Greetings from Osaka! Praise God for a safe flight and arrival in Japan. It’s been a great time of fellowship and getting to know (for the Hu Family) and reuniting with (for Jennifer) the members of Hatta-Nishi Christ Church. It’s also been sweet spending time with Ray and Shelley. Here are some pictures and brief updates of what we’ve been up to.
Thanks to all who showed up to send us off from LAX Thursday morning.
Checking out the new and improved LAX International Terminal.
On the plane.
Layover at Incheon International Airport (ICN).
We received a very warm welcome on Friday night from the members of HCC upon our arrival in Osaka.
The weather has been temperate and not too hot or humid.
On Saturday, Akiko-san and the Bansho Family brought us to visit the Osaka Aquarium (Tempozan Harbor Village).
Afterwards, several of the church members prepared a nice dinner for us at the church. Even in the first few days, we have been tremendously blessed by the sacrificial love and care of many of the HCC members.
On Sunday we had a chance to meet the HCC children, be introduced to the HCC congregation, convey our IBC greetings and appreciation for their ministry to the Kwans and to us, and after the main service, we all ate lunch together.
After lunch, Wayne and Mel shared their testimonies to the HCC congregation and responded to questions in a time of Q&A.
Kashima-san then invited us and some HCC members to her home for an amazing dinner.
It took about 2 days to get over the jet lag and now everyone has been resting and adjusting fine. Jocie’s been enjoying her same passions here in Japan — cooking, eating, and shopping.
We have been encouraged greatly and have learned much from the hospitality and ministry of the church members here at HCC. What a blessing being able to fellowship, worship, and serve the Lord together with believers overseas here in Japan! HCC members also send their greetings.
Please be praying for us and for the salvation of the kids as we will begin our “Joyful Kids” VBS program today (Tuesday), which will continue until Friday. Each day will consist of singing, Bible lessons, crafts, games, and English lessons. We have a good group of almost 30 kids coming out this summer!
And finally, a shout out to our IBC pastors!
