By God’s grace, the Global Baptist Training Foundation (GBTF) Western Uganda Training Center in Mbarara City successfully held a transformative and impactful training event from December 9th to 13th, 2024. The event was an incredible blessing, with 51 students participating, many of whom are pastors or church leaders. This turnout not only demonstrates a growing hunger for biblical education in Uganda but also speaks to the desire for deeper spiritual formation and the equipping of leaders for ministry. The atmosphere was full of energy, and students were visibly excited as they engaged in the teachings and fellowshipped with one another.
The training centered on Homiletics I and Homiletics II (Practical Sessions). These courses are vital in equipping pastors and leaders with the tools they need to preach and communicate the Word of God effectively. Through the practical sessions, students were not only taught biblical principles but were also given opportunities to practice sermon delivery, learn homiletic techniques, and receive valuable feedback. This hands-on approach allowed them to refine their skills in real-time, making the learning experience truly impactful.
A particularly notable session was led by Pastor Ntare, one of the trainers, who shared the Principles of Reading and Comprehension. This session was a gift to the students, many of whom expressed that it deepened their understanding of Scripture and improved their ability to engage with the Word in a more meaningful way. By learning how to read with comprehension, the students were better equipped to rightly divide the Word of Truth and apply it in their personal lives and ministries. The positive feedback from the students was a testament to the powerful effect this teaching had on them.
The success of the training would not have been possible without the generous contributions of local churches, businesses, and individuals who willingly gave their finances, time, and resources. The community’s support was a clear expression of the body of Christ working in unity to advance the Kingdom of God. Special thanks go to the Pastors Fellowship, which meets at Pastor Naboth’s church, for their significant role in organizing and coordinating the event. Their unwavering dedication and tireless efforts ensured that everything ran smoothly and that the participants were well cared for.
At the conclusion of the training, the students made a heartfelt pledge to contribute towards the next GBTF classes. Their willingness to invest in the future of the training reflects their commitment to the mission of GBTF and the importance they place on spreading biblical education. Many of them also expressed how the training had not only equipped them with new knowledge but had also revitalized their passion for ministry. The next GBTF training is scheduled for May 19th to 23rd, 2025, during the national school holidays, and we are excited to see what God has in store for the upcoming session. We believe that He will continue to work powerfully through this training ministry to raise up faithful and effective leaders.
One of the most encouraging outcomes of the training was the commitment made by a student from Kasese District. He expressed his deep sense of calling to plant a church in his area, demonstrating the tangible impact of the training. This is a beautiful reminder of the power of The Great Commission — to go and make disciples of all nations. It is our prayer that this student, and many others like him, will be empowered by the Holy Spirit to fulfill the call of God on their lives and take the gospel to places where it has not yet been proclaimed.
As we move forward, we ask for your continued prayers for GBTF and its mission to spread the gospel through the teaching of biblical education. We are confident that God will continue to raise up leaders who are not only knowledgeable in His Word but also passionate about sharing it with others. The training serves to refresh pastors and church leaders, giving them the tools they need to be effective in their ministries. We are grateful for all that God has done through this training, and we give Him all the glory for the positive response from the students and the lasting impact on their lives.
Please continue to pray for GBTF worldwide as we carry out this vital work of equipping leaders, planting churches, and advancing the Kingdom of God. We trust that as we remain faithful, God will continue to use this ministry to bring about transformation in the lives of individuals and communities, fulfilling His purpose in the nations.