From our President
Dear Friends in Christ,
This past month, your church council has been continuing their work on "Future Directions" for our congregation. To begin this process, Pastor Tom suggested we challenge ourselves by asking two questions: who are we and more importantly, who do we want to be? In other words, how do we see ourselves as a congregation? And what do we want others to see when they look at us?
After much discussion and a bit of debate, we arrived at an outline that we will present on our website and in other publications under the title "ABOUT US". Based on what can be found in our own constitution and what was said by members in the four discussion meetings last fall, we have answered these questions by stating who we are, what our mission is and what we believe.
In addition, we have determined a set of Core Values that we pray will guide us toward being the congregation we strive to be: a congregation that is a blessing and a tool of the Lord's work to be done here in Tokyo. These core values now become our goals: providing WORSHIP that is inspiring, comforting, and guiding; providing CHRISTIAN EDUCATION for all ages; encouraging FELLOWSHIP that is warm and inviting; and enthusiastically sharing the Gospel through OUTREACH and SERVICE.
With this foundation of knowing who we are and what we want to be, the church council now will approach the questions of HOW. In our upcoming meetings, we will be discussing the best course of action our congregation needs to take in order to thrive and grow in the months and years ahead. Please keep our leaders in your prayers and do not hesitate to share your thoughts with any of us. And feel free to join in our meetings!
It is with joy in our hearts that we thank PT and Adrienne for being with us these past ten weeks. With your help and guidance, we have accomplished so much! By sharing our burdens, you have help to lighten our hearts and rejuvenate our spirits. You have been a great comfort to us and an inspiration to all in your dedication to our ministry and your faith in the Lord. We have been truly blessed by the gift of your presence! Our prayers go with you as you return to the US. Come back soon!
Marcia K.
| 
sheep or like a Vine with a branch, He is that near. Remember, you are not alone. Jesus is alive and present to guide you personally and as a congregation. Keep telling that to each other: "God is with us!" Trust Him. He won't let you down. So, let's celebrate!
April 9 - Palm Sunday Service of Holy Communion 9:30am
Jesus often mentioned in the Bible that believers should ask for anything through His name. We find this in Matthew 7:7-8 and John 14:13-14. He is always waiting for us to do so. What a wonderful thing it is! He is standing by and listening to us.
coffee continues to warm us up together with snacks ** Yoshi's hard work on fixing computers ** Takashi's translations at the tip of a hat ** Mia and Marina sharing acolyte duties ** Nahoko bringing of the gift of her song during the worship service **
