January, 2018

January, 2018

With the cold winds of January came the beginning of the new year with some new students joining classes.  Mrs. O is one of the new adult students.  A friend invited her to visit the Monday morning adult English conversation class.  Mrs. O is a very cheerful woman who believes in showing kindness to all around her.  She works as a volunteer with handicapped children and young adults.

In fall of 2017, Kathy decided to try having a Bible study (evangelistic) directly following the English Conversation Class.  We have tried numerous methods over the years to include Bible teaching along with our English.  The methods tend to vary a lot depending on the students.  One woman of the 6 members seemed more interested than usual in the Bible and had started visiting Sunday services occasionally. (Mrs. N).  Kathy was concerned though that the level of the messages were too difficult for a new seeker.  Mrs. N became faithful in staying for the Bible studies on Mondays, along with others who stayed now and then.

By January, when Mrs. O joined the class, there were 3 women who were staying for Bible study almost every week.  She was intrigued and she began to stay for the study as well.  The study is called Firm Foundations and starts at the very beginning -- with the Creation.

Mrs Itoh (left) and Mrs. N.

Mrs. Itoh, who was saved and baptized at Agape Bible Church was able to attend one of the Christmas events.  We were delighted to hear that her work schedule which has prevented Sunday attendance for some years, has become more flexible.  Her goal is to start attending services once a month during 2018.  This is a wonderful boost as she is a proficient pianist and loves to play.  So now she is the church pianist once a month.  This frees Kathy up from the piano to take on the role of worship leader/MC for the service on the weeks that Mrs. Itoh serves at the piano.  We are so grateful to see her back fellowshipping with the other believers and also willing to serve.