Last month, we shared some of our upcoming plans via a LIVE update. You can still watch the recording on Facebook and YouTube, but I would like to share some of our upcoming plans in this prayer letter.
Rosie has 1 month of language school left. As she finishes up her formal studies, we are planning our upcoming furlough. If all goes according to plan, we will be in the U.S. for a short furlough from March to August. We are looking forward to re-connecting with our home church as well as reporting to supporting churches. A number of churches have already reached out to have us come by, but we still have some openings left. If you would like us to come by your church, please email me at james@reachingjapan.com.
After our furlough, we will be returning to Japan to plant a church in the Nagoya area. Nagoya is the third largest metropolitan area in Japan. The metro area has roughly the same number of people as metro Chicago but is about 1/10 the size. During February, I will be making a couple trips to the area to visit with those who are currently serving in and around the city. Pray with us as we learn more about the city and seek God’s direction for where to plant a church. Unless the Lord builds, we labor in vain.
Mr. COVID has been popular on the news again. Tokyo went into a state of emergency in early January. The two other large metro areas in Japan (Osaka and Nagoya) soon followed. Here in Niigata, cases haven’t been nearly as bad. However, it is now common to see events canceled or postponed due to the current situation. We are still able to have in-person services, but the church plant is feeling the effects.
But the Gospel still needs to be proclaimed! Although large gatherings are frowned upon, we had an idea.
Using the internet, we are planning a 3-night online “crusade” for March 4th, 5th, and 6th. Two other Baptist churches in the area are partnering with us to make this possible. Each night there will be music and preaching. Additionally, we are looking to use Zoom as a way to do an online “altar call” and talk with those who respond. Please specifically pray that we can reach 300 people who have never heard the Gospel through this crusade.
Many changes and events are quickly approaching. We covet your prayers!
Yours for Japan,
James Miyashita