News & Stories

Japan Alliance Church Hosts International Festival

September 9, 2008

“In a community dotted with shrines and temples, Kawaguchi Christ Church desires to be a lighthouse in its community,” said Don and Hazel Schaeffer, Alliance missionaries to Japan. Recently, about 250 people came through the church doors to attend its third annual International Food Festival. “Some were English students and friends of church people, but most were [neighborhood residents] who stepped into the church for the first time,” said Don and Hazel. “One woman asked if it was okay to come in even though she was not a Christian!” Each visitor received a brochure about the church as well as a tract about God’s love, written by a paraplegic who is a renowned Christian artist.  
 
“Many hours went into food preparation and baking as well as tagging clothing and household items that were sold,” said the Schaeffers. “Visitors went home happy with their purchases!” As the day began, church members prayed for God’s blessing on the outreach, asking that His love would shine through them to those who attended. “We thank God for the many church women who served and worked so well together. Wearing their Kawaguchi Church tee-shirts, they were truly a testimony with their enthusiasm and joy. They are already talking about next year’s festival! 
 
“Thank you for praying. As we try to make a difference here, your prayers are having an impact on God’s work in Japan and in Kawaguchi where we serve.”