God is Moving!

God is Moving!

Greetings from Kyoto, Japan! We hope this autumn finds you blessed and well. Since our last update we have had so many things to be thankful for…

Church

It seems like God has blessed the new church so much. In the last few months a number of people have joined up even though the church’s official start isn't until October. Very exciting for us is that a couple named Drew and Eriko Millar (with baby daughter Mika) have joined as our worship pastors. They are very talented and really have a heart for God and for Kyoto. Please pray for them as they plan a move to Kyoto and Drew searches for work to support themselves.

Another person who joined is Jon Levy. Now, I don’t plan to mention every person that joins the church but Jon is one seriously cool guy! Born and bred in Kyoto to missionary parents, he is a hugely talented professional musician and all round blessing to our church. Please check him out at jonlevymusic.com

In the build-up to our Grand Opening in October we have been eagerly seeking a venue as Mike’s house is too small. We have viewed a few dance studios and believe that we have found just the right place in central Kyoto. A number of pastors and guests from our sister church in the US will make the trip as well as many friends from various churches in Japan. It seems that everyone is excited about a new church plant in Kyoto. We recently hosted a seminar led by Topi Kivimaki, the founder of YWAM in Japan. He, and many others, have prayed for this city for years and they all tell us that now is the time for Kyoto! We feel like there is currently a LOT of momentum! Praise God!

Family

For us coming back from the UK in somewhat disorientated fashion after Maiko was refused a visa (still can’t really believe it!) the church has been a huge blessing to us and we are so thankful to God for this opportunity to serve Him.

To be honest, balancing work, church and family life has been a bit of a challenge for us so please pray that we can get plenty of rest, and that we are able to focus on what is most important.

Daniel has settled very well at school and (apart from school lunches!!) seems to be thriving. He likes music and sports. Sion is still busy speeding around on his balance bike! We are currently looking for a kindergarden for him to start in April but the majority of them in Kyoto are affiliated to Buddhist temples so pray that we can find a good one that is not!

Maiko and I are very thankful to our friends and family around the world for their continued support and prayer. It means so much to us to have people on our side even though we are far away right now. Thank you all!

~Chris