Day 14, Church, Games

This morning was different for the whole team, as last night we were split up into 7 groups of 2 and one group of 4 for individual homestays.  Most groups went to their host churches, and a couple came back to BJ’s church.  Those of us at BJ’s church enjoyed lots of singing, BJ’s sermon, and Susan & Gil’s testimony.  We also introduced ourselves and sang our song.  After the service, we met up with most of the others and enjoyed a ramen lunch. 

After lunch, we went to the soccer field for a series of five games.  Not as bad as it sounds.  There were three teams, a rotation of games, and each “game” was only 20 minutes long.  We played 2 games, then a break while the others played, 1 more game and then a break, and then 2 more games.  The first and fifth games were against the Izumi FC Papas, which is is BJ’s team, and the team which Mr. Mizuno is the head of.  We lost the first game 2-0 and tied the fifth game 2-2.  Morgan, who had just missed goals for two days, had the honor of scoring the first goal that BJ (he is the goalkeeper) had allowed all day.  Our second and fourth games were against the Ritsumeikan University women’s team.  We won the first game 1-0 (Ashleigh scored) and tied the fourth game 1-1.  Our third game was against the Kansai Ryo Medical University team.  We also tied this game 1-1.  After the game, we did both the team song and the Japanese song, and Ray did his testimony again.  He wrapped it up wonderfully by making sure he introduced them to BJ, made sure they knew he was a pastor, and encouraged them to seek out BJ if they had questions.  We had also been joined at the game by Joe Adams and Naoko (see yesterday’s blog). 

After the game, we proceeded to the food court and then the sento.  However, we spent so much time fellowshipping with the other 3 teams, that it was decided to stop quickly at McDonalds and then eat on bus while on the way to the sento.  After the sento, it was back to the church for a team meeting and instructions for cleanup the next morning.  The meeting closed with a time to bless and thank BJ & Mary for their hospitality (since BJ had to leave at 4am for the airport).

Pictures

Day 14 Montage