Welcome Party for Japanese Students Stirs Spiritual Interest

At the beginning of the school year, our Japanese returnee ministry in Long Beach only knew two Japanese students, but by the time they held their Welcome Party, that number had grown to more than 20! “It was a wonderful event,” says Encompass worker Cecil. Many host families, interns, and Japanese believers attended to help connect with and welcome the students who are here to study at American universities. 

The program builds relationships with students by inviting them to a variety of weekly events, and God is at work! “Four students have already asked to meet with us to learn more about the Bible and Christianity!” Cecil says. “We’re praying that even more students will become interested as we continue getting to know them and building friendships.” 

Cecil has been serving on our Long Beach team for 25 years with several dedicated volunteers. One such volunteer is Ray, who has partnered with the program since 2004 in leading a Japanese Gospel Choir. He also takes mission trips to Japan twice a year where he offers gospel music workshops.  

Another volunteer is Ken, who has been a part of our Long Beach program for over 20 years. “Ken and I have enjoyed a wonderful partnership, and we have seen a lot of spiritual fruit,” Cecil says. “It has also been fun watching Ken's daughter, Ellie, trust Christ since childhood—and now she ministers to young women as a volunteer.” 

And after completing an Encompass team internship in Japan this past summer, Audrey now volunteers with the Long Beach program. “She brings a lot of smiles and enthusiasm to the ministry and the students love her,” Cecil says. 

Shuto is a Japanese young man who recently became a believer through our Long Beach ministry, and he is now completing a six-month ministry internship in Japan. “I connect with him once or twice a month to continue our discipleship time,” Cecil says. “He still feels very strongly that God is leading him into full-time ministry.” 

On behalf of the Long Beach team, Cecil thanks everyone who has given to the Japanese Returnee Ministry. “Your generosity enables us to provide quality events that help us build relationships and stay connected with the students throughout the week,” he says. “Please pray that God will continue to open doors for us to share the good news of Jesus Christ with each of them.”