News Annual Camping Trip/Baptism

July 15th, 2006

Hokkaido, Japan— About 30 members of the Miharashidai FWB Chapel in Hokkaido, Japan, participated in the annual church camping trip July 15-17. They enjoyed a Hokkaido-style barbeque and spontaneous worship Saturday evening.

A Sunday morning pancake breakfast was followed by an outdoor worship service. Lake Toya served as a baptismal pool on Sunday afternoon. Mika, a young career lady, and Fuma, a junior high boy who grew up in the church, gave their testimonies. After a time of singing, congregants rejoiced together as these two believers made bold profession of faith through baptism.

Mika was first introduced to Christianity through English classes at Miharashidai Chapel. Over the last few years she studied the Bible with several missionaries, and came to trust Christ as her Savior many months ago. She deeply wanted to be baptized last year. However, when she shared her desire with her parents, they were extremely opposed to the idea. She asked church members to pray for her and her family. This past spring she once again raised the topic of baptism with her parents. This time, they were supportive and agreed.

A church member who was baptized at the same location five years ago planned the retreat.