Dear Friends,

Spring is coming, the peach and plum trees have bloomed, and soon it will be time for the cherry blossoms. Easter, resurrection, the promise of new life, it is a wonderful time of year to see the grace of our Lord in many different ways.

We promised in our last newsletter some good news. Here it is. Mr. Soichi Fujioka, a member of the Nishi Okamoto Church, has answered the call of God to enter seminary in preparation for ministry. It is exciting news for our church, and the Baptist churches of Japan, because we need more pastors. But it also feels hard for the Nishi Okamoto Church, as Mr. Fujioka has been a leader in many areas of the ministry here. We cried tears of joy and sadness when he shared this news to the pastors, then to the board, and then again as he shared his testimony with the church. And before he leaves in April to begin his studies, there will be more tears.

The testimony of his faith and character do not just come from the church. One of the parents whose child has come to our Summer Bible Club once said, "Nishi Okamoto Church really is special, because here I could meet a person like Mr. Fujioka." I am not sure if it is his shaved head, or his engaging smile and warm laugh, but people, especially young people are drawn to him. We trust the Lord will bless him, and use him in mighty ways.

Pray:

• Pray for Mr. Soichi Fujioka, who will be moving to Yokohama to begin studies in April, for the Lord to bless him and use him as he prepares for ministry.
• Pray for the Nishi Okamoto Christ Church, as they send one of their leaders to a new mission. Give thanks for the witness that has led to this calling.
• Pray for the churches in Japan, especially the churches of the Japan Baptist Union. Pray for more people to hear the calling of the Lord. Pray that the church will be strengthened in faith and witness.

As always, we give thanks for your prayers and your support.

Grace and Peace,

John and Tomoko Armagost

International Ministries missionaries in Japan