Gary and Naoko in Japan

The most unreached by the Gospel... As we have been sharing with many of you, the northern  area of Japan (known as 'Tohoku')  has been on our heart. We will be taking the first vision trip from 15th to 21st July. This region of Japan that was devastated by the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami remains the most unreached area by the Gospel. Huge idol statues can be found throughout the region (the cover photo is featuring Sendai, the most populous city).  Currently there is no YWAM presence in Tohoku, and we desire to be used by God to start something up there long-term. As our first step, we are taking this trip to go and pray in that region. We will be visiting the three southern prefectures of Fukushima, Yamagata and Miyagi. God has opened up contacts, and we will be sleeping in 3 different churches. We are a team of 6 people, each with a heart for Tohoku, of which half of them are Brits! Please be praying for... God to speak to us through this trip ...

Today, we just want to specifically say thank you to all of our supporters. Thank you for standing with us in prayer, for blessing us financially, and for enabling us to take part in God's work here in Japan. We have received so much encouragement through your continued prayers and generous support (some from close family and friends, some anonymous). You have no idea how much this means to us! During the spring-time as we strolled through a nearby park, we saw a cherry tree with wooden beams supporting its branches. This is commonly seen in Japan, especially when the blossoms weigh down the branches (or when the tree is too old)! You are like that for us. God is enabling us and the church in Japan, through your prayers and support, to grow and blossom for His glory. Please know we thank God for you, and we love to pray for you too! We pray that God will also let you experience the amazing joy (and excitement!) He gives as you live out your days wherever He has placed you n...