Hiragishi on Christmas Day

This year Christmas Day fell on a Sunday. For many Japanese people Christmas means going on a date (for young couples) or having time with family on the 24th. Kentucky Fried Chicken is popular as is Christmas cake (quite different to the equivalent in the UK). Some though are drawn to churches at this time and candelit services on Christmas Eve are popular. We decided not to hold something like that here in Hiragishi but had a low-key service followed by a time of eating some traditional Christmas goodies and playing a few games. We moved our usual worship time from the afternoon to the morning and once again were able to use the building we have rented several times before. While we have many people coming along to events we have held, we were not sure how it would be for a worship service as many people we know seem to not be at that point yet. However it was encouraging that a number of people came along, some for the first time. It was a special joy to see several of the boys' football club friends come - certainly the first time they have ever been in a worship service. How Chuang gave an excellent short message. We sang some well-known carols. Sambi did a great children's talk with clever props. Afterwards a few more friends came with their children for the food and games time. It was a happy time and once again an opportunity to share the love of Jesus with those who were there. Afterwards one young lady who was there for the first time said she would like to study the Bible. We are taking small steps forward and move expectantly into another year to build more on the foundation which has been laid. This Sunday sees us start the New Year with a worship service and a time of sharing and praying together. But more about that in a future blog.