The Potential Impact

What is the potential impact of an English ministry in Japan? Many Japanese parents want their children to learn English and, regardless of their religious background, will send their children to a church offering classes. Knowing this, Pastor Hiroshi and his wife Yumi - with whom we will be partnering - started a VBS (in Nagakute) which incorporated English classes to further share the gospel message. They have seen God work effectively through this ministry. Last year more than 40 children flooded the small church for VBS*. They hope to continue to reach more children and families in their community.

Although teaching English was the original mission, it has become clear that God has much more in store. He has opened doors beyond those we ever envisioned. Yumi was ecstatic when she learned we both teach ballet. She immediately thought of her friend who owns a nearby ballet studio. Without skipping a beat, Yumi reached out to her friend who was equally excited to learn of our visit and asked us to guest teach at her ballet studio. We are thrilled at this door God has opened to build relationships with another student body in Japan. 

Through talking with Yumi, we are continuously learning more about the Japanese culture. For instance, Japan is less than 1% Christian. The need for fellowship with God and an understanding of His truth is evident. Their society heavily emphasizes the well being of the community over that of the individual. There is one ideal of success, and deviations from this standard are not appreciated. Unfortunately, personal failures to meet societal standards have deep and serious repercussions. In a culture which values reputation, suicide is seen as “a way of taking responsibility.” According to the 2014 World Health Organization report, in Japan suicide rates have been 60% higher than the global average. Even more sadly, suicide was the leading cause of death for Japanese school-aged children. In the midst of these staggering statistics, we hope and pray they would ultimately come to know the Source of hope and healing and His peace which surpasses all understanding. ~ Madison & Sarah

*VBS: In the United States, VBS usually stands for "Vacation Bible School." However, in Japan, the word "school" often has a negative connotation to kids as they experience tremendous pressure to excel. Because of this, the Budonoki church decided to have VBS stand for "Vacation Bible Special" instead.