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I am deeply grateful for God’s amazing providence and perfect timing, and I continue to sense His hand at work in this new season of my life. I joined TEAM Japan—an organization I first encountered many years ago at a MissionsFest Conference in Edmonton when I was in my twenties. At that time, I remember considering the possibility of serving with them, and now, all these years later, God has brought that connection full circle. I was even told that I am currently the 80th TEAM missionary serving in Japan!
Thank you so much for your prayers for a smooth return to Japan. I’m happy to share that my arrival went well. In a special and meaningful way, the day after I arrived marked my 20th anniversary in missions! I had the joy of celebrating by meeting many TEAM missionaries for the first time, while also reconnecting with dear colleagues from the past—former NAB missionaries Ron and Joan Stoller. It truly felt like a beautiful blending of old and new.
Youth Outdoor Day in the Park
That theme continues as I settle into Tsu City. While this is not a new place for me—I lived here 34 years ago when I first came to Japan as a short-term missionary—it still feels like a fresh beginning. Tsu has long been a starting point for many NAB missionaries, so there is a sense of returning to something familiar. At the same time, I strongly sense that God is at work doing something new, and I am excited to see how He will continue to lead in the days ahead.
Until I can move into my own apartment, I am currently staying on the third floor of the Tsu Christian Education Center, where rooms are available for short-term stays. This is an older building that we hope will be renovated in the near future. It serves as the headquarters of the Japan Baptist Conference.
The Higashis and Rev. Martin
Tsu Baptist Church meets on the ground floor, and Pastor Masaaki Higashi and his wife, Kyoko, live on site and manage the building. One of the blessings of being based in Tsu is its central location among the other JBC churches I will be visiting as I resume facilitating Ladies Seminars. Rev. Tim Martin and Ms. Yuko Miyata from TEAM visited Tsu to discuss the working agreement, and we had a productive conversation clarifying our respective responsibilities.
The Center is also a gathering place for many youth events. I was especially glad to join them for an outdoor day at the park on April 29. It was a joy to reconnect, share a picnic lunch, and enjoy games together.
On May 4, members from three churches in Mie Prefecture, along with others, will gather at the Center for a mini-conference. It will be a special time of worship and encouragement as we hear messages from three pastors.
Looking forward to the days ahead and how God will lead and guide to build His Kingdom. Thank you for your partnership!