Year 2001
In 1995, Frank Sapp followed James A. McAlpine as the Coordinator of the Hour For Christ Radio Committee in Japan.
This program is heard over CBC Radio in Central Japan, which potentially could reach into almost 1,000,000 homes. In addition, over HCJB Radio on (short Wave radio) the broadcast can be heard throughout South America and North America where many Japanese live and work. We earlier broadcast over stations on the Island of Shikoku and in the Kinki Area, which have become self suporting during the last ten years.
The programming is a cooperative venture by the PCUSA, The United Church of Japan, The Reformed Church of Japan, Kinjo University, and Nagoya University.
The Radio Program has grown progressively more financially independent over the years, but 1997 saw a steep reduction in income due in large measure to the recession which at that time hit Japan and has lasted almost a decade. In 1997 Offerings received from Churches within Japan totaled 4,071,986 Yen (about $29,085.61) But this fell short of our expenses by 775,936 Yen! ($5,542.40) The next year saw improvement in our financial situation as supporters rallied to the Ministry's aid. Finances are still tenous, however, and it does not help that the US economy has also been having its difficulties as well shutting off all but a pittance of support from there.
Picture of a Recording Session
There is very little in the way of Christian Radio or Television Programming in Japan. There are no Christian Radio Stations in Japan, because by law it is impossible for any religious group to own or operate a broadcast station. Neither does public service broadcast extend to religious groups in Japan. As a result, all time must be purchased over commercial stations.
Our air time alone for 1997 ran 4,096,000 Yen, which was some 82% of the Radio Committee Budget for 1997. Information about Support of this ministry is found in the link below to "Extra Committment Opportunities".
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