I have been looking for others who shares this understanding.”He paused, “Also, God also told me you would have a word for me. What is the word from God for me?”
We prayed together briefly, and then I lifted my head and said, “Eldar, the word from God is that you must be washed in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of your sins.”
He nodded, “I agree. And I am ready whenever you are.”
That evening, Eldar and his Muslim son-in-law were baptized in Jesus’ name. Eldar came up out of the water speaking in tongues. Soon afterward, he returned to his home country in Central Asia.
Six months later, Eldar came back to us due to the passing of his father, and since then, he has faithfully attended our underground Bible School. He declared that he needed to learn more about truth before returning home again. Eldar has already been imprisoned multiple times for his faith, severely beaten, and had his family threatened countless times.
Yet, the gospel is all that matters to him.
We have seen more than a dozen of his Muslim family members from multiple countries baptized in Jesus’ name and filled with the Holy Ghost. This includes some of the very family
members who once persecuted and physically attacked him. Today, many former persecutors actively serve in underground congregations and leadership.
What makes Eldar’s story even more special is that he has been blind since his teenage years—a blindness made permanent by severe beatings from the authorities because of his faith. To share the gospel in restricted and radical regions, Eldar has memorized large portions of the Bible and Bible School teachings. He is blind. But through him, God is opening spiritually blinded eyes. Eldar uses his blindness as a gift from God, allowing him to move into areas that others would never be permitted for the sake of the gospel and the Name.
I share Eldar’s story with you now because, even as I write this, he is traveling to and residing in highly volatile and restricted areas to teach other underground leaders the truths he learned in our underground GATS Bible School, and is working on launching a covert GATS school in his home country. The Sunday night he left, before departing on this journey, Eldar hugged me tightly and whispered, “Goodbye, sir. I’m not sure we will meet again. I don’t know if I’ll survive this trip. But if we don’t meet again here, we’ll see each other on the other side, with Jesus.”
I hugged him, fighting back tears, and lifted my voice in a prayer over him and his travel companion.
I could only reply, “May the will of the Lord be done.”
Although you may never personally meet Eldar, see his picture, or learn the real names of the dozens like him, please know that they are profoundly impacting the Islamic world and the underground church.
Note: over a dozen of his former Muslim family members are currently enrolled as GATS students throughout Asia. Several are studying because they believe God has called them to be pastors. They desire to reach their people with this truth that made them free.
The Student Story of Harimana Rahagason (Madagascar)
This is a story of a husband-and-wife pastor team. They are both PKs (in fact, the wife’s parents are our Regional Missionaries planting a church in Mayotte).
Pastor Harimanana Rahagason writes: — I am full of gratitude to Jesus because I was able to complete the Associate Level of GATS Bible training program. That training had an immediate impact on my ministry: I was appointed as an Assistant Pastor in a well-established church—a congregation whose members are already very knowledgeable about doctrine and the Scriptures.
It was a great challenge for me, as someone just beginning in ministry, to serve in such an experienced church. However, because of the solid foundation provided by my GATS studies, I was not only able to face that challenge but to succeed from the very start. The in-depth study of the Scriptures gave me the theological understanding needed to discuss complex topics and to work effectively alongside seasoned pastors and many well-versed believers.
Sister Finaritra Raniloson Rahagason writes: — It is a joy for me to write this testimony because I have received my GATS Certificate. I give thanks to Jesus, and to Him alone be all the glory.
For many years, my spouse and I ran from the call of God, but we never found peace. It always felt like something was missing in our lives. During the National Youth Camp in July 2023, we both felt deeply convicted and decided to enroll in Bible School. After praying and fasting, we immediately approached the leaders, and in September of that same year, we were accepted as students. As soon as we arrived at the Ambohidratrimo Campus in Madagascar, we felt that the emptiness inside was finally filled, and we experienced true joy and peace right away.
The training lasted two years. It wasn’t easy, but I truly felt that the hand of Jesus guided, counseled, and strengthened me through it all. All the courses we studied were valuable, but I would like to highlight a few that marked me most: The Role of a Pastor’s Wife, Christian Living, The Acts of the Apostles, and Evangelism. These lessons have deeply impacted me, and I know I will need them in my service to Jesus. Learning is wonderful, but for me, remembering and applying those lessons in daily life is what truly matters. I needed this training so that I could gain understanding, support my husband in his pastoral ministry, and experience the joy of serving the Lord.
I am truly blessed to have studied at the Bible School, and I am overjoyed to have received my GATS certificate. All glory to Jesus alone, for I received the honor of being Valedictorian of my class. I thank Jesus because He made it all possible. I also thank my husband, who continually supported me throughout my studies, especially as we worked together in the ministry. I’m grateful to our children, who have also supported us, and to my parents, who passed the torch of faith to us, since we both come from families of preachers. Special thanks as well to our spiritual parents, who prayed for us and guided us in the right path, and to our church members — the flock we shepherd.
Our goal is to win lost souls and to keep them steadfast until the coming of Jesus.
The Student Story of Lois Boudeuse (Mauritius, Africa)
Shared by Missionaries Chris and Paula Richardson
Before joining Bible School in 2023, I had no idea of what was to come even though my sister had already attended it in the past. I was about to start my final year of secondary school taking AP classes which meant lots of studying was ahead. So, joining Bible School would not have made a lot of sense to most students my age, but I still chose to do it. The first semester was not too difficult, since my AP courses were not hard at first. Going further, things started to get serious, what I was learning was accumulating on both sides, which meant tests were coming more often. It was a source of stress for me because I did not want to fail on any part. Sometimes, I would get by nearly failing, and sometimes results would flip, meaning when I did good in Bible School tests I would not do so good in my AP classes, which sometimes discouraged me to continue learning. But still I remembered what was preached on the last day of 2023, that 2024 would be a year of sacrifice. I knew I would not fail, because going to Bible School, learning about Jesus, I knew He would not fail me. I put all my trust and faith in God once more, and I succeeded in both studies.
Going through Bible School has answered questions I didn’t know I needed to ask. Moreover, I was able to answer questions that myself did not know the answer to. Things I could apply it to my own life, which I think is what helped me to achieve a more proper life balance. One time another student going to the university I now attend (he is not a Christian but had studied some religions) asked me about some things in the Bible, abstract questions that we had just learned yesterday, and I was amazed once again by the timing of God. I felt more confident to talk about Jesus.
There is also the fact that through joining with other people from other UPC churches, I felt more unity. We might have been going to different churches, but we have the same spirit, and it kind of acted as a fellowship, growing together has really brought us more together and I am happy of that. For all these moments, going to Bible School has never felt more right.
The Student Story of Oneyda Mejia (Honduras)
as told by missionary Lynne Jewett
This story is very impacting. A lady named Oneyda Mejia wanted to study at the Bible School. But she had very obvious physical challenges, being partially crippled.
She travelled 7 hours on horseback or mule and then 2 hours on the back of a pick-up each month to receive her Bible School classes. She traveled from Yocon, Olancho to Guayupe, Olancho in a very mountainous region of Honduras.
The President of the UPC of Honduras, Bro. Ricardo Licona, would send her funds to pay for the rent of the “bestia” (mule or horse) and for the pick-up ride. She did this every month for 6 years!
In order to get to her graduation in Tegucigalpa she had to travel for three days.
Now that she has graduated from Bible School, Sis Oneyda is determined to take the gospel into unreached areas of the mountains of Honduras.
The Student Story of Patrina Carillo (Trinidad & Tobago)
Shared by Missionaries Ron and Terry Brian
I decided to enroll in Bible School because I have always felt a strong calling to minister and wanted to be equipped with a deeper understanding of God’s Word. I first enrolled in 2002 at the age of 17, but due to circumstances beyond my control, I was unable to finish.
Over the years, I went through many challenging life experiences. One of which led me into depression and hopelessness, where I even wanted to quit on God. But in that place, the Lord reminded me of His plan and purpose for my life.
In February 2025, I enrolled in Bible School for the fifth time; this time with a greater determination to persevere no matter the circumstances. It is a huge commitment, but God has given me the grace and I know He will continue to see me through.
After graduation, my desire is to be heavily involved in the teaching ministry of the church. I feel a strong call to educate people and help them grow in their faith, building a solid and lasting relationship with Jesus Christ. My greatest desire is that others would come to know the transforming grace of God, just as I have experienced it.
Patrina Carrillo recently published her story: "Only By God's Grace".
The Student Story of Pierrette Sounence (Haiti)
Shared by Missionaries Ron and Terry Brian
Good morning from the IBIC family, Special greetings to Missionaries Brian, and my Pastor Boncœur. I am thankful to all the other collaborators.
I thank God for the opportunity and privilege Pastor Boncœur has given me to share what I would like to do after graduation.
I am Brother Pierrette Sounouce, a third-year student. After my graduation, I would like to continue studying the Word of God so that I can teach others correctly. For that reason, I would like to specialize in “leadership.” May God bless us all.
The Student Story of Pita Levaci (Fiji)
as shared by missionary Troy Wickett
We are so very excited what God is doing throughout the nation of Fiji. God is moving in a mighty way. Just the other day we received a report from one of our ACTS Fiji Bible School students Bro Pita Levaci.
A little backstory - This young man felt a call of God upon his life and desired to go to Bible School (Two (2) year Diploma Program). He is from the northern Island in Fiji “Vanua Levu”. So leaving his three (3) bedroom home he moved with his wife and 2 children into the house with his wife’s two (2) brothers. It’s a two (2) bedroom low income house, each of the brothers have a room, so Pita and his family of four (4) share a corner of the small living room. The brothers are not working so Pita’s wife makes Samosas and sells them for 80 cents each to make money to live. Pita is in his second year with only a few months left till he graduates, yes it has been a huge sacrifice, but has been so blessed to be able to attend one of our GATS Bible Schools; ACTS Fiji!!
He was sharing they wanted to do a crusade in his home village of Nakobo. Nakobo is on the northern island, Vanua Levu, here in Fiji. They made all the preparations, building shelter to hold services, rented all the sound equipment, and they visited the chief and elders for permission, but they were denied and the police were called to ensure they didn’t have service. They reached out again the following night. Denied again. The enemy didn’t want the crusade to happen and was trying to prevent it. But the third night they tried again, and God opened the door for them, they were finally granted permission to hold the crusade. The Northern District Superintendent Bro Jolame Savoka ministered in a powerful way and 35 people repented and were baptized in Jesus Name!!!! The following week we sent a missions team in to do a follow-up service and teaching. 2 more chose to be baptized in Jesus Name!!! We are rejoicing what God is doing in the village of Nakobo. Thankful for the support of Mother’s Memorial for students who are willing to make such sacrifices, and follow God’s will!!
