Richard & Keri Nakamura (Alisha, Brandon, Hanna and Kayla) Church Ministries South of Tokyo is a bustling bedtown called Saginuma. We are serving at the Saginuma Christ Gospel Church, where 30 people squeeze into a converted apartment. Church growth is a challenge in Japan; few men are interested in spiritual things and apathy, materialism, and weariness from overwork abound. Every year many company transfers happen, making it a very transitional ministry at times. Yet God is building His church in this concrete corner of our world. Slowly but surely believers are hungering to know God and apply His Word in their lives, and several young people are making a difference through their zeal for the Lord. God has also brought a handful of single moms and children into our midst. There are many opportunities for evangelism. Through Richard's haircuts, the barber's wife and children are coming to English classes and being exposed to the gospel. Whether greeting people at the lunch shop below the church or mailing letters across the street, we are trying to be a light in this community. We also developed several friendships through the births of our two youngest children. A "typical" day for us involves Richard tackling another sermon in Japanese and doing various Bible studies. Keri homeschools Alisha in the mornings and in the afternoon often meets with friends and/or goes to the local park, where she interacts with other moms. Leading a weekly Bible study has also been a highlight for her. Our day off is Mondays and we often go on a picnic and get refreshed after a busy Sunday. Though at times the work here can be challenging and exhausting, God is filling us with His joy. <<back to missionaries