Patience and perseverance

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6.9)

The Institut Biblique de Nogent’s (IBN) graduation ceremony at the end of June is always a source of great encouragement. It marks the moment when students, having persevered through three or four years of full-time study and internships, are sent out into pastoral ministry, missionary service overseas, or further theological education. And you, as supporters, are an essential part of that mission, as one Scottish student shares:

“IBN has given me an amazing opportunity to better understand my Bible, my faith, and pastoral ministry. In September, I will begin a pastoral internship in the south of France. Thanks to my studies, I feel much more prepared for this calling that has been on my heart for the past four years. Without the support of my church, friends, family – and generous donors like you – I wouldn’t have been able to complete my training. Thank you for helping to keep this amazing Bible Institute alive. Whether it’s maintaining our buildings, paying our professors, or reducing tuition costs, your support makes a real difference.”

We’re especially grateful for an additional 9,000 € toward our campus renovation projects donated by France Mission supporters over the past 12 months. Your generosity continues to sustain us through this long-term effort, which truly demands patience and perseverance. Much of this year’s work has been behind the scenes – securing planning permission, gathering quotes, submitting grant applications – but it has been no less essential.

Two major renovations were completed this year. In December, after six months of work, repairs to the roof of our historic building were completed and the scaffolding was finally removed. The building now looks beautiful – if you remember to look up! Another vital but now invisible project was the complete replacement of the waste water system across campus. We are thankful for these unglamorous but critical improvements.

More roofing ahead!
Unfortunately, another campus building has suffered repeated leaks and now requires extensive repairs. The plan is to raise the roof framework, install new roofing and Velux windows, and add proper thermal insulation. At the same time, we’ll renovate the balconies to create safe and secure access. A second upcoming project involves automating the main entrance gate to improve safety and accessibility. This will help ensure a secure living environment for on-site residents and the many visitors who attend daily activities and events at the IBN.

For this next phase of work, we estimate a need of 150,000 €. Any support – financial, practical, or prayerful – is deeply appreciated.

Please pray with us:

·        For students leaving the IBN to begin pastoral ministry, that they would teach and lead faithfully and be a blessing to their churches

·        That God would call more people to train for ministry in France

·        For Anne Gangloff and Cherif Bouriahi as they oversee and implement the renovation work

·        That God would continue to provide the necessary funds