One year has passed since Ralph Justiniano unexpectedly passed away in the summer of 2023. When the Lord took him home, he was participating in a cycling ministry event—something he loved. 

Ralph and his wife, Joan, had been missionaries to the least-reached people of Japan for decades. Their faithful service has made a huge difference, as anyone who met Ralph immediately noticed his unparalleled love for Jesus. He truly viewed his Savior as the deepest treasure of his heart and surrendered every day of his life to Him.

This year, the Japan team members gathered to continue the tradition that Ralph had begun of having a cycling outreach event the last weekend of July. By God’s grace, all the cyclists who were with Ralph last year were able to join again this year. Our global worker, Kyler, says, “It was so special to create space for everyone to mourn, process, and heal in different ways.”

Before the cyclists arrived, Encompass’s Japan staff built a cross and placed it in memory of Ralph at the site where he passed away. “This seemed to be very healing to all of us,” Kyler says.

Another global worker, Kenji, shared a beautiful Gospel-centered devotion in Japanese before their final ride of the weekend. Afterward, a Japanese woman asked Kenji what the passage was because she wanted to read it again when she got home. Mai was able to share her testimony with the participants, and Joan shared the gospel with a teary-eyed member of the group, highlighting our confidence that Ralph is with Jesus.

Ralph had connected with a number of people through this cycling event, and all those who came these last couple of years are looking forward to coming back again every year. Kyler says, “With the bonding we had through sharing this traumatic experience of losing a dear friend, this past year of mourning has seemed to open the door for the Gospel a bit wider.” 

There’s no doubt that in Ralph’s passing, Christ’s family on earth has lost a true brother, a dedicated co-laborer, and an irreplaceable friend. Joan says, “It was not an easy time, but it was precious.” We grieve, but at the same time, we celebrate all the ways God has continued to shine through this loss. 

Please continue to pray for Joan and everyone who was touched by Ralph’s life and ministry. Joan says, “I especially appreciate prayers for Kyler, Kenji and me, as being back here brought up vivid memories. While it was difficult, it is our deepest hope that God used it for His glory. We believe He used it for healing for everyone, but the cyclists still need the deeper healing that comes through the blood of Christ. Please continue to pray to that end.”