Time away

June is often Conference month for OMF. This time we have the pleasure of attending the two OMF Conferences in the different regions. At the moment we are in the beautiful surroundings of Karuizawa, a mountain retreat in Nagano prefecture for what is called the East Japan Conference. Missionaries working in Aomori, Sendai and the Greater Tokyo area have gathered for their Annual Conference. As we will take over the Field leadership role from the later part of next year, we thought it would be good to come and spend time with folks here, getting to know a little better both the people and the work in which they are involved. We have been able to come without our boys thanks to wonderful co-workers who offered to look after them for these few days. The venue is in itself an oasis - surrounded by tall trees, green everywhere, a quaint town nearby. Just wakening up in the morning and being able to go for a walk in the sunlight with birds singing is so refreshing. We have been challenged by Bible messages, stimulated by hearing stories of things going on, encouraged in small group times and just so thankful for our OMF colleagues, many of whom have had to cope with many stressful situations since the events of 11th March. It is indeed a joy to be part of OMF and we give thanks to God for this opportunity to be away, for rich fellowship times (oh and great food too!)