Earlier this year, Glen and his son, Ian, traveled to Africa to see the work of Dave and Stacey Hare, Bible translators working in Cameroon with World Team. They traveled to the village and attended the village church, met their national translators, and were introduced to their primarily oral-based translation process. Bible translation is a long, slow work with time investment measured in decades. The Hares' work is nothing short of astonishing. In a short period of time, they have: learned French and Kwakum, seen people saved and discipled, developed a writing system for Kwakum, begun translating Luke, and much more.
There was also a student retreat that their team put on while they were there. Pastor Dennis from Grace Free Church taught Scripture, Glen led worship, and Ian and the students added plenty of athletic games.
Holy City had the joy of sending out about 20% of their body to plant Pillar Community Church in North Charleston in January. They are deeply thankful to be part of the Lord's mission here in the greater Charleston area. They've also had the great privilege of baptizing a couple of children of members.
Sending a noticeable portion of the church membership puts challenges on Holy City Church as they seek to keep carrying their load as a church. This adds temptations to worry, but the Lord has helped Holy City thus far. Many months back, Drew asked for prayer for three men among the church who were all in different places of unbelief and spiritual need. One of those men was restored a while back, and just this month they have seen the other two make remarkable steps of repentance and faith! They are deeply thankful for the Lord's kindness to give them exactly what they have prayed for!
The whole church faces trials of various kinds, and they would love to be able to count these trials as joys because of the Lord's sovereign plans for our trials. The church has seen some promising attenders take steps away from membership that are discouraging or concerning. They would love to see the Lord bless their prayers for folks from the area to join in worship and membership.
At every level of IK, Immanuel strives to provide excellent care and biblically sound instruction from volunteers who are committed to joyfully serving children. IK volunteers count it a great privilege to partner with families as they love, serve, and train children to love God and his mission. They are intentionally building a foundation of Bible truth into the lives of the next generation as they teach, listen, laugh, discuss, pray, and sing. This army of volunteers labors together to make Christ known by sharing the good news with joy to the children of the church!
Location:
Japan
Population:
117,205,000
Ev. Christian:
0.3%
Main Language:
Japanese
Spiritual Beliefs:
Buddhism
Bible in Heart Language:
Yes
The Japanese are very pragmatic in their spiritual beliefs. Most have very little private time, and they will not spend it on ceremonies, etc. if they don’t expect tangible benefits. Many Japanese are indifferent to and skeptical of established religion. On the outside, they seem to have few needs. However, many have become obsessed with materialistic pleasures, careers, and possessions.