tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84624610565332858612024-03-22T10:21:02.375+09:00Trim Team JapanLife as missionaries in Kobe, Japan
with Murray and Kathy TrimKJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09491368479987821714noreply@blogger.comBlogger49125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8462461056533285861.post-26010337560985038952020-02-24T11:53:00.000+09:002020-02-24T11:59:30.363+09:00Asia-Pacific Region Conference<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This past week we were privileged to attend a large gathering of TEAM missionaries from all over Asia! It was a great blessing to be able to attend. <br />
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TEAM chose a large hotel in Pattaya, Thailand to host this inaugural event with hopes of continuing the event every 3 years. The 3 ½ days were filled with worship, messages, discussion groups, workshops, and more. <br />
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The worship team leader grew up as an MK and had us singing powerful songs about God's work and His power working in us and through us and even singing in different languages. A glimpse of heaven where every tongue and nation will worship our Lord Jesus Christ. Some of my favorite songs were "I will Build My Life Upon Your Love", "Way Maker" and "Make me a Channel of Your Peace". <br />
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Seminars and workshops focused on ministry in Asia so we found them very timely and helpful. <br />
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Networking was a big part of the conference. I (Kathy) actually went three days early for two reasons. One reason was for Member Care training. It was excellent training, helping us learn how to encourage our fellow missionaries, especially when they are in crisis. With my new role in MK Care, I learned so much about helping missionary families with stress, etc as they navigate living and working in a cross-cultural setting. <br />
Secondly, I arrived early to help prepare for the children's program that would take place during the conference. We were blessed to have numerous volunteers who helped care for children both during the pre-conference seminars and the conference itself. As liaison between the volunteers and the planning committee, I was able to help take some of the responsibilities away from the shoulders of those who had the greater responsibility of running the whole conference. The kids (50 younger ones and 20 or so teens) had a wonderful DVBS program and had a chance to connect with other English speaking MKs living in different countries. So many did not want to leave at the end. Also, four of the children prayed to receive Christ on the last day! <br />
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It was also exciting for us to have our son, Caleb and his family there as well. We shared some meals together and also did some babysitting so that they could visit and connect with others. </div>
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This was the first time that TEAM has tried this. Missionaries in attendance came away refreshed, encouraged, and with a new zeal to be better equipped and more effective in the ministry to which God has called each of us. Here are a few more pictures from our time there. </div>
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<br />KJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09491368479987821714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8462461056533285861.post-9391797599745544262019-11-17T15:49:00.001+09:002019-11-17T15:49:24.084+09:00Home Assignment is coming!We are excited about the possibility of seeing so many of you, our friends, family, and supporters, in the next year or so. We are working on a plan that would have us leaving Japan in mid-April, 2020 and being in the USA until sometime in early 2021. With God providing needed leadership for the Agape believers, we plan to use the next few months for seeking the Lord's will for our future ministry and preparing for Home Assignment. As you can imagine, there will be a lot of correspondence in our near future as we begin to schedule dates and places to visit during our Home Assignment. Please join us in prayer for this time of planning! KJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09491368479987821714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8462461056533285861.post-22567545982715720602019-11-17T15:34:00.000+09:002019-11-17T20:49:27.123+09:00MK Education AdvisorAs of August, 2019, I, Kathy, have added a new role in the mission community. I am in training as an education advisor for missionary kids and their families. This is a role in what is called member care as we as missionaries seek to encourage and support our fellow missionaries. Many missionary families struggle with how best to educate their children while serving in a foreign country. There are quite a few options for missionaries in Japan, and I have experience with nearly all of them. These include things like home schooling, Japanese local schools with part-time English home schooling, one room schools, secular international schools and the Christian international school for missionary kids. Touching base several times a year with our families to see how things are going is just one aspect of my new role. Most recently we are going through our first time to help a new family who has just arrived in Japan. They are trying to decide what's best for their 5 year old twins and 3 year old child. Kathy is excited that she has a co-advisor in this role, someone who is currently home schooling her two children full time.<br />
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Last September, our mission made it possible for my co-advisor and me to make a trip to Pennsylvania for a conference called MK Synergy. Gathered there were over 150 people who serve in roles to care for missionary kids and their families all over the world. The first two days were for newbies like us with special introductory sessions. It was so helpful. The final three days were filled with speakers and seminars all focusing on the uniqueness of MKs and ways to support and encourage them. Truthfully, it was quite overwhelming. But, it was great to have a chance to meet so many people who are doing similar things for MKs. In October I went to Tokyo for the first meeting of a new Member Care Focus Group. Accepting this role has put me in the Member Care Focus Group for TEAM Japan as a whole. Our first task was to work on developing a purpose statement. We have a Member Care coordinator but the needs have become too great for just one person. So TEAM Japan is looking to broaden its thinking and add people to a group that will focus on member care. Our worldwide Member Care coordinator based in the USA will be offering several days of training next February in Thailand just prior to an all-region conference for TEAM missionaries who are serving throughout Asia. Networking has become so important in this day and age that traveling to participate in various conferences in order to learn from one another is becoming more highly prioritized. <br />
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My good friend, Flossie, who has been serving in this role for a long time will be retiring and returning to the USA next April so I am eager to learn all I can from her. We are currently having meetings monthly via Skype. Most of the work of the Member Care Focus Group will also take place online. <br />
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Next April, there is going to be another conference on member care for MKs near Dallas, TX. If we make it to the USA for our home assignment in time, I am really hoping to attend. I just learned that a good friend of mine, Gary Roe, is going to be the speaker. garyroe.com While Gary is a hospice counselor and prolific writer of helpful materials for people who are grieving, he also has experience with international adoption. He was a missionary in Japan for a period of time as well. Many people do not realize how much loss and grief missionaries and their children experience. Gary also has a real heart for kids, with seven kids of his own. I think he's going to be a great speaker. <br />
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<br />KJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09491368479987821714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8462461056533285861.post-62736682955457946862019-11-17T15:22:00.001+09:002019-11-17T15:22:13.474+09:00GrandchildrenAfter the retreat, I had to return home via Tokyo. It worked out well for me to stop and pay a visit to our son, Caleb, his wife, Beth Anne and our two granddaughters, Emma, 7 and Mia, 4. It was at the end of October so one of our activities was carving a pumpkin. Orange pumpkins are actually very hard to find in Japan so I was impressed that Beth Anne had found one.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">getting started<br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cleaning out the pumpkin</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">finished</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And the candle!</td></tr>
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Doing English studies after a busy day using Japanese can be very challenging for missionary kids. Here are Emma and Mia working on their English schoolwork. (Mia is only doing preschool, but they are trying to create a daily routine. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDH9LfNr9SkJ3X7ebcb95VeWTL25Ns6HZ9ZYqjicGDY52NLaDocsxgH0xRHuOi9m_BmoeHMAWSiFrA23RPICh_JrLpaN4lJ-4_akyZ2oWA-A4FEermtK9jf9SEHn86fmUecZAokohyN4qo/s1600/IMG_3720.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDH9LfNr9SkJ3X7ebcb95VeWTL25Ns6HZ9ZYqjicGDY52NLaDocsxgH0xRHuOi9m_BmoeHMAWSiFrA23RPICh_JrLpaN4lJ-4_akyZ2oWA-A4FEermtK9jf9SEHn86fmUecZAokohyN4qo/s320/IMG_3720.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwGCnSI967n4nUTLhMq8Qm3h_9jNwwzySSuAk48Ya93FCqKVQsgU1Y977pNvLLRLQVtEe6DS7qTIayVA_KhnCNb4tbgrwEsVWloygsDpHoJak20DnmZQCJ9VIRe7dut6gV9zmsCZ4704hJ/s1600/IMG_3722.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwGCnSI967n4nUTLhMq8Qm3h_9jNwwzySSuAk48Ya93FCqKVQsgU1Y977pNvLLRLQVtEe6DS7qTIayVA_KhnCNb4tbgrwEsVWloygsDpHoJak20DnmZQCJ9VIRe7dut6gV9zmsCZ4704hJ/s320/IMG_3722.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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We do get to see Leo and Louie (Josiah and Manaka's boys) a little more often as they live here in Kobe. Leo is also trying to learn English as well as Japanese. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAOUNfjfPegQ2QgucxOOguMQtZ82C54BBWsTUrYDUwdnLgYl5Y6JnmgU0YiZBPcnYIWbJ4igwjmGgcLhcieiC-22AESWP7IL5ZtcUHf6YDuYU98h88BreBp0kI5HmlHOjgbu8M9cxyfXEQ/s1600/IMG_3672.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAOUNfjfPegQ2QgucxOOguMQtZ82C54BBWsTUrYDUwdnLgYl5Y6JnmgU0YiZBPcnYIWbJ4igwjmGgcLhcieiC-22AESWP7IL5ZtcUHf6YDuYU98h88BreBp0kI5HmlHOjgbu8M9cxyfXEQ/s320/IMG_3672.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwZY3aRb7EsqeFMxCfu1HA64OGLTbV-F_r0rN7hWNVw1aRHPUSmCG5y-27ZirOjD6aNcPTLU8XTsZKqM6Fl0Xb7jsYtzkguL_9V_aI0UfvTkjdd-CuF3wE5YwxdkVNitQHMb4pOCUPsEwY/s1600/IMG_3671.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwZY3aRb7EsqeFMxCfu1HA64OGLTbV-F_r0rN7hWNVw1aRHPUSmCG5y-27ZirOjD6aNcPTLU8XTsZKqM6Fl0Xb7jsYtzkguL_9V_aI0UfvTkjdd-CuF3wE5YwxdkVNitQHMb4pOCUPsEwY/s320/IMG_3671.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandpa loves reading books to Louie (almost two)</td></tr>
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Andrew and Annie live far away in Milwaukee, USA. Their boys are growing up so fast.<div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Julian age 4 loves minicar especially ones made in Japan</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sebastian age 1 1/2</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">son Andrew with Sebastian<br /></td></tr>
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Mikaela also lives far away in the USA. We miss them so much. Her daughter, Lilli, is 2 ½ and loves playing outside, especially in puddles. <div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr2M2vgQUiXayJxPzXWCgowKSOvgyaJUfTAJxJIuAd8DG8ooBNlJfc3iSEmQ63V8b4hpDnrUHhj-YolLiprhi-n4mxOJxxQV6ALfEwJzPR3UvAu8yBa40kKw8Y63pnbHkWm5bw4X7VSYXV/s1600/IMG_3696.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="912" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr2M2vgQUiXayJxPzXWCgowKSOvgyaJUfTAJxJIuAd8DG8ooBNlJfc3iSEmQ63V8b4hpDnrUHhj-YolLiprhi-n4mxOJxxQV6ALfEwJzPR3UvAu8yBa40kKw8Y63pnbHkWm5bw4X7VSYXV/s320/IMG_3696.jpg" width="228" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">rainy days? no problem</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji8R2jPCjSDw_cinq-J3UBNf7izvBOEyRkpZrSeuvX2TM1SmVK43XerN2ZJBFSY2e2tMBrEw32lnH-p_Rp7xXfzc6Ld9miML-BxHqRRBSGzNCHn2IkRjIZsENErNbFKPKvUhbcDYsVuaJa/s1600/IMG_3691.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1280" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji8R2jPCjSDw_cinq-J3UBNf7izvBOEyRkpZrSeuvX2TM1SmVK43XerN2ZJBFSY2e2tMBrEw32lnH-p_Rp7xXfzc6Ld9miML-BxHqRRBSGzNCHn2IkRjIZsENErNbFKPKvUhbcDYsVuaJa/s320/IMG_3691.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">enjoying the sunshine</td></tr>
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KJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09491368479987821714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8462461056533285861.post-72756592248079152372019-11-17T14:55:00.000+09:002019-11-17T14:55:06.165+09:00locked outWhen I wanted to make a new post awhile back, I discovered that I had been locked out of this account and ever since then I have not been able to access this account to post anything. Finally, today, I hit upon the right combination of things and was able to get in. <br />
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I enjoyed a trip to Karuizawa a few weeks ago for a 2 day retreat with my TEAM Japan sisters. It was beautiful weather and the leaves were changing colors. We were a smaller group this year because a number were on Home Assignment or couldn't attend for some reason. But, as we met together, it was a very cosy time as we listened, relaxed, shared and prayed together. <br />
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Here is a beautiful painting (painted for my retiring friend, Flossie, on the right by the woman on the left) that shows one of the loveliest spots in Karuizawa. It's definitely a place for renewal of heart and spirit!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirBJKFFJw_XUYbdKsalCbNy4tx3QgXldvMzUxPKAOsNKNqA7K2ZCvwhtmlLb8VV6YgWKVcHD2cFUl6v9KIu2dNCSOz5Mm3b2o3e_PiXEu_qbNRv05M4iHnqZxQfNtsqxfo7P54S3d-rGKk/s1600/Karuizawa+painting+by+Roberta+Rees.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirBJKFFJw_XUYbdKsalCbNy4tx3QgXldvMzUxPKAOsNKNqA7K2ZCvwhtmlLb8VV6YgWKVcHD2cFUl6v9KIu2dNCSOz5Mm3b2o3e_PiXEu_qbNRv05M4iHnqZxQfNtsqxfo7P54S3d-rGKk/s640/Karuizawa+painting+by+Roberta+Rees.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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Pray for the women below who are all missionaries in Japan (and the speaker, a missionary in the Philippines)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyGHu2yUzvnIX_hK4feezx7jfOtLjJDhVahf1QLYACE9QVnoP7U4xwqUXLvXoFBfzGcmVaOzxA0PCbpOv6KGX-N6ad9eATxJEC7aBfGRPzoy7f34kTsITY1PYlv6YtPDcE3Cl8iPY85QuU/s1600/Ladies+Retreat+2019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyGHu2yUzvnIX_hK4feezx7jfOtLjJDhVahf1QLYACE9QVnoP7U4xwqUXLvXoFBfzGcmVaOzxA0PCbpOv6KGX-N6ad9eATxJEC7aBfGRPzoy7f34kTsITY1PYlv6YtPDcE3Cl8iPY85QuU/s400/Ladies+Retreat+2019.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">women who attended the 2019 retreat</td></tr>
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KJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09491368479987821714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8462461056533285861.post-8509648672531530142019-07-02T22:47:00.000+09:002019-07-02T22:51:31.239+09:00visit to Takamatsu<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqL7LhZh3i0fgiZxeFvEGTMVdAeGxJwXejGZvGDQriFXFjUVRaXiWbhr1lNl4CUQ50ioRe14229Ut2FIPIrokuS50g_n9MJ4L6SwD3DMfd-C6UUiLkLN5Hk4enhmwegm9W0h_xzU-90bWw/s1600/IMG_0987.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqL7LhZh3i0fgiZxeFvEGTMVdAeGxJwXejGZvGDQriFXFjUVRaXiWbhr1lNl4CUQ50ioRe14229Ut2FIPIrokuS50g_n9MJ4L6SwD3DMfd-C6UUiLkLN5Hk4enhmwegm9W0h_xzU-90bWw/s1600/IMG_0987.jpeg" /></a></div>
Mike and Barbara Gray and family<br />
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Birthday celebrations<br />
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Since we share a birthday, every year we try to do something special to celebrate. This year we decided to spend the weekend in Takamatsu with missionary friends. Thirty-One years ago, Mike and Barbara were our neighbors in Nagano Ken as we all were working on Japanese language study.</div>
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Mike and Barbara are getting ready to retire and their son had been in the hospital with cancer for quite some time. We wanted to try and be a help and encouragement to them. We were able to help in a number of ways as well as attend a combined worship service with several churches represented on Sunday. We were blessed to see Isaac, their son, begin eating and drinking again after chemotherapy. We praise God for healing him and that he was able to be dismissed from the hospital soon after our visit. We met lots of special people including both Japanese and Filipino believers. </div>
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This past week Kathy was able to take a bus and go back to Takamatsu to help with a concert that Mike and Barbara did for some of their contacts from over the years. The concert was held at The Way Cafe, a new cafe run by a wonderful Christian couple. </div>
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Chris and Noriko</div>
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It was so exciting to see how God is at work at another location in Japan. We are so thankful to have had this opportunity. </div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/agapebiblechurch.kobe/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/agapebiblechurch.kobe/</a></div>
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If you click the above link and then scroll down the page, you'll be able to see a live version of the concert. </div>
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Mr. Kato is a friend from Kobe working in the Takamatsu area.</div>
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This area of Japan is known for its special noodles called udon. So, of course, we had to be sure and eat some while we were there. </div>
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Stella Cox is an old family friend who also lives in Takamatsu. We enjoyed seeing her again, too. She just celebrated her 91st birthday, but is still trying to reach people for Christ in Japan. </div>
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<br />KJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09491368479987821714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8462461056533285861.post-63524394159530319142018-11-28T00:26:00.000+09:002018-11-29T09:09:39.671+09:00Homesick? Cook up a storm!Do you ever feel homesick or maybe, just a deep longing to be with family and friends that you dearly love? Naturally, missionaries experience these feelings too. Sometimes it is memories of times past that you wish you could recreate. Sometimes you wish you were creating new memories with grown-up children or cuddling grandchildren. All in all, it adds up to sometimes wishing we were somewhere else at holiday time. This past week was Thanksgiving! Well, at least in the USA, our friends and family were gathering to celebrate. In Japan, it's not anything special. There is a business holiday on Nov. 23rd called "Laborer's Thanksgiving" where people are thankful to have work but it isn't celebrated. So, naturally, we were missing "home" and "family" a bit more than usual. So, deciding to make the most of it, we organized a number of "events". <br />
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It isn't often that missionaries and pastors can coordinate their schedules to spend time together just for fun and fellowship. So it was a treat to spend time with Pastor and Mrs. Iwagami and their family on Thursday evening! Our main food was Indian Curry! Mmmmmm, we are thankful for the variety of foods that the Lord created. Desserts included pumpkin cheesecake and chocolate pie. A rousing game of team pictionary made for a lot of laughter and fun. Our son, Josiah, and his family are also good friends with the Iwagami family, and they were able to join us for the evening. Good times. </div>
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On Saturday, we had our English Cafe for November. This continues to be a very effective outreach. It turned out that MORE people were able to attend BECAUSE it was a 3-day holiday weekend. And yes, this is when I decided to cook up a storm for our Japanese friends. I wanted them to enjoy some of the traditional foods that often show up at our Thanksgiving table in the midwest of the USA. I didn't bake a turkey but rather a chicken and stuffing casserole, along with corn casserole, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, 7 layer salad, and traditional pumpkin pie for dessert. Here are a few photos:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCpzQbnYtn0gghI6yDk94P4kgVwd641NpXswqguvXy3T8QxQoWst4Q4NpxIqdJZod56r5NXN6d5Wq7hiu7nfMLbC5cg48WU5nPIFAgE5nMjeXyTGkunKc8xumIkM6gSVBxJ_EU3LtwnTRw/s1600/IMG_1208.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCpzQbnYtn0gghI6yDk94P4kgVwd641NpXswqguvXy3T8QxQoWst4Q4NpxIqdJZod56r5NXN6d5Wq7hiu7nfMLbC5cg48WU5nPIFAgE5nMjeXyTGkunKc8xumIkM6gSVBxJ_EU3LtwnTRw/s320/IMG_1208.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mrs. Yasu, our church member, (on the right) brought her friend in the purple jacket on the left. Her friend brought this amazing craft to show everyone. It is designed to look like "osechi ryori", the traditional new year's foods served in Japan. The interesting thing is that it is all made from kimono cloth. Absolutely beautiful! In the middle is dear Mrs. Watanabe, one of our church members. She doesn't speak English, but she comes just to use her gift of serving, helping with setup, and cleanup, which is a big help! </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That is one giant shrimp in the middle! </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carl, on the far left, is here for a short-term mission, helping at the church plant of a Japanese pastor. It was our first time to meet him. Karen, Miyu, and her mom are on the top row. Kenta is in the middle of the front row.</td></tr>
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It was exciting to have two university students attend for the first time. Karen spent a year in Norway as an exchange student and Kenta spent almost a year in New Zealand. So they were both happy for a chance to speak in English again. Miyu and her mom and brother were a part of Agape Church quite a number of years ago. When Miyu was in about 3rd grade she read a book in her school library about Jesus. She was so interested that she asked her mother if they could visit church. Her mom found Agape on the internet. Miyu believed and was baptized several years later. But then school life took over and she quit attending during junior high and high school. She is now a sophomore at a university about 3 hours away. We were thrilled to hear that she found a church there and has been attending quite frequently. She is studying to become a nurse. </div>
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The older folks who attended talked about how they felt energized by having young people there who are just starting adult life and starting to follow their dreams. It was a very congenial group and we all had a good time. They all enjoyed tasting the various foods, many of whom had never eaten anything like it before. This was a good chance to share with them about the months leading up to Jesus' birth from the Bible. We learned that Kenta developed a special friendship with a man while in New Zealand who just happened to be a Christian pastor. So he was quite interested in learning more about Christianity. We pray that God will lead us into friendship with other adults like these. There are so many of them in Japan that they have become a new segment of Japanese society called, "returnees". People who have lived abroad and then returned to Japan. Why are they so unique? It is because once people have experienced life in other countries, it makes it more difficult for them to fit in when they return to live in Japanese society. This often leads to an openness in their hearts to friendships with others like themselves, or with foreigners who also don't fit in. Returnees are often much more open to the Gospel because they have seen or experienced life with Christians in other countries. </div>
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KJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09491368479987821714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8462461056533285861.post-46134447557102758772018-11-27T23:40:00.001+09:002018-11-27T23:40:25.381+09:00The Joy of Teaching the Bible<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times;">This past year the Lord has brought some new seekers into our lives and it is such a joy to be able to teach God's Word to them. We've had a conversational English class on Monday mornings for quite some time and there has been some turnover in the members. When Kathy noticed that one of the ladies, in particular, was showing more interest in the Bible, a little over a year ago, she offered to do a Bible study right after the class for anyone who wanted to stay. The numbers have varied but anywhere from 2-5 of the women have stayed almost every week. Just a few weeks ago,</span><span style="font-family: Times;"> four ladies stayed for the “Firm Foundations” Bible study. It was the final lesson after nearly a year of study and included a very clear presentation of the Gospel and an opportunity to pray and receive Christ. Although none of them have taken that step yet, it is obvious that God is working in their hearts. After we finished that lesson, they agreed to continue to study the Bible. So we started a study on the Gospel of Mark, focusing on the life of Christ. This particular one is designed as an introductory study for seekers. However, it requires much more preparation in Japanese on Kathy's part than the previous study did. Kathy is challenged and eager to work on improving her reading ability in Japanese. So please pray for Kathy as she prepares and teaches this study on Mondays. </span></span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mrs. N, Mrs. O, and Mrs. K from the Monday study group who also attended our recent English Cafe. </td></tr>
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</span></span>KJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09491368479987821714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8462461056533285861.post-62629832817466521612018-11-27T23:17:00.002+09:002018-11-27T23:17:47.298+09:00"kouyo" Autumn Leaves Viewing and "tanshin funin"One thing I greatly admire about the Japanese people is their appreciation of nature. When they begin to understand and get acquainted with the God of the Bible, the Creator of the world and everything in it, it seems to really impact them profoundly. Despite extremely busy schedules, the Japanese often create special time to enjoy nature time throughout the year. In the spring, they do cherry blossom viewing with parties under the blossoming trees. In the fall, they do special outings that allow them to view the leaves changing colors. Many historical buildings are surrounded by cherry trees or red maples. Some years ago we discovered a Buddhist temple high on a mountain overlooking the city of Kyoto where the autumn leaves are gorgeous. The leaves haven't been quite as pretty this year, some say, due to the many typhoons we had in summer and early fall. But, we decided to make an outing with some new friends, the Kato family, to go and see the leaves. 3 of their 4 kids came along and we had such a good time. Here is a picture of the 5 of them, minus their 7th grade son. Mr. Kato's company practices a common Japanese style of business where "tanshin funin" goes along with the job. This is when the company transfers the employee to a branch in another location and he is expected to leave his family behind. In his case (better than some), they provide him with an apartment, utilities, and transportation to return home to visit his family for about 5 days every month. He also has the use of a company car when needed. Mr. Kato is very devoted to his wife and kids and when he's home for those few days, he wants to include them in anything he does. It has given us a great opportunity to show hospitality and love to their whole family. They've been to our house several times for dinner. This month we were able to spend most of a day on a fun outing together. How did we meet them? Their 6-year-old son joined an English class at our church. One time while home, his dad was the one to come to class with him. He is also interested in English and visited English Cafe. During one visit to our home, we expressed how unusual it is to find a Japanese couple who like to socialize together rather than in their separate groups (Dad with work friends, Mom with other moms). We expressed how much we've missed not having another couple to spend time with. It made me smile to hear Mr. K reiterate that idea when we were driving home from our outing. After looking at our wedding photos one night, they mentioned how they've never really had pictures taken of them as a couple, not even at their wedding. So while we were out viewing the leaves, we made sure to get lots of photos of them together. We really enjoy spending time with their whole family. Their 3 boys and 1 daughter bring back lots of memories of our own children when they were growing up. Pray that we can continue to develop a wonderful friendship with the Kato family. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mr. and Mrs. Kato</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kokoa, Daiki, and Haku</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The whole gang of us (plus one man with a dog who photo bombed the photo, front and center, because his wife was taking the picture!) Note: Mr. Kato insisted on carrying MY prominent pink bag for ME as we climbed up and down the steep paths. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just the two of us</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Kato family (minus one)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kokoa, best big sister ever!</td></tr>
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KJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09491368479987821714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8462461056533285861.post-41466797312375312282018-11-27T21:19:00.000+09:002018-11-27T21:19:17.109+09:00Amazing Grace<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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🎼🎶🎵🎶🎹This is Kathy with a co-teacher, Mrs. Kitamoto! A number of years ago the junior high school where we both teach a few English classes part-time wanted to try an experiment. They called it Immersion English. They selected music and art as two subjects that they thought the students could learn to follow the English instruction without translation. While Kathy is not a typical music teacher, she does have some background in music, and is a very good English teacher. On the other hand, Mrs. Kitamoto is an awesome music teacher who speaks no English. The school paired them together for 4-5 lessons each school year for all of the junior high students. Kathy has just completed this year's lessons. During the lessons, Kathy teaches the correct pronunciation of the English lyrics so that the students can learn to sing a new song in English. Later, in the school year, or even the following year, the girls will perform the song at one of their school events. These classes have become very popular at the junior high. Kathy's favorite part is having the opportunity to teach "Amazing Grace" to each grade at some point. The students always perform this hymn when they go to New Zealand for homestays. Now they also perform it every year at the oratorical contest. Kathy gets the chance to explain the history of John Newton's conversion as well as the meaning of the lyrics as she teaches them to sing the song. Pray that the seeds that are planted during these music classes will take root in their hearts and bear fruit in the future. 🙏<br />KJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09491368479987821714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8462461056533285861.post-29901101899084691922018-06-12T22:59:00.000+09:002018-06-12T22:59:27.559+09:00Okonomiyaki PartyWhat in the world is okonomiyaki? Well, it's a kind of Japanese food that our area of Japan is famous for. It starts with a simple batter, similar to a thin pancake batter. Then shredded cabbage is added. Now comes the part that means (as-you-like-it). Many different things/flavors can be added to the basic mix. Shrimp, seafood, thinly sliced pork or beef, green onions, fish flakes. etc The batter is spooned out onto a hot grill with your favorite toppings. When the cakes are cooked on both sides, the cake is topped with a sweetened soy based sauce and mayo. Sounds delicious, doesn't it? Believe me, it is. <br />
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In early May, there are some national holidays clumped together. They call this Golden Week. Many people like to travel during this time. We decided to stay at home for a "stay-cation". We got lots done around the house and yard, and enjoyed time with friends and family. <br />
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One of the days we invited the Agape people to come to our house for an okonomiyaki party! We had such a good time. Different people volunteered to bring different ingredients and everyone pitched in for the preparations. We had a wonderful time of fellowship as we enjoyed delicious Japanese food. <br />
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<br />KJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09491368479987821714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8462461056533285861.post-27465222196870161132018-06-12T22:48:00.000+09:002018-06-12T22:48:09.971+09:00The Ten CommandmentsHow many of you have watched the movie, "The Ten Commandments" with Charlton Hesston? Yes, it's a classic, isn't it? <br />
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Some weeks ago as Mrs. K, Mrs. O, and Mrs. N were leaving at the end of Bible study, Mrs. K said, " I want to hurry home. The Ten Commandments movie is being shown on Channel ? on TV. When I watched it before, I could hardly understand anything. Now that I have been studying the Bible with Kathy, I want to see if I understand more." The other ladies nodded and said, "Yes, that's a good idea! We'll watch it too!".<br />
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The next week at Bible study, they were full of questions. We talked and discussed and learned a lot about the differences between living under the law and living under grace. <br />
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Kathy remembered that she had a DVD of the Jesus story in the church office. She quickly got it after class and suggested Mrs. O take it home and watch it that week. <br />
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When she came back the following week, she exclaimed, "I watched it three times!! The first time in English with subtitles but the rest of the time in Japanese. It was so interesting. I am getting more and more interested in studying the Bible." Then she said, "I want to live my life like Jesus, showing love and kindness to everyone." <br />
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Recently we have been studying the proofs of the resurrection of Jesus. Pray that the signs and wonders recorded in the Bible will impact these women. <br />
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<br />KJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09491368479987821714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8462461056533285861.post-89507695030227121682018-06-12T22:33:00.000+09:002018-06-12T22:33:49.470+09:00English CafeEnglish Cafe is a event that we host at Agape on the fourth Saturday of the month, about 10 months out of the year. It is designed to be a casual atmosphere where folks of all ages who are interested in improving their English can come and practice with native speakers. Mainly we are the English native speakers, unless we happen to have a special guest visiting. <br />
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We set up small tables to make conversation units. People practice free conversation for the first part of the time. We provide refreshments and drinks, often homemade things that Kathy bakes. Sometimes we have some English games or activities during the program time. Murray gives a short talk in English from the Bible. Mrs. O and Mrs. N from the Monday morning Bible time often attend. This past month we took turns reading a simplified character drama of the story of Daniel and the Lions Den. Many of the people who attend are not yet believers. Please pray that this outreach will bear fruit. <br />
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KJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09491368479987821714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8462461056533285861.post-18034218784942369832018-06-12T22:25:00.000+09:002018-06-12T22:25:00.701+09:00May VisitorsThere's nothing like a visit from long-time friends. This month was such a blessing with two such visits. Gordon and Kyna Reissdorf are from Canada (don't hold that against them!). We met them quite a few years ago in another part of Japan, and then they also lived in the Kobe area for a number of years as tent making missionaries. What special people they are! God called them to return to Canada two years ago and we have really missed them and their children. Gordon and Kyna were able to return for a visit along with some work for his job as a recruiter for Trinity Western University. ( I hope I got that name right). We met them downtown and took them to one of our favorite places to eat -- an okonomiyaki restaurant. (as-you-like-it food--a sort of cabbage pancake). So encouraging to hear story after story of God's goodness in direction and provision for their lives. There's nothing like hearing praises firsthand. We are so thankful for the time we had together. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gordon and Kyna</td></tr>
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Our second visit was from a former TEAM Japan missionary. We always call her Kathy Ann so that we can keep her and Kathy Jean apart. Kathy Ann and her husband served in Japan for quite a few years (around 18 or so, I think, in total). Josiah was good friends with their older boys when they were just 90 minutes away. Kathy and her husband, are now serving with TEAM in the Czech Republic. Talk about some difficult languages to learn. (Japanese, followed by Czech). Again, hearing firsthand how God has been working in their lives and others was just such a blessing and a big boost of encouragement to us. Kathy's visit coincided with grandson, Leo's sports festival at his school. So she got to see Josiah and meet his family as well. <br />
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Sports Days are annual events and a big deal at every elementary school. All of the students are divided into two teams, the red and the white. When you win an event, you score points for your team. The kids' hats are reversible are can be switched from red to white. It's an all-day event. Parents bring picnic lunches to eat while they sit outside on mats to watch the events. Many grandparents come to watch as well. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leo making the peace sign. </td></tr>
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<br />KJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09491368479987821714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8462461056533285861.post-67137013423442889692018-06-12T22:08:00.000+09:002018-06-12T22:08:37.087+09:00Growing FamilyDuring these past few months, we were overjoyed to welcome TWO new grand babies into our clan. On November 30, 2017, Josiah and his wife, Manaka, welcomed Louie to join his big brother Leo, 7. <div>
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We are thrilled to be able to help them out as well as spend time with them occasionally because they live just 20 minutes away. Of course, schedules are busy but we try to fit in some fun and games with these sweeties. </div>
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Meanwhile, back in the USA, in Milwaukee, our oldest son, Andrew and his wife, Annie had a baby boy, Sebastian, on April 10th. We enjoy getting lots of pictures and sometimes being able to do internet calls with Sebastian's older brother, Julian, who will turn 3 in July. Naturally we wish they weren't so far away, but we are thankful for all the many ways we can keep in touch. </div>
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This brings our total number of grandchildren to seven. We have four on this side of the Pacific and three more back in the USA. Are we blessed or what?! </div>
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KJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09491368479987821714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8462461056533285861.post-27834859972253731782018-06-12T21:59:00.000+09:002018-06-12T21:59:09.230+09:00March/April, 2018Many students graduate in February and March, and start their new jobs in April. For those of you reading our newsletters you might remember that in 2017, Manae left us to start work as a preschool teacher in her hometown on Shikoku, a different island of Japan. Tomoka left to go to work for a hotel. It's not that far away, but she lives in a dormitory and works a lot of split shifts, especially on Sundays. So she isn't able to visit here very often. <br />
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This year was the year that Akihiro graduated from university. Akihiro was baptized last year after being a part of Agape for around two years. Akihiro is fluent in English and his dream was to spend one year living abroad in Australia after graduation. During his last months of one-on-one Bible study with Murray, Murray was able to have him assist in some historical research for the Sunday messages. Akihiro prepared a handout in Japanese to accompany the messages that Murray was preaching from the book of Genesis. Akihiro also gave an oral presentation to accompany the message. <br />
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It was hard to say good-bye to him when he left. He is living in Sydney. Life hasn't been easy, and we recently learned that his Grandma back here in Japan passed away shortly after he went to Australia and he wasn't able to return. He was very close to her so this has been a difficult time for him. <br />
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In Tokyo, our sweet granddaughter, Emma (pictured below with little sister, Mia) started first grade in elementary school. While Japanese schools still require a certain style of backpack, the colors are no longer restricted to red for girls and black for boys. Emma was thrilled to be able to choose a sky blue backpack to carry her books and things to school. Mia just turned 3 and loves meeting new people. Pray for their language study and the relationships they are developing in Tokyo. <br />
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KJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09491368479987821714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8462461056533285861.post-3106421187094003922018-06-12T21:44:00.000+09:002018-06-12T21:44:05.048+09:00February, March 2018As the Japanese fiscal year and school year winds to a close in mid-March, we found ourselves praying for wisdom and evaluating various responsibilities and ministries. This is the time of the year for shutting down things that aren't working or for starting new things. This year we mainly made adjustments to the schedule to fit with students' changing schedules and adding some more new students. We chose not to start any new programs as we both feel that we are doing all that we can at the moment. <br />
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The Monday morning group continues but we were disappointed to lose 80 year old Mr. S for an indefinite time. He is such a lively, friendly fellow and added a unique spark to the class and sometimes stayed for Bible. His brother-in-law is ill with cancer and it is falling on Mr. S to take him to the doctor every Monday. So please pray that the seeds of the Gospel planted in his heart will take root and be growing. <br />
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About this same time, Mrs. O shared in Bible time that her adult daughter would be entering the hospital during March to have an operation on a tumor that was found on her head behind her ear. Kathy didn't feel she was well enough acquainted to press for more details or to make a visit, but prayed in class for the situation. Mrs. O was asking how we can be thankful during times of such shock and pain. It is so obvious that the Holy Spirit is working there. The following week, Kathy was at the same hospital for an outpatient visit, walking down a hallway that she usually doesn't use, when she heard her name being called. (Kathy teacher, Kathy teacher) This is a very large teaching hospital with hundreds of people going here and there. So Kathy was very surprised. She looked around and there was Mrs. O, grabbing onto Kathy's arm. Mrs. O was preparing to leave the hospital after seeing her daughter admitted. After grasping the situation, Kathy was able to go with Mrs. O up to the 8th floor and meet the daughter, and pray with both of them right there in the hospital hallway. Mrs. O kept exclaiming, "I was so troubled. I kept wishing that I could see you (Kathy). Your faith is so strong and such an encouragement to me." Kathy couldn't have planned such a timely encounter even if she had wanted to. God completely orchestrated the meeting in the hallway that day. <br />
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Mrs O's daughter's surgery went well, and praise be to God, they were able to remove the entire tumor. Her recovery has also gone well. Mrs. O continues to study the Bible to learn more about God. KJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09491368479987821714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8462461056533285861.post-29618996385175734572018-06-12T21:15:00.000+09:002018-06-12T21:29:28.724+09:00January, 2018January, 2018<br />
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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. <br />
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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.<br />
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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. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mrs Itoh (left) and Mrs. N.</td></tr>
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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. KJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09491368479987821714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8462461056533285861.post-7320916164002387532018-06-12T21:05:00.000+09:002018-06-12T21:16:00.616+09:00December, 2017December, 2017 was a full month of engaging with people, often having conversations related to the true meaning of Christmas. Because of Murray's similarity in appearance to the likeness that most people think of as Santa Claus, he gets numerous invitations to parties and events. The most exciting thing about these events is that they almost always include parents. So these opportunities to share about the true meaning of Christmas with adults provide our largest audiences of the whole year. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Even one of the local Starbucks stores invites us to come and do a program with moms and their kids.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kathy sometimes joins as Mrs. Claus. </td></tr>
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Each year Murray is challenged to create a unique object lesson for a story that will lead to the story of Jesus. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizB8SOTiqRJ3bXbVjaCn38crMbNQ_FyvT4HERpp8iUp3HwpBrMl9kXdnVGnzlPBC-FYo4dR9TVz4pwXHqUrSb4sDTf8BK918KS6lVP1F8RCmPu7f5O3f_Xn9xVaL88_7NyP31z5fVnWyQr/s1600/IMG_9556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizB8SOTiqRJ3bXbVjaCn38crMbNQ_FyvT4HERpp8iUp3HwpBrMl9kXdnVGnzlPBC-FYo4dR9TVz4pwXHqUrSb4sDTf8BK918KS6lVP1F8RCmPu7f5O3f_Xn9xVaL88_7NyP31z5fVnWyQr/s320/IMG_9556.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For many of the listeners, it is not a REMINDER that Jesus should be the center of our Christmas but, rather, most of them are hearing the story of the birth of Jesus for the VERY FIRST TIME!</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTvkwhDqpaYCh70y0wWj8-QpVzx1AbuGgMbT6QOYILuq2xOkumdvOoPQU5NBuZiaNs5tViqZPUM5J_Nk2Na3ahO1QJLa7NwDvehVtKibr6-1w4HlGHiGKgwFab08_iLkvEQSkCuYY9VvyV/s1600/IMG_9558.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTvkwhDqpaYCh70y0wWj8-QpVzx1AbuGgMbT6QOYILuq2xOkumdvOoPQU5NBuZiaNs5tViqZPUM5J_Nk2Na3ahO1QJLa7NwDvehVtKibr6-1w4HlGHiGKgwFab08_iLkvEQSkCuYY9VvyV/s320/IMG_9558.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Notice any similarities between the above and below photos? Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC Japan) loves to dress Colonel Sanders in Santa's clothes each year. Why?, you may be asking. Because what would Christmas Eve dinner be without KFC Fried Chicken. Well, not just KFC's, but roast chicken has become the go-to meal for Christmas Eve, which is either a family dinner at home or a special date night out, if you have a special someone. In fact, many Japanese young ladies feel very panicked if they don't have a date for Christmas Eve. It's very interesting how these customs develop in different countries. <br />
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Below are a few more photos of our December ministries. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ10jocEwyqE5XFxPHeiXKzm21_Sl-vMu1VSiB2nJ7lBE2065qw1GqisL3EkGh9gCtksmTcIxO9YJSnEgxv9OyT8TyjfgKSXe1GDpEMzskwEyN2fXaJrMbx6UjeS9Agc6r6w5fBX3EkL80/s1600/IMG_9551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ10jocEwyqE5XFxPHeiXKzm21_Sl-vMu1VSiB2nJ7lBE2065qw1GqisL3EkGh9gCtksmTcIxO9YJSnEgxv9OyT8TyjfgKSXe1GDpEMzskwEyN2fXaJrMbx6UjeS9Agc6r6w5fBX3EkL80/s320/IMG_9551.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Children watching a video about the very first Christmas (in Japanese)</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDABel-gXFSERhD3XmPaPw6PM1sWa0TO7vzf2mEDsPVjvqPTVQzU80vkfABrX7lh9bUgcTK6-7T-J-Anf6GftLOri60bicxQdKfCxPjF6mq3ZGMNhl9tRJmWLdql0F33e0gUicSQX11t1E/s1600/IMG_9559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDABel-gXFSERhD3XmPaPw6PM1sWa0TO7vzf2mEDsPVjvqPTVQzU80vkfABrX7lh9bUgcTK6-7T-J-Anf6GftLOri60bicxQdKfCxPjF6mq3ZGMNhl9tRJmWLdql0F33e0gUicSQX11t1E/s320/IMG_9559.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
These little girls really enjoyed the special treats. <br />
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These boys were more partial to the popcorn they got to eat during the movie.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpQlFe59N_s3xqioeu0fpH1dbKiC7Ix7ZDZdUNOQI6YEc368g5IBy3WVn_O3PwxEbWiQuIAUB2Yu1SyPGO6bcQ2XAiM7DAZdKj6TvABdUSQ6vJv3ajHxSEnJikYFyjb2WDvQIc8p5DEhHO/s1600/IMG_9567.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpQlFe59N_s3xqioeu0fpH1dbKiC7Ix7ZDZdUNOQI6YEc368g5IBy3WVn_O3PwxEbWiQuIAUB2Yu1SyPGO6bcQ2XAiM7DAZdKj6TvABdUSQ6vJv3ajHxSEnJikYFyjb2WDvQIc8p5DEhHO/s320/IMG_9567.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These ladies are moms of some of the children.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigLTPG3zDk5pKKTwYc7M9sxI-iODVrid3tKNPXhBksoOJZJBCdhWbWlZhRbzWqEtQIFVPW3jN4w_6Qn57dHmtDJA3WOLPeq9-8nJOwFCW91BYh-B4W6tyQ8GoSemPCudfCax-4wXNzN4aX/s1600/IMG_9580.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigLTPG3zDk5pKKTwYc7M9sxI-iODVrid3tKNPXhBksoOJZJBCdhWbWlZhRbzWqEtQIFVPW3jN4w_6Qn57dHmtDJA3WOLPeq9-8nJOwFCW91BYh-B4W6tyQ8GoSemPCudfCax-4wXNzN4aX/s320/IMG_9580.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mothers of our students</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKwtl4c37NPTpIuMmnoezJBYIe1ee1o1hel3jqHYaxo2ygsuboIqKD-rh-M_f64LjEAlKyp2SXvr3y_TJiHRUlL2uCFsEm_a8BlehZ7VPj6AnrbHjjubOcLqqlz3pLF2SYdi5EOuj4_X9g/s1600/IMG_9590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKwtl4c37NPTpIuMmnoezJBYIe1ee1o1hel3jqHYaxo2ygsuboIqKD-rh-M_f64LjEAlKyp2SXvr3y_TJiHRUlL2uCFsEm_a8BlehZ7VPj6AnrbHjjubOcLqqlz3pLF2SYdi5EOuj4_X9g/s320/IMG_9590.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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These are some of our youngest students.</div>
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KJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09491368479987821714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8462461056533285861.post-78754806596031264492016-08-31T13:46:00.000+09:002016-08-31T13:46:13.190+09:00How do I choose to value my earthly life? September 4, 2016 is just a few days away. It's hard to imagine but, on that date, 28 years ago, we trudged through airports with three exhausted kids, piles of luggage and carryons, to arrive at our dream destination--Japan!! Murray and I were married in December of 1980, already feeling the call of God to take the gospel to the Japanese people. Eight years later we were finally on our way. <br />
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The first few months in Japan were rough. We battled pneumonia, asthma, broken washing machines, culture shock, language study, rain, rain, and more rain, mildew, constant dampness, clothes that wouldn't dry--the list goes on and on. <br />
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It was during one of my heart to hearts with God toward the end of our first six months that God spoke to me very clearly about our call to Japan and the Japanese people. He did it through the following verse in His word, in the book of Acts, spoken by Paul during some of his hardships,<br />
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"But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus--the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God!" Acts 20:24 NLT<br />
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<span class="" style="background-color: #f2f2f2; font-size: small; line-height: normal;">しかし、わたしが自分の行程と、</span><b class="" style="font-family: -webkit-standard; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; line-height: normal;">主イエス</b><span class="" style="background-color: #f2f2f2; font-size: small; line-height: normal;">から受けた務めを全うして、</span><b class="" style="font-family: -webkit-standard; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; line-height: normal;">神</b><span class="" style="background-color: #f2f2f2; font-size: small; line-height: normal;">の恵みの福音を厳かに証しするためには、</span><a class="notes" href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=8462461056533285861" style="background-color: white; color: #3d61b6; font-family: -webkit-standard; font-size: medium; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: bold; line-height: normal;"><sup class=""><b class="">1</b></sup></a><span class="" style="background-color: #f2f2f2; font-size: small; line-height: normal;">自分の</span><a class="notes" href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=8462461056533285861" style="background-color: white; color: #3d61b6; font-family: -webkit-standard; font-size: medium; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: bold; line-height: normal;"><sup class=""><b class="">2</b></sup></a><span class="" style="background-color: #f2f2f2; font-size: small; line-height: normal;">命を尊いとは思いません。</span>使徒 20:24</div>
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We are currently in the United States on Home Assignment. It has been GOOD. We have been blessed over and over by dear ones here who have loved on us in so many ways. We will be here three more months until the end of November. During the next few months we are hoping to complete visits to all of our supporting churches and also see many of our faithful partners who share in our ministry through their faithful prayers and financial support. While here, we are grateful to be able to share the Gospel with some whom God is bringing across our path. (Ask us about the Chinese restaurant in SE Kansas.) We also look forward with eagerness to our return to Japan to continue the ministry to which God has called us--sharing the Good News about God's wonderful grace with the Japanese people. So, what is the value of my earthly life? Nothing, if I cannot be sharing the Good News with others wherever I am and whenever God gives me the opportunity.<br />
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Along with us being able to GO to Japan and tell others about Jesus, one of our deepest prayer requests is that God would use us to encourage others to answer His call and become missionaries to Japan! God has been answering this prayer in some really awesome ways, and I'm excited to be able to tell you more about that in our next blog post!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ8bp51YHmpPOT2F7gYUGFu9F19Wg7kN0OvXdECUZloZt2_QahzUV3_Q1hg_UZP5WE4ehcu7ovB1_nb08Za62fuGolCVDCRtJEllID7U8ThBf7MiZ8M5IgmOB_8UFFSWGjyHeXRj1W9HCE/s1600/IMG_0351.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ8bp51YHmpPOT2F7gYUGFu9F19Wg7kN0OvXdECUZloZt2_QahzUV3_Q1hg_UZP5WE4ehcu7ovB1_nb08Za62fuGolCVDCRtJEllID7U8ThBf7MiZ8M5IgmOB_8UFFSWGjyHeXRj1W9HCE/s320/IMG_0351.JPG" width="320" /></a> Here we are in Nashville with the best ever tour guide, Clint Fields (who also just happened to be our host along with his sweet wife, Amy, during our time there.)<br />
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<br />KJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09491368479987821714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8462461056533285861.post-76923216336022674022013-07-09T12:38:00.001+09:002013-07-09T12:38:30.710+09:00Workers for the HarvestIt has been great to have a Bible college student from the USA join us for a summer of ministry. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Elia Downey arrived in early June and will be with us until late July. She is very interested in teaching English to speakers of foreign languages so she has been doing some observation of our English classes and is now starting to become more actively involved in teaching practice. She is very enthusiastic and friendly, and is enjoying opportunities to spend time with Japanese people. </div>
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We are also thrilled to announce that Paul and Liz Godwin, a married couple about our age, will be joining us from August of this year for a two year ministry assignment. Paul and Liz have been actively involved in working with exchange students in the USA, particularly those from Japan. During their assignment here, they are desirous of working with college and university students as well as doing follow-up with Japanese returnees who have studied overseas and have now returned to Japan. Many Japanese returnees get involved with Christians and churches while they are in the USA but then find it difficult to continue when they return to Japan. Paul and Liz hope to help make that transition easier as well as train Japanese to also get involved in outreach to international students studying here in Japan. They will also assist at Agape as they can and Paul hopes to develop some English classes for outreach. </div>
KJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09491368479987821714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8462461056533285861.post-68283710428597586692013-07-09T12:20:00.002+09:002013-07-09T12:46:13.739+09:00Refreshing RainsRainy season is coming to a close. I actually enjoyed the occasional rainstorms and, sometimes, the cooler breezes they would bring. However, there are also those days with super high humidity and now we start adding more and more heat to go along with the humidity. However, the rains have replenished the earth with moisture and kept the flowers and trees green, so it is something to be thankful for. <br />
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We have also been experiencing the rain of spiritual blessings in our ministry and we are so thankful for the refreshment and encouragement that brings! Mrs. H and Mrs. W, two older ladies, are making the transition from attending only Sunday morning services to studying the Bible in a biweekly Bible study. The course is "Foundations for Faith". They both are interested in learning more about what it means to get baptized so this is a key step to learning more about the Christian faith. Please pray for the Holy Spirit to enlighten their study as one mentioned the other day, "The Bible is really difficult, isn't it?". However, it is a joy to see them also starting to participate in serving. Mrs. W. always arrives early and eagerly puts out songbooks, or starts water for tea. Both ladies often stay after to help with anything that needs to be done. <br />
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In April, the Lord brought us a lovely young college student, M, who moved to Kobe to attend a nearby university. A fellow TEAM missionary from her hometown introduced her to our church and she has been faithfully attending. She is also very eager to do Bible study and learn more about her faith. She is training to become a preschool teacher so she is willing to help out with the children's story on occasion.<br />
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My knee surgery also presented the opening of new doors with two Mrs. Ms. From two days before the surgery to a month afterwards, I was in the hospital. I got to know two older ladies, my roommates, very well. One of them has had connection to an Episcopalian church in her past. During our stay I was able to share God's love with them on a number of different occasions. Two weeks ago I was very excited to see both of them again when I was back for my weekly rehab session. We had a very good visit and look forward to more. Mrs. M #1 is age 80 and is already back in the hospital for the surgery on her other knee. So now I get to see her weekly when I return for my rehab. <br />
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The recovery has been slower and harder than I imagined it would be, but I am still encouraged as the pain I have now is the aftereffect of the surgery and will eventually go away. Please pray that I will continue to be faithful with the daily exercises. KJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09491368479987821714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8462461056533285861.post-69282986502537215572013-02-28T09:08:00.003+09:002013-02-28T09:08:40.626+09:00New Source of Encouragement - (a website about Christian books)Today I want to write about a Christian website that has become a new source of encouragement for me. <a href="http://www.bookfun.org/" target="_blank">www.bookfun.org</a> This is a new kind of book club for the digital age, The Book Club Network, Inc. Fred (Phred) and Nora have become the ultimate book club discussion leaders. They spend hours researching new books and bringing new authors to the page to interact with the readers. This website is all about Christian books. An author friend of mine, <a href="http://www.candacecalvert.com/" target="_blank">Candace Calvert</a>, introduced me to the site. After enjoying lots of stimulating conversation with Candace regarding her books and characters, I discovered that I could do that with both authors and other readers who enjoy some of the same kinds of books that I enjoy. <br />
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With very few other foreigners in our area to connect with regarding books, other reading material, sources of encouragement, etc, I discovered this wonderful place where I can do it online. Naturally, I don't have hours and hours to spend perusing all the wealth of material out there, so I really appreciate that Phred and Nora do so much of the previewing and bring the best of the best to our attention. When I say bring them to our attention, I mean they are digging and finding publishers that are willing to offer free books to readers. So when you interact on the site, you are receiving opportunities to win free books! I've already won three!! They've just added e-books, too, so that's a huge plus for those of us who live overseas. <br />
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Also, they are now publishing a FREE digital magazine featuring many books, interviews with authors and readers, and all sorts of interesting material. It's published online monthly and you can easily access it through the website. They also have a store where you can purchase books directly. I know that many of my friends who follow my blog are readers so I hope that you will check out this great new website. <br />
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Gotta start 'em young! This photo is my 2-year-old grandson in his reading chair. <br />
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What are your sources for encouragement? During my mom's recent visit, she discovered how very very important personal mail (letters or email) is to someone who is living overseas. So, I do receive lots of encouragement from email and letters. Is Christian fiction a valid source of encouragement or should I just stick to my Bible and nonfiction? Feel free to comment below with your views on the subject. I'll write my views in a later blog as well as share with you some of the other places where I find encouragement. <br />
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<br />KJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09491368479987821714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8462461056533285861.post-86618512110614439332013-02-14T11:40:00.000+09:002013-02-14T11:40:04.086+09:00Waiting isn't the easiest for me...Happy Valentine's Day! Yes, it is already Valentine's Day here in Japan. And unlike the Japanese who have been coached by the chocolate society here that this is a day to give chocolate to the men in your life, I have been showering all those I love with special treats. Still working on some, but what a wonderful chance to share some extra love all around. <br />
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This past year has been a roller coaster for me; hence, the lack of posting on this site. Yet, looking back, it's hard to believe that an entire year has passed by. <br />
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Home Assignment was for three months this past summer. Yet, the preparations for Home Assignment start months in advance with scheduling itineraries, purchasing plane tickets, preparing for many different kinds of activities, communicating more frequently, not to mention organizing who will cover our ministry here while we are away. Whew! However, we had a wonderful time connecting with so many of our loved ones and supporters during our brief time in the United States. It was also a great chance to introduce our daughter-in-law, Manaka, and Josiah and her son, Leo to people in the USA as they joined us for several months of our time in the USA. <br />
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Upon our return to Japan in late August, (with Murray following in September), I sensed God speaking to me in a different way. I was energized and refreshed, eager to return to our existing ministries, but also praying about new ministry opportunities. Yet, the message I was receiving was "Wait." "Do what needs to be done immediately but do not start anything new." "Wait!" <br />
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I've never been good at waiting. I've always been eager to move to the next challenge; to jump in with both feet; to make a plan; to set goals and figure out needed steps to accomplish the goals. Over the years I've learned to keep a book at my side just to help me through the waiting times--at the red lights, sitting in traffic, waiting to pick up people at the station, standing in line. You can imagine my delight when e-books arrived on the scene. And now I can carry an entire library of books in my i-phone. (Just in case you're interested, I am currently reading a suspense novel called <u>Red Tide</u>, a debut novel by author Peg Brantley because I loved her second book, <u>The Missings</u>, so much.) <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Red-Tide-ebook/dp/B007OWQ5F6/ref=sr_1_3?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1360808377&sr=1-3&keywords=peg+brantley">[see it here]</a><br />
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Okay, I digress. Perhaps it's because I have been without my ADD meds for a few days. Yes, it's true, I am an officially diagnosed person with ADD. So if my blogs take off on wild tangents, now you can understand why. <br />
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So back to last fall-- I waited. And in mid-October when I received an email followed by phone calls from my mother in Kansas, I understood why God had been telling me to wait. My father had been admitted to the hospital. This was not the first time, nor did I really expect that it would be the last. But, in my heart, THIS TIME, God was sending me a very clear message. I needed to go back to the USA to be with my parents. There are many times in the last few years when my Dad has been close to death. And, yet, I never felt it pressed upon me that I should be making a trip to the USA those times. But, this time, God made it clear. So I went.<br />
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God gave me 10 precious days with my Dad during his hospitalization. I downloaded some of his favorite music onto my laptop to play for him. I read sports news to him. We listened to internet radio. And we talked. We talked about the past, the present and the future. We talked about heaven. He quoted his favorite Scriptures to me. We talked about songs, family, and friends. And God gave me one final chance to serve and love on my dad during his final illness. I also got to spend wonderful time with both my mom and my daughter, more gifts from God. And after my Dad went to be with the Lord, I was able to spend precious days with family members plus several weeks helping my mother with the bulk of the business details that needed to be cared for. <br />
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And then came another surprise!! My mother decided to come to Japan for an extended visit when I returned at the end of November. Her first visit! After all these years, her dream was finally going to come true. Was it perfect timing that she would arrive at the end of November, just when our preparations for the rush of Christmas events would be upon us?! Absolutely. Had God gifted her in such a way that she would be a blessing to both the ministry as well as to the many Japanese people that she would come into contact with?! Absolutely. Have I been extra busy these last months?! Absolutely. But, I could never have created a scenario with the timing of each event of the last six months like God did. And for that, I praise Him!<br />
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My mother just arrived back in Kansas, ready to serve and follow God's plan for the next years of her life. She has always been an example to me and I continue to learn from her how to walk in the paths of righteousness. <br />
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So, I apologize for my silence. I pray that my silence has not prevented you from remembering to pray for the Japanese people and their need of Jesus. <br />
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Looking forward to reinvigorating my updates!<br />
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Kathy TKJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09491368479987821714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8462461056533285861.post-65548567023214271952011-09-05T10:33:00.000+09:002011-09-05T10:33:46.118+09:00A busy summer<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirAzTHzhVFGx_la-Gnrc_s4O58mgSQlB9elQZIhH23ePaU3-XalvA9WxUvLJiMGWrwR_lu8OxyDXfYWIJuRsicGJ08Qq6Z665HLOwUTl8f-A0ONb3CUJRV_CuGsf3R-zWmdgya0ErxLToA/s1600/Nick1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirAzTHzhVFGx_la-Gnrc_s4O58mgSQlB9elQZIhH23ePaU3-XalvA9WxUvLJiMGWrwR_lu8OxyDXfYWIJuRsicGJ08Qq6Z665HLOwUTl8f-A0ONb3CUJRV_CuGsf3R-zWmdgya0ErxLToA/s320/Nick1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nick visiting with some ladies at the July English Cafe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>This summer was an extremely busy one. We were blessed to have a young intern from Moody Bible Institute in Chicago join us from mid-May until early August, Nick Jeschke. Nick's youthful energy and bright red hair reminded us a much younger Murray Trim for whom God used a summer of ministry in Japan in 1978 to call him to full-time service in Japan as a missionary. We had the privilege of hosting Nick, sadly, because the missionaries originally scheduled to host him had to return to the home country of Germany due to complications after the earthquake and tsunami in Northeast Japan. However, we are confident that God brought him to us just when we most needed him. Nick assisted in so many ways, including distributing church brochures in nearby neighborhoods, technology assistance with computers and projectors, planning and preparing for the huge area-wide charity event for the victims of the earthquake and tsunami, teaching and observing English classes, leading English Bible studies, speaking and helping at the monthly English Cafes and much more. Thank you, Nick, for giving your time and energy to serve the Lord in Japan this past summer. KJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09491368479987821714noreply@blogger.com0