Dear Friends,

We still have 2 months left in the US before we return to Japan, but that time will go fast.Tomoko and I have just been reflecting a little on all the churches we have visited, the old friends we met, and the new friends we have made, and we give thanks for each one.Sometimes we have felt a little like we were rushing from one place to another, but always we have been blessed, and we are glad that we have been at each church, camp or ABW rally.

As were written in our last note, the Banno family from our church in Japan, was able to come and visit us in April.We had a wonderful time of fellowship with them. We took them up to Sequoia National Park to see the big trees. We want to thank my sister Karol and her family for hosting them during their visit with us.Before they left, they told us they were also greatly encouraged by their time of worship with the First Baptist Church of Visalia, CA.I praise God that our Christian family is larger than we often ever imagine it to be.His kingdom is coming on earth.

A couple of family notes
Alisen broke her arm in April, but already has the cast off.Andy and Ali are both playing baseball, and Ami is running track, and singing in the school choir.We have asked you to pray for our family, and again we give thanks for those prayers.The Lord has blessed us this year.

A note about the Nishi Okamoto Church in Kobe, Japan
Mrs. Tsutusi passed away a couple of weeks ago.She was one of the original members of the church.Before there was a church building, a weekly prayer meeting/Bible study was held in her home for a time.She has been in a retirement home for several years, but she will be greatly missed by the members of Nishi Okamoto Church.

We again ask for your prayers for the Nishi Okamoto Church and for our family as we begin to plan for our return to Japan.We trust that the Lord will continue to bless our ministry together.

Grace and Peace,

John Armagost