July 31- Aug 4, 2019 Serving at Yokosuka Nagasawa
- Japan OMP Team
- Aug 4, 2019
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 6, 2019
Hi folks!
We spent the weekend at Yokosuka Nagasawa, an hour south of Yokohama by train. They’re a small but vibrant community and we felt warmly received.
On Friday, we met with the youth for an afternoon party where they gave us a lesson in making Takoyaki (Japanese flour balls with octopus). I enjoyed meeting two students who are leaders of their youth groups. It was encouraging to see them so outspoken about their faith and willing to step up as leaders.
On Saturday, we led a half day children’s camp. The camp ran about 3 hours and so our schedule was packed with story time, crafts, songs, and a watermelon piñata game. 8 kids came, all from families who do not attend church. We taught from the story of Jesus’ baptism and presented the gospel, and the kids answered many questions afterwards. We join the church in praying for these seeds to take root in their hearts.
On Sunday our team served at both services. Daniel played with the worship band and gave a short morning sermon. In the 2nd service, I gave my testimony and Trevor followed with a sermon. Meanwhile, Ai translated for all of us. While on stage I noticed that the small sanctuary— no bigger than a studio apartment— was filled with people across all generations. Grandparents, adults, and kids-- an encouraging sight!
I’m thankful for this opportunity to serve with Yokosuka Nagasawa. From our 3 days with the Pastors Ayako and Masato, I witnessed a ministry built by faithful and prolonged toiling. Their community might be smaller than most, but their is a lively and vibrant one.
Our prayer requests for the next couple days are for God to:
1. Provide strength during the week as we will be on the road for the next 6 days
2. Encourage the youth of Yokosuka Nagasawa to continue firmly in their faith
3. Endow the pastors of the church with strength and vision as they serve their community
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