Mission Trips
This past year we went to Japan twice for mission work, cultural experiences, and of course meeting up with friends. Our first trip was in June with a team of nine. During this trip we mostly helped out Nishinada Christ Church with English outreach classes, children’s programs, and sharing our faith.
Special Treat
Through a series of connections prior to this mission trip a few of our team members had the privilege of meeting with some dignitaries from Hakusan. Where I live we have a sister city arrangement with Hakusan and our University. The time we spent there was lovely from beginning to end. We visited a Taiko drum factory, rode a ropeway up a mountain, ate authentic Japanese food, and visited a beautiful shrine. They treated us with extraordinary honor and kindness throughout the day. For me it surely was an unforgettable experience and most definitely a special treat!!
Meeting with the Students
During the June mission trip we also met up with some of the students who attended our Japanese parties regularly at my house while they were in America. Having the opportunity to spend time with them in Japan strengthens our connection. Most certainly attending church with the students touches my heart deeply. Usually it’s their first time to go to church.
Making New Friends
Our team’s favorite place to visit every morning for breakfast was a yummy bakery down the street from the church. We made friends with the people who own the bakery. They are so sweet and the pastries are amazing.
Partnering with Several Churches
There were several other churches we had the opportunity to partner with during the June trip as well.
It is a pleasure working alongside these amazing churches in Japan.
Second Mission Trip
Then in September/October we returned again to make some connections in Tokushima where our Japan Reach missionary, Marty Holman, moved. We had a team of five. This trip was very successful making more connections with several churches there.
John 13:35 Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.
Japan Reach in America
Besides going to Japan last year we also reached out to the Japanese students in America. I really enjoy having them in my home whether it’s for a meal, games, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or an extended winter break.
Ongoing Mission Work in Japan
Marty Holman, our Japan Reach missionary, has been busy this past year. He has done everything from organizing our mission trips to teaching English, preaching in Japanese and English services, translating, teaching at a university, moving to Tokushima, as well as launching his very own puppet troupe. In addition to all of these things he has been featured in magazines, newspapers, and an hour-long television program. I probably left out a dozen other things. All this to say, we are especially proud of the ongoing mission work happening in Japan. God has been blessings him with some amazing opportunities.
Team Work
I am very grateful for the Japan Reach team. God has blessed us all with different talents and abilities that work so well together. John Criswell has done an incredible job creating this website, promotional materials, and bringing humor into everything. A joyful heart does good like a medicine. ๐ Every person who helps out during our ministry in America or goes on mission trips with us is vital. Team work makes the load lighter.
More to Come….
There is so much more I could share with you. Testimonies are coming in about lives being changed through seeds that were planted last year. One student asked me where she should start reading in her Bible. This is so exciting!!!!! Every once in a while I will blog about what is happening. Keeping you updated is important to me. Thank you for being a part of Japan Reach. Having your support it is like wind at our backs pushing us along. ๐ Thank you very much!
Blessings,
Tina