Greetings from Japan!
With the end of summer comes the beginning of school for many children around the world. Japan has the highest child suicide rate in the world. So much pressure is put on the children to succeed in school that they feel they can’t cope and decide the only solution is to end their lives. We are so thankful to have you working with us to share God’s love and hope with the Japanese children and youth, showing them they can find hope in Christ each day. We read the story of Jesus feeding the five thousand in our English conversation class. The kids had never heard the story before and were amazed to learn it actually happened. We were able to share with the children that just as Jesus used what the little boy had to offer to feed five thousand people, God can use whatever we give to Him to help us and the people around us. Pray with us that these children and their parents will learn that they can turn to Christ with all of their needs.
We enjoyed having Abigail Bishop here for an internship from Holmes Bible College for two months. She was able to experience Japanese culture first hand as well as attend our Japanese church and help with several of our English classes. The Children in our Sunday School were blessed by her help, and the ladies in our Bible study enjoyed getting to know her as well.
Abigail helping with Sunday School
Olivia had the opportunity to perform in a gospel concert with several other kids from our Sunday School. An American high school choir, directed by our Japanese pastor’s daughter, also performed at the concert. There were around 200 performers. In addition to the singing, several people gave testimonies about what God has been doing in their lives. It was a great opportunity for everyone in attendance to hear the gospel message while listening to praise songs. Please pray with us that those who heard the gospel message would have a desire to know more about Jesus who came to earth for each one of them.
Olivia at the gospel concert
This summer, Ax served as a camp counselor at three separate camps. There were around 150 kids who participated, ranging from first through eighth grade. In addition to many outdoor games and activities, they had a worship service in the morning and evening as well as a time for cabin devotions. Ax said it was great to hear the kids asking questions about Jesus and the gospel message. Two kids in Ax’s cabin committed their life to Christ during the camp! Please pray with us that these two boys will continue to grow in their new walk with Christ.
Ax and his campers
Hunter was able to compete in the 14th all Saitama State Swim Competition this summer. His work ethic and joy are evident to his teammates and other competitors. Pray with us that Hunter can continue to share God’s love through his sportsmanship and friendships with his teammates.
Hunter at his swim competition
Justin enrolled at Liberty University this September. He is studying Philosophy with an emphasis in Apologetics. Eryn was thankful for the chance to go with him to get him settled into college. Though we are sad to be so far away, we are excited about this opportunity for Justin to study, and we are looking forward to seeing all God has in store for him during this time. Please pray for Justin as he adjusts to college life and being so far from family, as well as for us as we adjust to his absence.
May God continue to bless you for your commitment and faithfulness to the Great Commission! Because of your prayers and support, so many Japanese people have been able to hear the gospel message!
Your Missionaries to Japan,
Hiro, Eryn, Justin, Ax, Hunter, and Olivia Bamba
