Greetings from Japan.
We do not often get to begin a prayer letter by quoting a Discovery Bible Study friend of Kathryn’s professing, “I am a child of God” but we can this time. Mrs. Y, after 3 years of Bible with Kath says “My problems are all the same, but the way I deal with them has changed because of Jesus”. Praise God for this work in her life.
A common question we field here is “Why are you do in Japan?” Kath often answers with the question, “Have you ever read the Bible?” A lady we met at our twice a week pool swim responded, “yes” and after further questions said she was “sort of a Christian.” Some Christians feel they don’t quite measure up. This new friend asked if Kath would have a conversational English lesson with her and her friend. Pray for open doors for the gospel.
Rob continues to preach every Sunday in small Japanese churches. Many churches are without a pastor, but opportunity to disciple future leaders is a promising reality. Nov. 12-14 Rob will attend a seminar with Japanese pastors, pastors-in-training, and lay leaders in northern Japan. Rob’s good friend, Muroga, will attend as he wants to trade in his auto mechanic shop to be a pastor.
While in Canada we enjoyed some family time with Tess, Jacob, Julia and big boy Raphael. This past week Kath took a quick trip to Manila where Grady and Brit are busy with little Mia.
Family matters are also on our minds. Kath lost both her parents this past year. Dad was 92, and mom 86. Rob’s mom is in palliative care in the Timmins hospital as of this week. She is 95. Rob enjoyed a week with mom in July, 2024. He picked a lot of wild blueberries/raspberries and they enjoyed plenty of fish Rob caught. But sad just now.
All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort.
2Corintians 1:3
Thank you for your prayers. Our Japanese friends and we need them all! Recently, we have been sending more detailed prayer needs to some who are really into praying for our ministry in Japan. If you are interested in getting more than this quarterly update, please let us know.
Rob & Kathryn.
