In just a few short days, six students from Tyndale University College & Seminary will be embarking on a missions trip to Japan, or Nihon as they say it! The team is comprised of: Colin Owen, Jessica Sharpe, Abby Scott, Joanna Gorres, Jonathan (Jono) Beckwith, and Jon Nip.
Despite many efforts and the technological advancements, Japan continues to be one of the most unreached countries in the world. Though the culture, especially younger generations, have been influenced by Western ideologies and ways of living, this country remains rooted in Shinto, Buddhism, and numerous cults. Native Japanese people may even know some gospel songs, though they do not understand the words they are singing, nor does it impact their lives.
Our team will be using our creative and artistic gifts (music, dance, and drama) to interact, build relationships, and share the gospel message of Jesus within schools, events, and church groups. Included in this opportunity is the chance for our team to lead worship for OMF’s East Japan Conference. In addition, we will be helping the missionary family, the Ghents, working along side
them in their passion and call to minister in their particular area of Aomorie. There may even be oppurtunities to use our Canadian cooking chops in their bookstore!
In preparation for the trip, we have spent time praying with one another, meeting up to team-build, sharing our testimonies, assigning specific roles, and researching Japanese customs. While in Toronto, we took the oppurtunity to visit a Japanese church to observe their worship services and particular style of ministry. It was a valuable learning experience as we were able to meet with the pastors and even the Ghent's son, Micah, who has been in Canada for a while. They answered many of our cultural and church questions and gave us all a somewhat crash course on Japanese phrases. Needless to say, we were all falling over ourselves in trying to pronounce the words, but we'll be ready to go when we get there :) Lastly, the father of the missionary family, (Martin) had to make a urgent return to Canada for some family reasons and he was gracious enough to meet us immediately after arriving in Toronto. He gave us a brief overview of what we will be involved with and let us know some answers to our logistical questions.
Over the last few months, God has given us a heart for Japan and her people and has been preparing our path. Though in many ways we are stepping out in faith, we are all excited to go to serve, be a blessing to the missionary family, and see the the amazing things the Lord has set for us to do, experience, and be transformed by. We have already been very blessed with wonderful supporters, who have commited to praying for and financially supporting us. (including you!) As we start this journey, we would ask that you continue to uphold us in your prayers.
Please pray for:
-the unity, health, and safety of our team
-the reception of the gospel message by Japanese people
-the believers and all ministry workers in Japan
-the missionary family
Keep checking this blog for updated news, specific prayer items, and more pictures!
Sayonara and PEACE!
Jon
