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Dear Family and Friends,
The “living hope” that is found in a relationship with Christ was the theme of the Easter message that was given at the Heijo church this year. This living hope is exactly what keeps us going even during times of difficulty and seemingly periods of drought and lack of fruit for our labours. The members of the Heijo church were encouraged by people from the church neighbourhood who came to the Easter service. God brought them to the church and it has been a wonderful catalyst for the church members to be looking outward and taking on more leadership responsibilities. Praise the Lord! Please pray for Makiko who is a seeker. She has been to the Mormon church, Jehovah’s Witness, and other religious organizations in search of truth. She is confused and is wanting to learn more. She will start a beginner’s Bible class soon. Pray that she will truly seek and find Jesus as her Savior and Lord. The picture to the right is of the Friday afternoon bible studies at the Heijo church.
I just came back from a blessed time with the Japan Baptist Conference annual Deeper Life Conference which features a guest speaker to bring us teaching from God’s Word and a time of fellowship with brothers and sisters from our sister churches. This year was an overnight affair which provided a more relaxed atmosphere and a chance to fellowship longer with various people from other churches. We were divided into smaller groups to discuss ideas and brainstorm on various topics regarding church life, prayer and the Word of God, family and societal issues. This year I was able to participate in the youth time and was encouraged by the devotions and the enthusiasm the youth had in praising God. This picture is of the youth praising God at the conference.
Thank you for your continued partnership in the ministry!
Blessings, Yuri Nakano