“What a thrill to be involved in these people’s lives, see their progress, and see them move on to serve in God's church!”  

When Moses Matonya, former principal of Msalato Theological college was asked what he thought the greatest need was in Tanzania, he replied: “I think it is the knowledge of the Bible. We lack biblical teaching. This means that people are not very sure what they believe and they are easily swept away.” However there are very few theological books in Swahili and studies beyond Certificate level are only available in English. 

Mission partner Carol Derbyshire runs the Dodoma Language Institute at Msalato Theological College. The Institute began in 1997 to improve the English level of clergy and lay in the diocese so that they could go on to further training and therefore be better equipped to serve the Church. Here are some of their stories… 

“Caleb Loan only completed primary education. He has since done a Certificate and a Diploma course at Msalato, returning after each to parish ministry. Four years ago, he returned to college to do a B.A. degree completely through self-study. The English department helped him with checking essays, although the content got too difficult for me in the end! Caleb is now Area Dean and a part-time lecturer at Msalato. This is a huge achievement through sheer hard work and determination, and help from the Theological and English staff. 

In June I saw the first Diploma group at Msalato graduate and move on to ministry. I have seen them blossom as their confidence in ministry and English has grown. One is now youth leader, six are ordained and in parishes, one is joining a degree course, another is in ministry in his church and finding more and more use for English. What a thrill to be involved in these people’s lives, see their progress, and see them move on to serve in God’s church! 

I remember from an earlier group, a shy Justin in Year 1, who became more confident in preaching in Swahili in Year 2, and came alive in all aspects of ministry in English by Year 3. Language can unlock such huge opportunities for people. It is thrilling to be involved in that and to see them go on to serve the Lord.” 

  Crosslinks magazine April 2006 index