Today was a much needed day of rest and not having to be "on" for ministry. It was a day free to do some sightseeing on the island of Miyajima (known for its famous Torii Gate & free-roaming deer). It was time to do some shopping, enjoying the culture and another team picture in from of a Pagoda. After Miyajima, we went to the Peace Park in Hiroshima. While it rained on and off, it was mostly off and even the times it rained was not too bad (as opposed to today--as I write this it is pouring outside). The visit to the Peace Park was very moving to everyone. Seeing actual pictures, and particularly reading the stories of actual survivors brought many of us to tears. Reading about it is one thing--seeing it is another. After Hiroshima, came the long awaited trip to a sushi bar. We had had to postpone it twice due to unexpected schedule changes (what else is new on an outreach trip), but we finally got it in and the guys loved it. After dinner, one last trip to the sento and back to the church. While this was a day not to be "on", we had many, many opportunities to pass out brochures, Paul's life story and generally meet and engage a lot of people. Pray that these contacts, as short as some of them may have been, will spark something in them to follow up and ask questions. The brochure and the life story have contact points should the readers want to find out more.
This will be the last blog entry as today is just the trip home, and by the time an entry could be done, everyone will be home and can report personally. It was a great trip and I am sure that it will change many of the guys. We had a lot of chances to share, continued building old relationships, broke a lot of new ground, and enjoyed meeting people who were the fruit of prior trips. Continue to pray as you think of Japan, for those faithful people working here (including Pastor BJ, Masa & Chie, Pastor Hasui, and Pastor's Glenn & Keegan) and that they may have plenty of opportunities to continue and further the seeds that we helped plant & water.
If you feel led to support this ministry, you can do so by contacting MAI or the Seahorses, or if you want to specifically support Japan, there is a link on the blog to support Masa & Chie. Also, consider supporting next year's trip as it will be the Biola Women's Team. Thanks again for all your prayers. We couldn't have done it without you.
Pictures (8/19)
Pictures (Complete)
Video Montage (8/19)
Monday, August 19, 2019
Sunday, August 18, 2019
Day 14, August 18, Church, Games
NOTE THAT PAUL, KOUSEI, DANIEL & LEO WERE INTERVIEWED ON A RADIO STATION. IT WAS LIVE. YOU CAN FIND THE INTERVIEW IN THE BLOG HEADER, EITHER THE COMPLETE INTERVIEW, OR THE EDITED ENGLISH ONLY VERSION.
We woke up at 7 to eat breakfast and then clean up for the church service. All of our stuff had to be packed up as if to leave and carried downstairs to a storage room until after church. At 12, we had lunch across the street again at Sako's. Darn, BLT's again. Oh hurt me. Then we had down time until 4 when we began the shuttle service to the field for the games tonight with F-18 pilot Russell Davis' new soccer ministry. We got there early and had about 90 minutes to kill until game time. The facility is just a few years old and beautiful. When it was finally opened, it just so happened that the Seahorses were in town for a tour and had the honor of playing the very first game there. There were six teams that played, so we play short 20 minute or 15 minute games so everyone could play each other. The team from our host church, Calvary Chapel Iwakuni won the tournament. JMac and Axel played for them. After the game, Russell Davis closed the time with an encouragement for those who came tonight, to keep coming to the pickup games that they have every two weeks. The turnout tonight was great, which was exactly what we had hoped our presence would do to give Russell's new ministry a boost. After Russell spoke, Todd did his testimony and we passed out the team brochures and Paul's life story in both English and Japanese. Then we were shuttled to McDonalds for dinner. The ordering got really messed up and it took almost 2 hours to get out of there. We didn't get back to the church until almost midnight. Tomorrow we get to go to Hiroshima and Miyajima.
Pictures (8/18)
Pictures (Complete)
Video Montage (8/18) (3:05)
We woke up at 7 to eat breakfast and then clean up for the church service. All of our stuff had to be packed up as if to leave and carried downstairs to a storage room until after church. At 12, we had lunch across the street again at Sako's. Darn, BLT's again. Oh hurt me. Then we had down time until 4 when we began the shuttle service to the field for the games tonight with F-18 pilot Russell Davis' new soccer ministry. We got there early and had about 90 minutes to kill until game time. The facility is just a few years old and beautiful. When it was finally opened, it just so happened that the Seahorses were in town for a tour and had the honor of playing the very first game there. There were six teams that played, so we play short 20 minute or 15 minute games so everyone could play each other. The team from our host church, Calvary Chapel Iwakuni won the tournament. JMac and Axel played for them. After the game, Russell Davis closed the time with an encouragement for those who came tonight, to keep coming to the pickup games that they have every two weeks. The turnout tonight was great, which was exactly what we had hoped our presence would do to give Russell's new ministry a boost. After Russell spoke, Todd did his testimony and we passed out the team brochures and Paul's life story in both English and Japanese. Then we were shuttled to McDonalds for dinner. The ordering got really messed up and it took almost 2 hours to get out of there. We didn't get back to the church until almost midnight. Tomorrow we get to go to Hiroshima and Miyajima.
Pictures (8/18)
Pictures (Complete)
Video Montage (8/18) (3:05)
Saturday, August 17, 2019
Day 13, August 17, Slow morning, BLT's, Kintai Bridge, All Testimonies
NOTE THAT PAUL, KOUSEI, DANIEL & LEO WERE INTERVIEWED ON A RADIO STATION. IT WAS LIVE. YOU CAN FIND THE INTERVIEW IN THE BLOG HEADER, EITHER THE COMPLETE INTERVIEW, OR THE EDITED ENGLISH ONLY VERSION.
Summary version:
This was a slow relaxing morning for most of the team as we did not have anything to do until lunch at 1pm. Breakfast was at 9 and then Paul, Kousei, Daniel & Leo were off to do an interview at a local radio station. They joined us for lunch and then we took taxi's to the Kintai Bridge area for some general sightseeing and the traditional team picture. Then it was home by taxi again and a pizza dinner. We all needed the down time.
Extended version:
When we got to the bridge, it was too late in the day to be able to visit the castle as it closed so soon that we would not be able to have time to get up there. So, we just enjoyed the 100 flavor ice cream store, and walked the grounds, which included a visit to the location of Paul's childhood home. The amazing thing about that visit, is that when we arrived at the spot, there was an elderly man parking next door who was looking at us quizzically (wouldn't you?). So, Paul walked over to talk to him to explain why we were there. When Paul mentioned that he used to live there, the man, without prompting, asked if he knew Vince & Virginia Gizzi (Paul's parents). What are the odds! (actually, where God is concerned, the odds are very good). Anyway, both Paul and the man were thrilled at this encounter. The man had lived in this location for 47 years, so of course, knew Paul and his parents. They exchange e-mails and intend to stay connected.
Because we were not able to do the castle, Paul said that guys could swim in the river, but upriver from the bridge where the water is calm (they had already been prepared by bringing swim gear). Ultimately, I think they enjoyed this as much as they would have the castle. They had about an hour and a half to enjoy the water.
As we were leaving and crossing the bridge, we ran into a family from the base. The son (14) recognized Paul from his trip in June where they did a clinic at the base. The mom is a teacher at the Matthew C. Perry school where Paul went when he lived here. Again, what are the odds of leaving at that exact right moment. Love it when God shows up like that!
Before dinner, Paul shared with us that he had already heard from one of the Japanese guys we met on the train ride to Tokuyama. He wanted to share pictures and stay connected. You never know where ministry is going to happen. After dinner, Paul, Kousei, Daniel & Leo shared about their time (30 mins) being interviewed on live radio. It was a local station, but you could find it on the internet and a number of people listened to it (we have a copy, and we hope to post it on the blog at some point). The four gave a generally accounting of what we did, but were able to include some information about that we were Christians and sharing about Jesus. After their interview, they made visits to several community locations for "Meet & Greets". Just getting to know them and setting up the possibilities of ministries in the future. This station wants to do another interview with Paul when he comes for his set-up trip in March, and two more interviews next summer when the Biola women come.
So, a slow day, but still one packed with the Lord at work! Thanks for your prayers. Tomorrow our big event is the evening soccer time with Russell the F-18 pilot who has started a soccer ministry, so we are showing up to give it a boost.
Pictures (8/17)
Pictures (Complete)
Video Montage (8/17)
(Testimonies were all translated, but have had those portions edited out)
Testimony, Jake, Kindai, 8/9 (3:19)
Testimony, Alex, Masa's Aft Team (only partial), 8/10 (0:39)
Testimony, David, Masa's Clinic, 8/10 (3:07)
Testimony, Todd, FC Papas (Mr Mizuno's team), 8/11 (2:03)
Testimony, Leo, Tokuyama University, 8/16 (2:05)
Summary version:
This was a slow relaxing morning for most of the team as we did not have anything to do until lunch at 1pm. Breakfast was at 9 and then Paul, Kousei, Daniel & Leo were off to do an interview at a local radio station. They joined us for lunch and then we took taxi's to the Kintai Bridge area for some general sightseeing and the traditional team picture. Then it was home by taxi again and a pizza dinner. We all needed the down time.
Extended version:
When we got to the bridge, it was too late in the day to be able to visit the castle as it closed so soon that we would not be able to have time to get up there. So, we just enjoyed the 100 flavor ice cream store, and walked the grounds, which included a visit to the location of Paul's childhood home. The amazing thing about that visit, is that when we arrived at the spot, there was an elderly man parking next door who was looking at us quizzically (wouldn't you?). So, Paul walked over to talk to him to explain why we were there. When Paul mentioned that he used to live there, the man, without prompting, asked if he knew Vince & Virginia Gizzi (Paul's parents). What are the odds! (actually, where God is concerned, the odds are very good). Anyway, both Paul and the man were thrilled at this encounter. The man had lived in this location for 47 years, so of course, knew Paul and his parents. They exchange e-mails and intend to stay connected.
Because we were not able to do the castle, Paul said that guys could swim in the river, but upriver from the bridge where the water is calm (they had already been prepared by bringing swim gear). Ultimately, I think they enjoyed this as much as they would have the castle. They had about an hour and a half to enjoy the water.
As we were leaving and crossing the bridge, we ran into a family from the base. The son (14) recognized Paul from his trip in June where they did a clinic at the base. The mom is a teacher at the Matthew C. Perry school where Paul went when he lived here. Again, what are the odds of leaving at that exact right moment. Love it when God shows up like that!
Before dinner, Paul shared with us that he had already heard from one of the Japanese guys we met on the train ride to Tokuyama. He wanted to share pictures and stay connected. You never know where ministry is going to happen. After dinner, Paul, Kousei, Daniel & Leo shared about their time (30 mins) being interviewed on live radio. It was a local station, but you could find it on the internet and a number of people listened to it (we have a copy, and we hope to post it on the blog at some point). The four gave a generally accounting of what we did, but were able to include some information about that we were Christians and sharing about Jesus. After their interview, they made visits to several community locations for "Meet & Greets". Just getting to know them and setting up the possibilities of ministries in the future. This station wants to do another interview with Paul when he comes for his set-up trip in March, and two more interviews next summer when the Biola women come.
So, a slow day, but still one packed with the Lord at work! Thanks for your prayers. Tomorrow our big event is the evening soccer time with Russell the F-18 pilot who has started a soccer ministry, so we are showing up to give it a boost.
Pictures (8/17)
Pictures (Complete)
Video Montage (8/17)
(Testimonies were all translated, but have had those portions edited out)
Testimony, Jake, Kindai, 8/9 (3:19)
Testimony, Alex, Masa's Aft Team (only partial), 8/10 (0:39)
Testimony, David, Masa's Clinic, 8/10 (3:07)
Testimony, Todd, FC Papas (Mr Mizuno's team), 8/11 (2:03)
Testimony, Leo, Tokuyama University, 8/16 (2:05)
Friday, August 16, 2019
Day 12, August 16, Kindergarten (not), Lunch (not), Tokuyama game, High School Meet & Greet (not)
Well, an unusual day. We were supposed to start in the morning with a visit to a Buddhist kindergarten, and they were to pick us up in these special buses, but at the last minute they could not get a driver for the buses, so that had to be canceled. We then just decided to leave early for the train station and hang out there until it was time to leave for Tokuyama. The train ride to Tokuyama was about an hour and then the Tokuyama University bus picked us up for a 15 minute ride to the school. We played two 25-min halves, did our cheer, Leo did a testimony, we passed out the team brochure, and Paul passed out his life story and how it relates to Japan (printed in Japanese). We saw a lot of them reading these immediately. After the game there was some general mixing and fellowship time. We had a quick shower and then finally had lunch at 3:30--the lunch we were supposed to have on the train didn't work out, so Paul had bought some energy food at the station and then we ate lunch late (3:45pm) That's ministry--flexibility. After "lunch", we went to a new location. It was a high school where we were to have a "meet & greet", just generally a time to get to know them, play some icebreaker games and such. However, this too didn't happen (they do say things come in threes). They were so excited to play an American team, that our "meet & greet" became two 15 min halves. They had U.S. and Japan flags to hold for our group picture and wanted us to sing our national anthem and then they sang theirs. After the game, we did our cheer, Leo gave his testimony again, and we passed out the team brochure and Paul passed out his life story. Then there was some general mixing and lots of picture taking. After this, we took the train back home, ate dinner near the train station, walked to the sento and then back to the church.
Continue to pray for these encounters that the words they heard, many for the first time we're sure, would prompt something in their hearts, and that could be the beginning of many more visits.
Pictures (8/16)
Pictures (Complete)
Video Montage (8/16), 6:08
Singing the National Anthem, 1:22
Japanese High School Boys Singing their anthem, 0:48
Bo-te-le-li, 8-16, (one of their guys came out and joined us the first time)
Bo-te-le-li, Both teams, 8-16 (they love the opportunity to get crazy)
Game Highlights, Tokuyama, 8-16, 2:58
Post-game fun, Tokuyama, 8-16, 2:43 (the first thing we did, "Pen, Pineapple, Apple, Pen" is apparently a YouTube viral sensation (over 278 million views). We did not plan on doing this, it was just kind of spontaneous)
Continue to pray for these encounters that the words they heard, many for the first time we're sure, would prompt something in their hearts, and that could be the beginning of many more visits.
Pictures (8/16)
Pictures (Complete)
Video Montage (8/16), 6:08
Singing the National Anthem, 1:22
Japanese High School Boys Singing their anthem, 0:48
Bo-te-le-li, 8-16, (one of their guys came out and joined us the first time)
Bo-te-le-li, Both teams, 8-16 (they love the opportunity to get crazy)
Game Highlights, Tokuyama, 8-16, 2:58
Post-game fun, Tokuyama, 8-16, 2:43 (the first thing we did, "Pen, Pineapple, Apple, Pen" is apparently a YouTube viral sensation (over 278 million views). We did not plan on doing this, it was just kind of spontaneous)
Thursday, August 15, 2019
Day 11, August 15, Travel (Iwata to Iwakuni)
Wake-up was early at 6:45 so that we could pack and clean up the church before we left. Breakfast at 7:30-8 and then leave to walk to the bus, so it was a quick morning. It is always tough to say goodbye, particularly when the stay was so short, but it was good to hear from Pastor Hasui this morning on the impact that we've already had for just this trip (see video montage). Thank you for your prayers as there was some initial concern that the typhoon would force the closure of the highway. It did not. When we arrived, one of the locals told us that the typhoon had come up north from Okinawa, but when it got to this area, it veered off to the west. Praise God. We have a great set-up here, and have some great new partners to work with in Pastor Glenn and Pastor Keegan. In addition to the ground-breaking ministry, there will also be some time for sightseeing--but more on that later. Thanks again and keep praying.
Pictures (8/15)
Pictures (Complete)
Video Montage (8/15)
Team Skit with Explanation (8/14--not time for it yesterday)
Team Song with Explanation (8/14-not time for it yesterday)
Pictures (8/15)
Pictures (Complete)
Video Montage (8/15)
Team Skit with Explanation (8/14--not time for it yesterday)
Team Song with Explanation (8/14-not time for it yesterday)
Wednesday, August 14, 2019
Day 10, August 14, Elementary School Clinic, English Class, Game, Pro Soccer
Today's schedule was pretty much the same as yesterday, except that the typhoon coming through Japan impacted us partially. It was raining on and off most of the morning. We did the same clinic games we did yesterday (see pictures and video). At about 9:30-10 it was absolutely pouring, but then not 30 minutes later it was stopped with blue sky and partial clouds. While today was the same schedule for us, most of the kids today were different than the ones yesterday. This has been a great inroad for Pastor Hasui. It is his first contact with them, and this group of guys has had a fantastic impact because of their enthusiasm (more later). Our presence has also helped him further his relation with those two soccer officials.
After the morning clinic, it back to the church for lunch. During lunch, I personally talked with two ladies who brought their kids from over an hour away just to come to the clinic (these two ladies were already believers). This shows what a draw the Biola/Seahorse tours are. Pastor Hasui told us in his goodby comments that there is already some fruit as one lady told him that she wants to visit his church and bring her son. God is good. Pray that there will be more contacts like this now that our visit has opened the doors.
After lunch we did English time again. The Biola guys had been split into two groups. One helped out yesterday and the other today. You can tell from pictures and video that the kids had great time.
We said goodbye to the kids and then it was off for another game with the SSU men, but a different group than yesterday. The weather was different too. Very This group was a little more physical than yesterday's group and Pastor Hasui noted that even though the game was rough, they could see from our spirits after the game that we could let that go and have fun. It is amazing how much that Bo-te-le-li cheer can have an impact on them. They tend to be reserved, and to see that Christians can have fun and be crazy, gives them the permission to do so too. Pastor Hasui said that our enthusiasm and attitude even led one of the guys to tell Pastor that he also wanted to come to his church. This is what our ministry does--provide that bridge to the Pastor that he then can develop when we are not there.
We finished the game, and then Paul had a surprise for the team. Iwata is home to a professional soccer team (Jubilo Iwata), so we picked up Bento dinners and took them in and ate them at the game. It was an amazing experience. The Jubilo team won 6-0, and there were even some scores that didn't count. You will have to ask you individual member about details, but the most amazing goal was won that was from about 50 yards out and caught the goalie "cheating". There was a cheering section that some of the guys joined on the outskirts of--cheered the entire game. At one point our guys were so enthusiastic, they were invited to sit in the middle of the group. Great to see the men rewarded for all their hard work.
Tomorrow we have a bus ride anywhere from 8-10 hours and right into typhoon area. There is a chance the freeways could be closed. As I write this on the bus, the freeways are clear, but pray that they stay that way.
Lastly, thank you every day for your prayers. Despite the wet weather, and slick & muddy clinic and game fields, there have been no injuries so far.
Pictures (8/14)
Pictures (Complete)
Video Montage (8/14)
After the morning clinic, it back to the church for lunch. During lunch, I personally talked with two ladies who brought their kids from over an hour away just to come to the clinic (these two ladies were already believers). This shows what a draw the Biola/Seahorse tours are. Pastor Hasui told us in his goodby comments that there is already some fruit as one lady told him that she wants to visit his church and bring her son. God is good. Pray that there will be more contacts like this now that our visit has opened the doors.
After lunch we did English time again. The Biola guys had been split into two groups. One helped out yesterday and the other today. You can tell from pictures and video that the kids had great time.
We said goodbye to the kids and then it was off for another game with the SSU men, but a different group than yesterday. The weather was different too. Very This group was a little more physical than yesterday's group and Pastor Hasui noted that even though the game was rough, they could see from our spirits after the game that we could let that go and have fun. It is amazing how much that Bo-te-le-li cheer can have an impact on them. They tend to be reserved, and to see that Christians can have fun and be crazy, gives them the permission to do so too. Pastor Hasui said that our enthusiasm and attitude even led one of the guys to tell Pastor that he also wanted to come to his church. This is what our ministry does--provide that bridge to the Pastor that he then can develop when we are not there.
We finished the game, and then Paul had a surprise for the team. Iwata is home to a professional soccer team (Jubilo Iwata), so we picked up Bento dinners and took them in and ate them at the game. It was an amazing experience. The Jubilo team won 6-0, and there were even some scores that didn't count. You will have to ask you individual member about details, but the most amazing goal was won that was from about 50 yards out and caught the goalie "cheating". There was a cheering section that some of the guys joined on the outskirts of--cheered the entire game. At one point our guys were so enthusiastic, they were invited to sit in the middle of the group. Great to see the men rewarded for all their hard work.
Tomorrow we have a bus ride anywhere from 8-10 hours and right into typhoon area. There is a chance the freeways could be closed. As I write this on the bus, the freeways are clear, but pray that they stay that way.
Lastly, thank you every day for your prayers. Despite the wet weather, and slick & muddy clinic and game fields, there have been no injuries so far.
Pictures (8/14)
Pictures (Complete)
Video Montage (8/14)
Tuesday, August 13, 2019
Day 9, Elementary School Clinic, English Class, Game
Early day today with breakfast at 7:30, and leave to walk to the clinic at 8:30. It was a clinic at the elementary school (about 3 blocks away) and was arranged by those two soccer officials who were here last night. Lots of skills and drills and just generally building relationships. There are so many pictures as the kids and Biola men enjoyed each other so much. While we were not able to do any program at this clinic, we were able to pass out our brochures, which have the gospel message on the back. In addition, the kids came and joined us for lunch at the church and were able to further the relationships started at the clinic. This also got the kids to go into a church, some probably for the first time, which hopefully will itself bear fruit. Because we were at the church, we could do our skit and song, each with an interpreted message. After lunch it was about 2 hours of English time, playing various mixing games, and question asking games which helped you learn about someone, but, more importantly, it gave them the opportunity to practice English. Pray that having been in the church once, that they will come back and bring their parents. We had about 40 minutes of a break, and then it was off at 3:30 for a game with SSU (Shizouka Sangyo University). This is the team that has sent both its mens and womens teams on their own tours to the U.S. This continues to build the relationship with that team and its coach (the same one we have seen for years). The game was good (we lost) but we continue to maintain that relationship and keep them connected with Pastor Hasui, and we have seen in the past players from that team come to church. We also encouraged them to do another tour to the U.S. Pray not only that this continuing relationship will bear more fruit, but pray also for the SSU team member who was injured during the game (shoulder) and actually taken off the field on a stretcher and then picked up by an ambulance. We at dinner at Gusto and then home to bed. Tomorrow we pretty much repeat today's schedule, except the SSU game will be against different players. Pray that two days in a row brings some kind of fruit. Thanks for your prayers for health as we have had no player injuries on the tour.
Pictures (8/13)
Pictures (complete)
Video Montage (8/13)
Team Song-Hip Hip Hooray Hippopotamus (8/13, for English class)
Team Skit-David & Goliath (8/13) for English class
Bo-te-le-li with English Class
Game Highlights with SSU (8/13)
Bo-te-le-li with SSU (8/13)
Pictures (8/13)
Pictures (complete)
Video Montage (8/13)
Team Song-Hip Hip Hooray Hippopotamus (8/13, for English class)
Team Skit-David & Goliath (8/13) for English class
Bo-te-le-li with English Class
Game Highlights with SSU (8/13)
Bo-te-le-li with SSU (8/13)
Monday, August 12, 2019
Day 8, August 12, Travel
Today was actually a relaxing day, not much to write. We could sleep in a little, and then had to pack all our gear, deflate our air beds and clean up the church and put it back the way it was when we came. We ate breakfast and then carried (rolled) our luggage a block and a half to the bus because it is a full-sized, 55 seat bus that is too big to fit on the street where Pastor BJ's church is. 2 hours to the first stop and lunch. 2 hours to the next stop (by law bus drivers have to stop at least every 2 hours). The final leg was about 30 mins to Iwata. We then got set up in the church sanctuary, had fellowship, dinner, practiced our hippo song, practiced our David and Goliath skit & then sento. During our fellowship time, we had two visitors who spoke. One is the chairman of the Iwata City Soccer Association, and the other was a team coach and chairman of the Junior High Soccer Association. These men are not believers so pray that the impact our team has on them is positive, and that it will help facilitate Pastor Hasui's ability to reach places he couldn't normally reach because of their influence. Thanks for your health prayers too as the colds seem to be getting better.
Pictures (8/12)
Pictures (Complete)
Video Montage (8/12)
Team Song (Hip Hip Hooray Hippopotamus, 8/12, Practice)
Team Skit (David & Goliath, 8/12, Practice)
Pictures (8/12)
Pictures (Complete)
Video Montage (8/12)
Team Song (Hip Hip Hooray Hippopotamus, 8/12, Practice)
Team Skit (David & Goliath, 8/12, Practice)
Sunday, August 11, 2019
Day 7, August 11, Church, Game
Today was a very relaxing day. Last night, 15 players left and stayed at the Uenoshiba church. Four others went to another church, and the rest stayed at Pastor BJ's. All expressed their joy at being able to worship with the Japanese. The churches are very small and I am always impressed at how faithful they despite their numbers. At Pastor BJ's church, we had the pleasure of meeting his sister and family. The husband is a pastor, and they have recently moved back from Chicago to work at a church in Nagoya. At each church, after the service, we had lunch with the church members. They do this every week. After the services, we had free time until 5pm, when we left for the game with Mr Mizuno's team. He has been involved with the Seahorses for many years and is the captain of the team that BJ plays on called the F.C. Papas. We played 20 minutes against them, and then played 2 20 minute periods of 15 v 15 (instead of the normal 11 v 11). It was a great time. Afterwards we gave gifts of the team brochure and a Seahorse lanyard and Todd gave his testimony. Pray that the Todd's words and the message on the back of the brochure will find their way into their hearts. We showered at the field and then had dinner at Big Boy (formerly Bob's Big Boy).
Pictures (8/11)
Pictures (Complete)
Video Montage (8/11)
Game Highlights (Mr. Mizuno's team)
Pictures (8/11)
Pictures (Complete)
Video Montage (8/11)
Game Highlights (Mr. Mizuno's team)
Saturday, August 10, 2019
Day 6, August 10, Jr. High Clinic, Game, Evening Clinic
Two things before we start today's blog. Yesterday's blog (Day 5, 8/9) has been completed with all pictures labeled and about 5 videos added, so if you read it before, you might want to go back to check it out.
Secondly, I want to give a big shout-out to Kousei. I was way behind in the blog and had no way of catching up, as yesterday was so busy, but during the afternoon game with Masa's team, after shooting some footage, I had time to work on it. Kousei had purchased a hot spot that he graciously allowed me to use. Without that I would never have caught up. Thank you Kousei!!
Blog-abbreviated version:
It was an early morning as we had to leave about 7:30 and eat breakfast on the bus. It was about a 90 minute ride to the Junior High where we had a clinic with the Junior High kids. We played various games and skills and sang our Bo-te-le-li song. We then took the bus to our next location, and had a Bento lunch in an air conditioned room, followed by the game with Masa's friends. After the game, we went to our last location, ate lunch in the food court (1st floor) and then had the clinic with Masa's school up on the roof (8th floor). After the clinic, it was off to the sento to clean up. By the time all was said and done, we didn't get back until midnight, and then 15 of the players were off to stay at a church overnight and then attend that church in the morning.
Blog-Extended Version
Junior High: The junior high we went to is where Joe Yokota attends (Masa & Chie's son--14). Being a public school, Masa said they probably would not be that open to have the Seahorses come, but having built a relationship (that's what it's all about here in Japan) with the coach and teachers over the last 6 months, it was agreed that having some international experience would be a good thing. While we could not share our testimony, we could share our attitudes and pass out the brochures which has a plan of salvation on the back in Japanese. Through building these relationships, maybe a future year will allow a testimony, or maybe kids/parents will just be curious as to who we are.
Masa's team: This game was more of just a friendly match, but it helps give credibility to Masa among his friends. Not all of these are Christians, so that is another impact. They received a brochure, but this time we were able to share a testimony (Alex--goalkeeper). As friends of Masa, he can follow up with whatever questions they may have
Evening Clinic: This was a clinic for the SSIC, Seahorse Soccer International Club, which is the school/club that Masa runs as a business. The campers are his students. It has been running since 2010. While it teaches soccer skills, the parents understand that it is a Christian organization and accept that Christ can be taught through their activities. As such, not only do we pass out the brochure, but we were able to share a testimony (David). They have brought students (& parents) on a tour to the U.S. in addition to our working with them in Japan. Masa received a lot of positive feedback from the parents (you can see from the pictures there were a lot who attended the 2 1/2 hour camp. It was quite a venue too. Three small (futsal) courts on the roof of an 8-story building. Masa & Chie are some of the most humble and faithful servants I know. If you feel led to support them, there is a link of this blog page to do so.
Prayer: Please pray for all the hearts that were touched by various forms of the message we were able to communication. Pray also for the team as many are suffering from head colds/coughs. Thank you all for your support. Tomorrow, 15 team members will be attending 1 church, 4 others to a 2nd church, and the rest will stay here at BJ's church. Pray that these times will be a time of mutual encouragement as we get a little taste of heaven in worshipping with other nations.
Pictures (8/10)
Pictures (Complete trip)
Video Montage (8/10)
Secondly, I want to give a big shout-out to Kousei. I was way behind in the blog and had no way of catching up, as yesterday was so busy, but during the afternoon game with Masa's team, after shooting some footage, I had time to work on it. Kousei had purchased a hot spot that he graciously allowed me to use. Without that I would never have caught up. Thank you Kousei!!
Blog-abbreviated version:
It was an early morning as we had to leave about 7:30 and eat breakfast on the bus. It was about a 90 minute ride to the Junior High where we had a clinic with the Junior High kids. We played various games and skills and sang our Bo-te-le-li song. We then took the bus to our next location, and had a Bento lunch in an air conditioned room, followed by the game with Masa's friends. After the game, we went to our last location, ate lunch in the food court (1st floor) and then had the clinic with Masa's school up on the roof (8th floor). After the clinic, it was off to the sento to clean up. By the time all was said and done, we didn't get back until midnight, and then 15 of the players were off to stay at a church overnight and then attend that church in the morning.
Blog-Extended Version
Junior High: The junior high we went to is where Joe Yokota attends (Masa & Chie's son--14). Being a public school, Masa said they probably would not be that open to have the Seahorses come, but having built a relationship (that's what it's all about here in Japan) with the coach and teachers over the last 6 months, it was agreed that having some international experience would be a good thing. While we could not share our testimony, we could share our attitudes and pass out the brochures which has a plan of salvation on the back in Japanese. Through building these relationships, maybe a future year will allow a testimony, or maybe kids/parents will just be curious as to who we are.
Masa's team: This game was more of just a friendly match, but it helps give credibility to Masa among his friends. Not all of these are Christians, so that is another impact. They received a brochure, but this time we were able to share a testimony (Alex--goalkeeper). As friends of Masa, he can follow up with whatever questions they may have
Evening Clinic: This was a clinic for the SSIC, Seahorse Soccer International Club, which is the school/club that Masa runs as a business. The campers are his students. It has been running since 2010. While it teaches soccer skills, the parents understand that it is a Christian organization and accept that Christ can be taught through their activities. As such, not only do we pass out the brochure, but we were able to share a testimony (David). They have brought students (& parents) on a tour to the U.S. in addition to our working with them in Japan. Masa received a lot of positive feedback from the parents (you can see from the pictures there were a lot who attended the 2 1/2 hour camp. It was quite a venue too. Three small (futsal) courts on the roof of an 8-story building. Masa & Chie are some of the most humble and faithful servants I know. If you feel led to support them, there is a link of this blog page to do so.
Prayer: Please pray for all the hearts that were touched by various forms of the message we were able to communication. Pray also for the team as many are suffering from head colds/coughs. Thank you all for your support. Tomorrow, 15 team members will be attending 1 church, 4 others to a 2nd church, and the rest will stay here at BJ's church. Pray that these times will be a time of mutual encouragement as we get a little taste of heaven in worshipping with other nations.
Pictures (8/10)
Pictures (Complete trip)
Video Montage (8/10)
Friday, August 9, 2019
Day 5, August 9, Slow morning, Game with Kindai University
Praise God today was a slow start. Breakfast was postponed until 9am which gave everyone much needed rest. After breakfast, there was time for team devotional from "My Utmost for His Highest", focusing on 1 Cor 1:26-31 and Luke 18:31. Time in groups of 3 and then as a whole group. It was a great way to start the day. We left at 12:30 for lunch and it took about an hour to get there. At lunch, Paul, BJ & Todd found a number of ways to share with various people in the restaurant by just engaging in conversation and sharing the team brochure (see pictures). Besides the pictures, it tells about the Seahorses on the back and has the plan of salvation in Japanese, so we pray that this interest will get them to read it. The brochure also identifies how to get in touch with the Seahorses should they so desire. After lunch we left around 3 for the game against Kindai University. They are a large school and actually have four teams (A, B, C & D level). We played the B team for 3 30 minute periods and won the game 3-2. Four years ago they beat us. We shared our "Bo-te-le-li" cheer with them and then Jake did his testimony with Kousei translating. Paul invited their team to come to the U.S. sometime (like the SSU team has). Pray for the contacts made today, both formal and informal, and that those who had the team brochure shared with them (including everyone on the team we played and their managers) will take the time to read the plan of salvation and connect it with the testimony that Jake shared. After the men showered at the field, it was off to the Ramen house for dinner. It was great food, super fast, and they had the experience of sitting on the floor.
Tomorrow is a super busy day, as we have something in the morning, afternoon and evening.
It was so late today, and there is no time tomorrow to complete this blog. So, the written blog is complete. The pictures for today is complete, but only a few of the first pictures have descriptions, and the video montage is not complete. I will let you know when it is complete, but at least you have something.
Pictures (Today, 8/9)
Pictures (Complete)
Video Montage (8/9)
Sumo (post-game)
Bo-te-le-li (Biola)
Bo-te-le-li (with Kindai)
Kindai Game Highlights
Sumo (post-game)
Bo-te-le-li (Biola)
Bo-te-le-li (with Kindai)
Kindai Game Highlights
Thursday, August 8, 2019
Days 3 & 4, Travel, 8-7/8
No one got much sleep last night, but everyone was one time
to the airport. No problems
checking in. The plane configuration to San
Francisco (3/3) was smaller than the one we took to Japan (3/3/3). There was fog in SF so we had to wait
on the tarmac for at least a half hour.
Despite that, we were early to SF.
The flight was very smooth and an excellent landing. The flight from SF to Osaka was one of the smoothest flights I have ever been on and the landing was excellent. We were met at the airport by Pastor BJ and other volunteers who took us to BJ's church in Osaka. It was about an hour bus ride. There was a quick set up at church, a brief (abridged) version of the orientation, then off to a food court for dinner and a sento to bathe (there is only 1 shower at the church, so to get 30 players through would take too long. A sento is a Japanese bath house. Read about it here. After sento, there was no evening meeting as we are all exhausted.
Pictures (Today (8-7/8)
Tuesday, August 6, 2019
Days 1 & 2, Orientation, August 5 & 6
First, we want to thank all of you for supporting us on this trip, both in prayer and financially. We hope that as you follow this blog it will help you to not only appreciate what your tour member is doing and learn about the Japanese culture, but that it will spur you to prayer for us as we minister in Japan.
Just some notes about the blog. If the blog gets completed before I go to bed, then it will be available in the U.S. sometime between 8-10am. If I don't complete it until the morning, then it will be available sometime between 2-4pm. Each day there will be pictures to view with a link. There will be one link for the pictures for the entire trip, or if you just want to look at that day's pictures, there will be a link for that. While the pictures may be self-explanatory, if you want to see the description, select the picture, then select the little icon of an "i" and you will see the picture information with the description.
Well, enough business. As you read this, we covet your prayers (as time is not important to God) for several players who are waiting on passport/visa/other issue to know whether or not they will even be able to go. The next blog will let you know what the outcome is. This group is a great group with a lot of energy. It has been evident in our sessions. Monday was filled with cultural orientation, getting to know each other, drills, dinner, and more cultural orientation. After dinner in the Caf, we had more orientation and then passed out equipment (there was a LOT of it). Tuesday started with breakfast at the Caf, a morning workout and a discussion of our schedule for our time in Japan. We also discussed skits and songs we will do as they provide opportunities, in a fun way, to be able to share Christ.
After lunch at the Caf, Paul led a discussion about how relationship is so important in Japan with several examples. We then had to pick a song to sing. Since we deal with a lot of kids, we picked the kids song "Hip Hip Hooray Hippopotamus" (you can see the previous version in songs and skits--2010) The key is that God's fingerprints are everywhere which gives us an "in" to talk about how they can see the "God of the Bible" in their everyday lives. The serious skit (one with a gospel message) the men chose is David & Goliath. The message being what are the "giants" in their lives that they don't think they can overcome (sadness, sickness, greed, price, bullying, loneliness, etc). Then we picked the funny skit. This works great as an icebreaker and shows that we can have a lot of fun. The skit we picked was "Little Nemo" and also can be seen in the "Songs & Skits" tab on the blog from 1999.
After picking the songs & skits, there was time spent on testimony workshop. Most tour members will have a chance to give their testimony. The workshop consisted of helping craft a testimony for the Japanese. Things to consider are avoiding "Christianese" (terms unique to Christians/Americans); How to refer to God ("God of the Bible") as they have many gods; How to explain sin ("the wrong things we do") as they do not have a concept for sin; and How to keep the testimony short enough because with translation, every testimony ends up twice as long as written. After testimony time there was about a 2 hour break followed by a scrimmage and then the send-off dinner. We did have one answer to prayer. One of the players who we thought might not be able to go found out at 4pm that everything was a go! Continue to pray for some others still having passport/transcript issues.
There will not be another entry for a couple days as we are traveling and not a lot will be happening.
Pictures Daily (8/5-6)
Pictures Complete (today's link has the same pictures)
Video Montage
Just some notes about the blog. If the blog gets completed before I go to bed, then it will be available in the U.S. sometime between 8-10am. If I don't complete it until the morning, then it will be available sometime between 2-4pm. Each day there will be pictures to view with a link. There will be one link for the pictures for the entire trip, or if you just want to look at that day's pictures, there will be a link for that. While the pictures may be self-explanatory, if you want to see the description, select the picture, then select the little icon of an "i" and you will see the picture information with the description.
Well, enough business. As you read this, we covet your prayers (as time is not important to God) for several players who are waiting on passport/visa/other issue to know whether or not they will even be able to go. The next blog will let you know what the outcome is. This group is a great group with a lot of energy. It has been evident in our sessions. Monday was filled with cultural orientation, getting to know each other, drills, dinner, and more cultural orientation. After dinner in the Caf, we had more orientation and then passed out equipment (there was a LOT of it). Tuesday started with breakfast at the Caf, a morning workout and a discussion of our schedule for our time in Japan. We also discussed skits and songs we will do as they provide opportunities, in a fun way, to be able to share Christ.
After lunch at the Caf, Paul led a discussion about how relationship is so important in Japan with several examples. We then had to pick a song to sing. Since we deal with a lot of kids, we picked the kids song "Hip Hip Hooray Hippopotamus" (you can see the previous version in songs and skits--2010) The key is that God's fingerprints are everywhere which gives us an "in" to talk about how they can see the "God of the Bible" in their everyday lives. The serious skit (one with a gospel message) the men chose is David & Goliath. The message being what are the "giants" in their lives that they don't think they can overcome (sadness, sickness, greed, price, bullying, loneliness, etc). Then we picked the funny skit. This works great as an icebreaker and shows that we can have a lot of fun. The skit we picked was "Little Nemo" and also can be seen in the "Songs & Skits" tab on the blog from 1999.
After picking the songs & skits, there was time spent on testimony workshop. Most tour members will have a chance to give their testimony. The workshop consisted of helping craft a testimony for the Japanese. Things to consider are avoiding "Christianese" (terms unique to Christians/Americans); How to refer to God ("God of the Bible") as they have many gods; How to explain sin ("the wrong things we do") as they do not have a concept for sin; and How to keep the testimony short enough because with translation, every testimony ends up twice as long as written. After testimony time there was about a 2 hour break followed by a scrimmage and then the send-off dinner. We did have one answer to prayer. One of the players who we thought might not be able to go found out at 4pm that everything was a go! Continue to pray for some others still having passport/transcript issues.
There will not be another entry for a couple days as we are traveling and not a lot will be happening.
Pictures Daily (8/5-6)
Pictures Complete (today's link has the same pictures)
Video Montage
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