The Diocese of Victoria Nyanza in the ‘Lake Zone’ of the Anglican Church of Tanzania has a special place in the hearts of those at BUILD. From the initial visits there by BUILD Church of Uganda in 2013 the seed grew slowly, but in more recent years the roots have gone deeper and the fruit is increasingly evident, as this outstanding letter demonstrates. So much so that, with the author’s permission, it deserves a wider audience.
Dear BUILD Partners’ Trustees
Greetings! I trust that you are doing well. We thank God that we are all doing well on our side too.
My primary purpose in writing is to greet you, but also to share some encouraging news from our Diocese. Recently, our Bishop ordained eight Deacons and seven Pastors. Among them were six servants of God who had not received formal theological education from any theological college. However, they successfully completed the BUILD courses, which have proven to be an invaluable resource in their ministry.
Throughout the training, we witnessed remarkable practical growth, spiritual maturity, and significant transformation in their leadership and ministry. Based on the competence, commitment, and effectiveness they demonstrated, the Diocesan leadership unanimously approved them for ordination to their respective ministries.
We can confidently say that the BUILD programme has become a tremendous blessing to our Diocese. Our Diocese covers a very large geographical area, and we have a strong vision of planting many new churches. This vision requires a growing number of well-equipped ministers to serve these congregations. Unfortunately, securing financial support to send many servants of God to formal theological colleges at the same time is extremely challenging. BUILD has provided a practical, accessible, and highly effective alternative for preparing faithful and capable church leaders.
One of the greatest strengths of BUILD is its emphasis on practical ministry. The programme equips servants of God with skills that can be immediately applied in the field, resulting in effective leadership and fruitful ministry. We have seen first-hand how BUILD is helping us bridge the gap created by the shortage of trained ministers while maintaining a high standard of ministry and leadership.
Therefore, we would like to respectfully request that BUILD continues its ministry and partnership with DVN. To us, this programme is not simply another training initiative—it has become a strategic tool for strengthening the Church, expanding God’s Kingdom, and preparing effective servants for the work ahead. The positive impact is evident, and the difference it is making is undeniable.
On behalf of the Diocese, I would like to express our sincere gratitude for your commitment, vision, and investment in raising church leaders through BUILD. Your support is bearing lasting fruit, and we pray that God will continue to bless you, your families, and the entire BUILD ministry abundantly.
Thank you very much for your continued partnership and faithful service.
May God richly bless you.
Yours sincerely,
Rev. Canon Kepha Mlugu
Executive Secretary, Diocese Victoria Nyanza, Anglican Church of Tanzania
