Prayer
I have prayed daily for this event since early this summer, and many of you have joined us in praying as well. The day before the conference, I woke up with a sense of even more urgency to pray. I sought prayer from a handful of close friends along with our team. My conviction was that this gathering might be even more significant than we realized, and in ways we could not fully anticipate. The participants were all leaders, seeking change and help toward that end. I imagine that it will take years for us to see the full effects of the event. Please continue to pray for the renewal of the church in Japan!
Hope
Much of the discussion about church revitalization we hear about comes from older pastors and missionaries worried about the state of their churches. However, the energy of this conference was not one of defeat or regret, but of hope. We had leaders from every generation ranging from twenties to seventies, but the majority of participants were young and eager to grow. In addition to the main session and seminars, attendees participated in table groups where they wrestled with various topics. It was encouraging to see the lively discussions throughout the room. Pray for a growing spirit of hope to flood the church in Japan even amidst challenges.
Diversity
The JOJC Conference attendees came from a diverse array of denominations and organizations. In Japan, denominationally diverse gatherings like this are rare, special, and powerful. Pray for the Lord to bless the connections forged and strengthened at the conference, that His whole church throughout Japan may be transformed by the power of the gospel.
Investment
This conference was an investment in the future of the Japanese church. The main speakers provided compelling vision and practical steps for personal and church renewal. The seminars addressed key topics related to evangelism, discipleship, and more. The conference bookstore stocked all CBI Press titles as well as other carefully curated titles. We gave everyone a free copy of New Morning Mercies in Japanese and a 1,000 yen gift certificate for the book store. All of this was an investment in these leaders. Please pray for the Lord to continue his work through these amazing leaders.
Gathering
We observed a clear desire for leaders to continue gathering to receive encouragement, help, and guidance from peers. Event registration reached capacity weeks in advance. This conference showed the need and opportunity to host similar ministry leader’s gatherings regularly, and perhaps an even larger venue for the next one! Please consider giving today to support future events like this.
Thank you so much for praying for this exciting and important event! Please pray for CBI as we continue to work to help the church in Japan take the gospel deeper and further!
Brett Rayl
