September Prayer Notes

Dear Friends,

Woody recently read 2 Corinthians 5:14-21 with the Cooking Club.  He explained simply about how the world and we men were cut off from God; our sins separate us from Him, necessitating our reconciliation with Him. That reconciliation occurs as our sins and responsibility for them  (guilt) are transferred to Jesus, whose righteousness is transferred to his account.  "He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him."  What a comfort and blessed proclamation!

2 Cor. 5 message of Reconciliation with God

We thank the Lord for all of you who have prayed faithfully for God's blessing on the labors of the Japan Mission and have supported this work financially since 2005.  The Committee for the Support of the Japan Mission has sent out two letters this year and asked us to include these links for those of you who might be interested but have not received them.  This letter was sent in January:  https://opcjapan.com/s/2026-Overview-Letter-OPCJM.pdf   and this one was sent out in August:  https://opcjapan.com/s/2026-Mid-Year-Update-Letter.pdf .

Praise items

1.      Two elderly neighbors joined the Cooking Club this month for the first time.  After Mrs. Takahashi’s home had been washed away in the 2011 tsunami, she had attended Nozomi activities for a time.  She was very excited to return to Nozomi after many years, and we give thanks she heard the Bible message on reconciliation with God. Both women plan to attend Friends’ Lunch where the main activities are a Bible message and singing hymns. 

L. to R. Mrs. Ono with Mrs. Takahashi and Mrs. Suzuki

2.      For visitors to worship: Mrs. Isago who has attended worship several times this summer and Mrs. Yoshino who came recently.  Caring for their elderly husbands makes it difficult to attend.  Mr. Konno also continues to attend worship and, very recently, Bible study.  Pray God will give them a clear understanding of the gospel and grant faith to become disciples of Jesus.  

Worship with Mrs. Yoshino and Mr. Inomata

3.      For a Singapore team from Solomon’s Porch Church who arrive on Sept.16.  This is their 6th time visiting Yamamoto since 2016, and people here are really looking forward to it.  They will participate in Friends’ Lunch, host the Friday café, a community barbecue on Saturday, and hold a Kids’ Carnival on Monday at the nearby Hidamari Hall, a large community center. Sunday, Ruling Elder Charles Goh will give the message, and we will have lunch together afterward.  They have visited 2 years working in Noto Peninsula after the 2024 devastating earthquake and 37 foot tsunami there.   Please pray God will bless each conversation, event, and our worship together.  Pray for lots of kids to come to the carnival on Monday to connect them to Nozomi Center.                                                                                                             

 Continued Prayer Items

4. For fruit from weekly visitation and regular meetings:  Worship, Cafe, English classes, Friends' Lunch, Cooking Club.  We are thankful for several visits we had with families from English classes. Please pray for their salvation!  

5. Please pray for Murray and Tsuruko Uomoto as they have begun a two month home service visiting churches across the U.S.  Please pray for good health, safe travel, and blessed fellowship with the saints as they share about the Lord's work at Megumi Chapel.  

6. For 4 new missionaries to come to Japan over the next two years, and for missionary associates to assist in the work.  We praise God we received an application for Missionary Associate.  Pray that the Lord will work out the details for service and support once the application has been approved.  We pray also for a Japanese minister with whom we can work.  

7. Please do remember the fields here in Japan.  In the winter and early spring, one sees barren rice fields (see photo): one after another, brown and lifeless.  But the farmer sees them as the rich potential for planting a great harvest. Through the months of soil preparation, planting, and weeding, he toils patiently. The field in photo #5 shows a bounty soon to be picked.  Imagine if there were no farmers to plant that seed and none to harvest the bounty. Japan is in great need of both the sowers and reapers of God’s Word. With over 122.5 million people, Japan will remain a land nearly devoid of knowing their Creator and His Son, their Savior. Most have never heard the gospel. Evangelical Christians are estimated to be less than 1% of the nation. The average pastor is over the age of 60, and many pastor more than 1 congregation.  Pastors serving into their 80’s are on the rise since there are too few replacements.  Please pray for God to raise up a new generation of faithful missionaries and Japanese pastors to plant God’s Word and pray for the Holy Spirit to build the Kingdom of Christ through His church! 

Barren rice fields

Field Ready for Harvest

Praising God for His merciful love for His people and for sending our Savior Jesus to redeem us that we might live to God's glory together,

Woody and Laurie Lauer       OPC Japan Mission, Yamamoto, Japan

For additional photos and updates, please view the Facebook page of Nozomi Center 

Offerings can be given through the www.opcjapan.com website or directly to the Committee for the Support of the Japan Mission :

*Please make checks to *"Emmaus OPC - Japan Mission"* and send them to the following address:

Emmaus OPC- Japan Mission

*c/o Gary Wood, Treasurer

1727 N.Grandview Lane #319

Bismarck, ND 58503

Prayer Notes, August, 2026 Praising God for His faithful answers to prayer

Dear Friends,

We were blessed to work together with an OPC team from Washington and Arizona churches in July.  To their report below, we would add our praise to the Lord as He continues to bring forth fruit:

1. Over the past several months, a new visitor, Mr. Konno attended a number of events including worship services a few times and a Bible study.  His mother, whom we met at Friday cafe recently, is hospitalized after a stroke and paralyzed on one side.  Woody visited her last week with Mr. Konno and will go again tomorrow after worship.  Please pray the Lord will give them understanding of the Scriptures and saving faith to believe in Jesus.  

2. God has been blessing our visits with neighbors. We are thankful for several opportunities to share the gospel and pray God will use this to draw them to Himself.  We pray that Scripture will shed the light of truth into their dark world. Thank you for praying for these visits.  God is answering indeed!

Please continue to pray:

1. For God to use His Word to bring eternal fruit in those who attend our regular activities: worship, Bible study, English classes, Friday cafe, Friends' Lunch, and Cooking Club.

2. God will raise up new missionaries and missionary associates.  Pray for wisdom and guidance for those who are preparing to come, and pray that God will provide for all their needs.

Team Japan 2026 from r to l: Abigail Szuba, Clara Chelpka, Annetta Vanderhoff, a sleeping Patocs, Jean-Paul Muresan, Anneliese Patocs, Abraham Vanderhoff, Ashleigh Schexnayder, Christian Schexnayder, Alexander Patocs. 

by Alexander Patocs Providence OPC, Scottsdale, Arizona

From July 17–30, a team from Washington and Arizona had the privilege of serving alongside the missionaries and believers in Japan. Before the trip, we asked for prayers for spiritual revival, for open hearts to receive the gospel, for more laborers to be raised up, and for the Lord to bless every aspect of the ministry. We are grateful to report that God faithfully answered those prayers in many ways. 

The Lord watched over our travels from beginning to end. Lost luggage was recovered, complex train stations were successfully navigated, and the entire team arrived safely. As we adjusted to jet lag, God gave us strength for a full schedule and encouraged us through the fellowship of the saints in Miyagi. 

One of our greatest encouragements came on the Lord's Day. Some believers and seekers who had been absent from worship because of family pressure, health concerns, and other difficulties returned to church. It was a joy to worship alongside them, share a meal together, and pray that they will continue gathering with God's people.

Throughout the trip, the Lord opened many opportunities to build relationships through community outreach. Craft events, English classes, music cafés, a “Friends’ Lunch”, children's programs, and everyday conversations created natural opportunities to invite people to church and speak about Christ. We were especially encouraged by the number of repeat visitors we met during the two weeks. Relationships that began with simple conversations often ended with a heartfelt invitation: "Would you come to church?" 

God also blessed our evangelism efforts. The team distributed all 2,000 gospel tracts throughout the surrounding neighborhoods, with favorable weather that allowed us to complete this goal. Along the way, we had many meaningful conversations and prayed that each tract would bear lasting fruit in the lives of those who received it.

Our ministry also included practical acts of service that demonstrated Christ's love. We helped care for an elderly women's property, cleaned the Nozomi Center, and assisted the missionaries in preparations for ministry. These simple acts opened doors for conversation and strengthened relationships within the community.

 Several outreach events were highlights of the trip. The Music Café brought people together over coffee, tea, cake, and hymns, creating opportunities for gospel conversations. The Arizona Festival reconnected many people who had not visited the center for months or even years. This encouraged the missionaries that relationships could be renewed and lead to deeper spiritual conversations. During each English class, Scripture was read and explained, ensuring that participants heard God's Word.

Near the end of the trip, we hosted a kids' festival built around the theme, “Journey to God.” Through interactive stations, children learned about God's Word, His love, forgiveness through Christ, saving faith, prayer, serving others, sharing the gospel, and following Jesus. It was a wonderful opportunity to introduce young hearts to the hope found in Christ.

 Looking back, we are reminded that every conversation, invitation, tract distributed, and relationship formed was an answer to the prayers of God's people. We thank the Lord for His faithful provision, for strengthening the missionaries serving in Japan, and for allowing our team to participate in His work. While much gospel work remains, we returned home encouraged that God continues to build His church in Japan.

 Thank you for praying with us. If you would like to stay connected, subscribe to the newsletter, give online, and prayerfully consider joining next year's Japan mission team. If you want to serve more long term as a missionary associate (young and old, couples and families) or a missionary (if a pastor), the team would love to be contacted.

Vacation Bible School:  Journey to God 

  Searching the Bible for the answers

Three craft stations: art evoked heartfelt discussion about hardships

The Patocs family delivering tracts

Friends' Lunch with Bible message

May all glory be given to God in whom we live and move and have our being!

Woody and Laurie Lauer OPC Japan Mission, Yamamoto, Japan

For additional photos and updates, please view the Facebook page of Nozomi Center.

Prayer Notes, July, 2026

Dear Friends,

In Ephesians 3:16-21, Paul prays for the saints that God would strengthen them, “with might through His Spirit in the inner man, 17 that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height... 19 to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. 20 Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, 21 to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus.  As God calls us to faith, He also works in us by His mighty Spirit to dwell with Him, rooted in His love and living in His presence.  How incomprehensible it is that the eternal God who is love desires to have fellowship with those who were His enemies (Jer.31:31-34).  Would you pray this same prayer for the Yamamoto Nozomi (Hope) Church, Sendai Megumi (Grace) Church,  Yamagata Presbyterian Church, and the churches scattered throughout Tohoku (the Northeast)?  How powerful the spread of the gospel might be if we were each living out this prayer!

Please give thanks with us:

1. For the labors of the KCC team from Hawaii.  Through their various activities, new visitors came to Nozomi and helped break the ice, introducing them to us.  Jeannie the hair stylist was able to cut hair whenever people showed up, providing good conversation and strengthening ties within the community. 

Jeannie and her assistant hair stylists

 Twelve gathered to make Hawaiian Lokomoko and pickles and to read the Bible together. 

Full House at Cooking Club

The hula was enjoyed by many, including the kids' English class and one man who attends with his granddaughter.  In addition to the English classes, the Saturday barbecue and hula performance gathered over 40 people.  Three visitors including a first time visitor attended worship Sunday morning, and Pastor Lee was able to have extensive conversation with each of them.  Give thanks that one lady has returned to worship more regularly.  Their final performance on Monday at a residential home for the handicapped was warmly received.  The hula teacher explained how each dance related to their faith in Christ.  These dear people are isolated and were deeply moved by the love expressed by the team for them. Pray that the Lord would bring continued fruit from all their labors and prayers.  We are thankful for the 5 high school students, the 3 restaurant owners, and the many professionals all who came to pray and serve with all their heart.

Barbecue and Hula Event

Hula at Seiwaen

2. At a recent home visit with Mr. and Mrs. Y.,  Woody read John 11:1-45 to them.  Mrs. Y. enjoys reading the Bible. After previous readings of Scripture to these tsunami survivors, Mr. Y. politely and regularly explained his commitment to Buddhism.  This time, after Woody prayed for them, Mr. Y. reached for their large print Bible and began searching for the passage!  Thank you for praying for them and please continue.

Mr. and Mrs. Y at home

3. For Mr. T who attends several activities regularly hearing the Bible. While visiting his home recently, he asked many questions about Christianity.  Pray that he will understand God's Word and come to worship.

4. Two women attending the adult English class have begun taking notes during the Bible message.  May God grant both Mrs. M and Mrs. S understanding and faith in Jesus.

5. Thanks to those who pray for us and wrote encouraging words recently. 

Please pray for these things:

1. The OPC team from Scottsdale, Arizona who will be working at Nozomi July 18-31.  May the Lord prepare their hearts to labor with joy in Christ and love the people they meet.  They plan to help with distribution of 3,000 tracts in Yamamoto door to door throughout their stay as well as weeding in the area for those who are weaker.  Tuesday, 7/21, they will be teaching 3 crafts to neighbors.  In addition to providing games at Friends' Lunch and music at Friday cafe, they will be hosting an Arizona Festival with lunch and a presentation about Arizona.  They will also be leading our one day VBS which we call Kids' Festival.  Please pray the Lord will bless His Word and the outpouring of His love through them to all visitors.  

2. That the seeds of God's Word which have been planted over the years will bear much fruit in the hearts of the hearers.  That these people will be freed from the evil bonds of false religion.

3. For continued opportunities to share the gospel at cafe.  Thanks for Mr. A. studying Confessing Christ with Woody and for Mrs. O who regularly joins in conversation about the Bible.

Cafe Bible Time

4. For new missionaries and missionary associates.  We thank God for some inquiries and pray the Lord will establish the work here with their help.

5. For committed prayer warriors for this work.  For new churches and individuals to give regular contributions to the OPC work in Japan as we look forward to preparing to call new missionaries.

6. For Mr. and Mrs. Paul Lauer as Paul's wife, Sara, gives birth to their first child soon and as Paul hopes to complete licensure exams in October and then seek a call to return to Japan.

May all glory be given to God in whom we live and move and have our being!

Woody and Laurie Lauer       OPC Japan Mission, Yamamoto, Japan

For additional photos and updates, please view the Facebook page of Nozomi Center 

Prayer Notes, June, 2026

Dear Friends,

When friends part company whether due to disagreement, job changes and moving, or death, we experience sorrow.  So it is when congregations lose members and regular attenders.  Since the opening of Nozomi Chapel ten years ago, God truly blessed us to have people attending, rare for a small Japanese farming community steeped in Buddhism and Shinto.  At different times, twenty-four people were attending worship regularly, some from remarkably differing and conflicting backgrounds led to worship at Nozomi for months, some for several years. Of those, ten have moved away, three died, three left due to personal conflict with others, two stopped coming for health reasons, one rejected Christ, and two remain friendly, but don't attend.  Of the three who remain, each had professed faith in Christ before attending Nozomi.  Only one man is committed to coming.  The other two have weak views of the Bible and the Church, attending at each one's desire.  People are not numbers: they are God's creatures He is calling to faith and obedience, to know and to love Him above all else and to love His sheep and grow together with them.  God's mercy and lovingkindness have blessed a people living in darkness with the hearing of the gospel of Jesus Christ, a treasure that most in Japan don't enjoy.  We grieve that the building isn't filled with those who love Jesus and praise His name.  We grieve for those who have left due to conflict and for those who reject Christ. We remain thankful for the hearts which were changed by His Spirit and the preaching of God's Word.  We pray for continuing fruit.  We were reminded by our own children of congregations we have known who, though small in number, persevered for more than 20 years (one without a pastor at the time) before they began to grow.  God reigns sovereign over all His building of the Kingdom of Christ.  

Please pray that, together with our three attendees, God will humble us and cause us to rely wholly upon His grace to abide in Jesus' love and His Word, to grow together into a mature man in Christ, and to shine forth His light into this pagan community.  We rejoice with Paul's exhortation: "Preach the Word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction."  As Pastor Tomii said when Woody was installed here, "Be prepared to stay at least for 20 years!"  This is Tohoku where churches take 30 or more years to be established, all in God's good timing. 

Give thanks with us:

1. For Greg Hager's concerts, 5 of which were gatherings in Yamamoto in addition to 4 private concert/home visits and then, 4 more in churches closer to Sendai!  In five days, Greg tirelessly and joyfully introduced Jesus to the people here through songs and sharing Christ.  At the close of each concert, he played a song he wrote for the Japanese, "I'll Come Back."  Holding back tears this time at Nozomi, Greg told the people that the reason he has come six times to Japan is his desire to share his most precious possessions with them: his music and knowing Jesus, the one true God.  They clearly understood his message.  Pray that God will bring these people to be Jesus' disciples.  We thank God for Greg, his labors, and the opportunity to join in spreading the gospel with other churches in southern Miyagi prefecture.

2nd Nozomi Concert

Greg Hager at Home for Handicapped

2. For the J-PARC (Japan Pres.and Reformed Churches) conference held in Kobe, May 5-6.  Thankful to the R.P. churches for organizing this event and for cooperating in future joint publication of much-needed Reformed books. We are preparing Berkhof's Introduction to Systematic Theology and contemplating translation and publication of Robertson's The Final Word.

J-PARC conference with presentations by various pastors.jpg

3. For regular evangelistic activities:  monthly Cooking Club and Friends' Lunch; weekly cafe, and English classes. We are thankful that the Lord continues to add new people.  Give thanks for each of these opportunities to tell people about Jesus.  After a Cooking Club message on John 14:1-6, Mrs. H. said she was happy to understand this central truth about Christianity for the first time.   May God bring these people to know Him and join in worship. 

April, 2026 Friends' Lunch Bible message followed by concert

4. For the Kobe Reformed Theological Hall where Woody teaches O.T. and N.T. courses.  Please pray God will raise up a new generation of faithful, godly preachers and elders.  

KTH O.T. Canonics class, May, 2026

5. For Mr. A with whom Woody is studying our mission-published Confessing Christ.

6. For Mr. and Mrs. Y. She shows real interest in the gospel.  He is essentially an invalid and deeply committed to Buddhism. Pray the Lord will change his heart.

Please pray with us:

1. For the 14 member KCC team (Korean Christian Church) from Hawaii as they are en route to begin serving here Tuesday, June 9.  Pray for good outreach into the community and for God's Word to take root in the people.  They will be teaching hula classes (3 days), offering a hair salon (2 days), teaching a Hawaiian cooking class and a Lei bracelet-making craft, preparing a barbecue for the community, doing a Saturday hula performance, teaching the teen's classes about Hawaiian culture, joining in Sunday worship, and finally on Monday, doing a hula performance for a residential home for handicapped.  We are thankful for their love for the people here and their many months of preparation.  Pray that God will bless the team members in their faith and labors.  

2. For more regular home visitation to reinforce the Bible messages they have heard.  

3. For new missionaries and missionary associates.  We thank God for some inquiries and pray the Lord will establish the work here with their help.

4. For committed prayer warriors for this work.  For new churches and individuals to give regular contributions to the OPC work in Japan as we look forward to preparing to call new missionaries.

Thank you to all who support the building of Kingdom of the God in Japan through the OPC Japan Mission,

Woody and Laurie Lauer

OPC Japan Mission, Yamamoto, Japan

Prayer Notes, April 14, 2026 M.A.s needed!

Dear Friends,

From prison, the Lord's Apostle exhorts us, "Rejoice in the Lord" (Phil 3:1) and once more, "Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! (Phi 4:4)." Our trials are minor in comparison to Paul's, but especially in comparison to our Lord's own trial and suffering on the cross. How can we sincerely so rejoice in our relatively small difficulties, sufferings and setbacks? "The sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us" (Rom 8:18).

Please join us in prayer:

1. For 2 regular attendees, Mrs. M and Miss I, and 1 member, Mr. C, who have stopped coming to weekly worship.  Only Miss I is attending a different church (her former one). 

2. That the Lord will lead either 2 men, 2 women, or 1 married couple to join the OPC Japan Mission as missionary associates (M.A.s), primarily to help at Nozomi Chapel here in Yamamoto Town, an hour south of Sendai, in southern Miyagi Prefecture.  Helping staff with regular Nozomi activities and worship are a large part of the work here:  planning, cleaning, cooking, gardening, distribution of monthly flyers, helping with short term mission teams, and developing friendships with neighbors to open doors to share the gospel .  Additionally, the Saturday English class outreach program established by prior M.A,s, most recently Susan Bickett and Sara Lauer, are in need of new teachers.   We are thankful for David Lauer's teaching the afternoon adult and teen classes, standing in the gap as it were until new M.A.s come, despite his very busy work schedule.

Give thanks with us:

3. For the Lord's work in the heart of Mr. A. He lost his wife and son  in the tsunami 15 years ago. He came to Lord's Day worship frequently during the Corona lockdown--when places he usually visited such as the local library were all closed.  Recently at the weekly Friday cafe, Mr. A. and Woody have been reading through Kyuukyokutekiu Shitsumon (Ultimate Questions).  Last Friday, he said, "I believe in Jesus."  After finishing reading Blanchard's tract, we plan to begin working through Calvin K. Cummings Sr.'s Kirisuto wo Kokuhaku Surutameni (Confessing Christ).

4.  For Greg Hager, North Dakota Western and Country musician, who both composes his own Christian music and intermingles the gospel with various songs.  Aside from Corona virus years, Greg has been coming yearly to help us since 2017. Please pray God will bless Greg's concerts and strengthen himthroughout his three and a half week Japan tour.   He is to travel from Tokyo to Sendai this Thursday (4/16) to play for our Friends' Lunch outreach and for an afternoon concert on Friday.  Nineteen people have signed up for the luncheon; almost all are non-Christians.Please pray God will use the Bible message and Greg's music to reach the hearts of the hearers with the gospel.  As to the latter, please pray for the nine new people who attended our March 11 memorial concert on the 15th anniversary of the great tsunami disaster; pray they would return again for this Friday's concert and begin attending worship.  We pray God will fill the building with people He is calling to be His children.  

5. For our upcoming two day conference with officers from the RPCNA Japan Presbytery to be held in Kobe in early May.  Please pray the Lord will bless our fellowship and cause us to strengthen one another to build the Kingdom of Christ here.  Both Rev. Murray Uomoto and Woody will be giving mission-related presentations.

6.  That all seven of our English students who graduated elementary school are continuing on with us and taking the teen classes where they will continue to hear Bible messages.  Pray God will grant faith in Jesus to these teens and their mothers.  

7. For all our former MAs and the blessing of their labors!  Again,please pray for new M.A.s and for new career missionaries.

Cordially in Christ,

Woody and Laurie Lauer

OPC Japan Mission, Yamamoto, Japan

Prayer Notes, Concert Thanks, March 21, 2026

Dear Friends,

All thanks be to our God!  "All nations whom You have made shall come and worship before You, O Lord, and they shall glorify Your name. For You are great and do wondrous deeds, You alone are God."  Psalm 86:9-10

March 11, 2026, 2:46 p.m.  We gathered together with 29 guests fifteen years to the day and time the massive tsunami overwhelmed Yamamoto, spawned by the 9.0 magnitude earthquake (the 4th largest ever recorded in world history).  Everyone in the town was related to or knew at least one or many of the more than 630 residents who died.  Half of the housing in the town was rendered unlivable, a full quarter of the housing was destroyed completely.  Their lives would forever be changed.

1. Just 300 meters down the street from Nozomi Center, the townspeople met at  the Memorial Wall at 2:46 p.m. for a moment of silence and prayer of comfort to those who died fifteen years ago in the 2011 massive earthquake and tsunami.  At 2:46, twenty-six people gathered at Nozomi to pray audibly with us to the Living God.  We began adding this prayer time to our concert poster several years ago.  The first year only six or so came, and others joined later for the three o' clock concert.  Little by little, the number of people coming to pray has been increasing.  It is astounding to consider, people who have yet to put their trust in Jesus are willing to risk what their neighbor's think about them (crucial to Japanese) to come to pray with us instead of to attend the town's pagan ceremony.  God is at work, and we pray that His Word and Spirit will bring these people all to faith in the Lord Jesus.

Excellent music showing forth God’s glory!

2. The excellence of the performance brought glory to God and reinforced the words of the musicians as they testified to the truth of His Word and Jesus' sacrificial death on the cross in the place of sinners. Mr. Takeuchi, the pianist, and Mrs. Tanabe, the flutist, wove the theme of the concert throughout as they introduced music to be played.  Mr. Takeuchi acknowledged that many are still profoundly hurting from the tragedy, and though we cannot answer why the event took place, we do know where to look for help.  The theme he posed in question form, "What is the purpose of man? Why are we here on earth?"  He talked about how important Japanese think it is to see the beauty of things in creation,  to give thanks to and worship those things (sun, moon, stars, plants, animals,etc.). Yet there is one greater to worship, the Creator of all these things, including man.  This God of all power has spoken to us in the Bible and throughout history, calling us to know and worship Him.  Our failure to worship Him is sin in His sight and condemned us to punishment. Out of His great love, He sent His own Son, Jesus Christ, to pay that penalty and die in our place so that we can know Him.

Mr. Takeuchi

Paul Lauer’s message on Luke.

3.  As the concert was coming to a close, Paul Lauer gave a message from Luke 8:22-26, the essence of which follows.  Indeed, we see the many excellent things in creation which sustain our lives: the sun (exuding warmth, light, even Vitamin D), the plants, the animals, the rivers,  the earth itself through which we are physically nourished.  As we view the strength and beauty of the mountains and the mighty ocean, are we not caused to ask, why do these exist?  Who made them?  The Bible teaches us that there is a Creator who made all things which reflect His glory.  He rules over them. He made man and woman also to reflect His glory.

Luke records the story of Jesus, the Son of God, sent to earth to live among men 2000 years ago. It shows the Creator who rules over the earth.  One day He was in a boat, having fallen asleep, with his 12 friends.  A great storm arose, threatening their lives, and when it seemed the boat would sink, they woke Jesus crying for his help. Luke 8:24B records that Jesus rebuked the wind and the waves; all became quiet.  The disciples said, "Who then is this that commands the wind and the waves, and they obey Him?"  The answer is that Jesus is God. God created all things by His Word and by His Word, He continues to sustain and reign over creation.  God came to earth to restore his relationship with man.

In the first few chapters of the Bible, we learn that God made man, male and female, to worship Him and to have a direct relationship personal relationship to Him. But, man decided he could live without God.  Soon the perfect world in which God created man became filled with sin: refusing to worship God and man fighting against man.  The result was great suffering from that time forth.  But, God the Creator, out of His great love, came to earth to call men back to knowing Him personally.  Each of us has sinned against God. Jesus came to pay the penalty for our sin.  He came to call us back to know God and to have fellowship with Him. Paul challenged them to turn from giving thanks to created things to giving thanks to the Creator who wants a relationship with you and wants to heal your lives. Put your trust in Jesus as your Savior.  Pray each one will!

There was much food for thought in these words.  Those who are Shinto and Buddhist have believed that if they are good enough when they die, they will become gods, are faced with the question, "How can we who are dependent on created things become gods?"

4. We are thankful for the many who attended.  Of the 29 guests who came to the concert, between six and ten came for the first time. Some attended who have only come a few times in the past. Others who attend regularly needed this challenge!  We are thankful the Lord brought all these to hear powerful words of life and comfort from the only true God.  Please pray for the message to take deep root in the hearts of the people and for God to grant faith to them.

One woman said to Paul, "I haven't heard the book of Luke for years!"   As a first time visitor to Nozomi, we later found out she had been invited by a friend who does come to Friends' Lunch. Both had attended a Christian high school in Sendai (back in the days when the Bible message was taught more clearly).  Pray the Lord will bring her to worship.

5. The musicians played three hymns familiar to a number of people which we sing at our Friends' Lunch.  "Amazing Grace", "What a Friend we have in Jesus", and "I'd Rather have Jesus." Pray the message brings new meaning to the words of these hymns.

6. Pray for Mr. Oota and his wife. Mr. Oota, the grandson of the Shinto priest, has been attending events for 7 years.  He grew up on the grounds of the local shrine and continues to be active. Often, he shakes his head in disbelief, but always has a pleasant demeanor.  That day, he listened intently.  Pray that God shake the foundation of his thinking and completely change his heart.

7. Pray that many will become convinced it is not enough to be a good person, but they need to know their Creator and seek His forgiveness through Jesus.  

8 . Give thanks to God for a clear message of our only hope in Jesus in this life and into eternity!

Thanks be to our God who created all things and will bring all nations to glorify him,

Woody and Laurie Lauer

Yamamoto, Japan

Prayer Notes, March 2026

Dear Friends,

We praise God for the numerous opportunities the Lord grants in Yamamoto to present the gospel weekly and monthly to the people here.  First, we ask urgently for prayer that the Lord would win the spiritual battle in their hearts by granting faith and repentance to many and that He would raise up army of cheerful disciples to follow Jesus faithfully in rejection of their Buddhist and Shinto roots. 

Thanksgiving:

1.      For the five Lee University student concerts at three churches, one university, and our town hall. Many were challenged to believe a clear gospel presentation.  Pray that those seeds would bear true faith. Thankful for the good cooperation among churches in southern Miyagi prefecture who hosted these concerts.   (read story below)

Lee University concert at our Local Concert hall with translation of songs

2.      For Tomoko Sugawara, our faithful coworker at Nozomi. Pray for the Lord’s blessing and sustaining power for her labors here and at her home church.

Kids Christmas party 2025

3.      For continued increasing attendance at Cooking Club, Friend’s Lunch, and English classes (each with a Bible message) as well as opportunities to support elderly and share the gospel at weekly Café. 

February Cooking Club and Bible message

February Friends’ Lunch games

February Friends’ Lunch Bible message with 22 guests!

4.      Praise God for the baptism of a man who attended worship for three years and many activities of Nozomi in the past.

Petitions:

1.     For God to bless today’s concert at Nozomi and grant living faith in the hearts of the people: the 15th Memorial Concert for the 2011 Great Earthquake and Tsunami.    

2.      For new career missionaries, dedicated to bring the gospel and God’s love to Japan. 

3.      For one-two new missionary associates to help at Nozomi with daily chores, activities, visitation when possible, and English teaching.  With only three staff members, the daily load is taxing, and we struggle to keep up with it all.

4.      For Mrs. Mori's (age 88) faith in Christ to be strengthened through daily Bible reading and prayer.  Her health now prevents her from attending worship, and her family is discouraging further contact with us. We give thanks for the 5 years she attended worship.

5.      For God to bless the faith of a church member who is struggling with depression and has stopped attending.   

6.      That God would daily shape us into humble servants of Christ offering His Word and love in ways clearly comprehensible to those living in darkness to the praise of His glory. 

7.      Please pray for strength and wisdom for Laurie particularly as she seeks to find a balance in life while living with weakened health.  

How important are concerts and special activities to the spread of the gospel? Here is an example. Mr.Takahashi (coworker of our son David) and his wife attended one of the Christmas concerts. They were amazed and pleased with the professional level performance by the Lee University students. He was shocked to learn that in Christianity we believe in a Virgin birth, the death and resurrection of Jesus, a God who created all things, and that all men are sinners. As a result of this concert, the next day, David had an excellent discussion with him and 3 other coworkers who didn’t attend the concert at lunch. Because of his good relationship and deep respect for David, Mr. Takahashi is still open to discussing more about Christianity. This is a normal response to hearing what the Bible teaches. Christians who grow up in the church may not ever consider how astounding the claims of the Bible are in this fallen world. Please pray with us that the Lord will give Mr. and Mr. Takahashi tender hearts to pursue knowing the only true God.  Please pray also for the seeds of the gospel sown today at the 15th Memorial Concert, March 11.  

Thankful for our Sovereign God who calls His own and brings them into the Kingdom of Christ,

Woody and Laurie Lauer

September-October, 2025 Prayer Notes

Dear Friends,

Rom.15:5-9a. "Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus; that with one accord you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Wherefore, accept one another, just as Christ also accepted us to the glory of God. For I say that Christ has become a servant to the circumcision on behalf of the truth of God to confirm the promises given to the fathers,  and for the Gentiles to glorify God for His mercy..."  How incomprehensible it is that Immanuel became a servant to His people to save and sanctify us.  This is the hope we pray the people of Yamamoto will come to know.

In September, the Lord sent two gifted and energetic servants, Isaiah and Calli English, to visit for three weeks.  Within two days, Calli prepared for and taught the Cooking Club.  Everyone stayed late to talk! 

Friday, they welcomed guests at Café, and on Saturday, Calli taught the kids' English classes and Isaiah also joined in with the adult classes.  Sunday, Isaiah preached at Nozomi Chapel. They were quick to explore Yamamoto and beyond. The second week was a little quieter.  Isaiah helped with weed-whacking, attended staff meeting, and Bible study.  He gave the Bible message for the monthly Prayer and Praise meeting.  They helped again with Friday Café and English classes. 

From there, they went up to Megumi Chapel where Isaiah preached Sunday morning and joined in their afternoon activities and evening fellowship.  They showed warm hospitality to several people where they stayed at the M.A. apartment.  Mission meeting, staff meeting, Bible study, and Friends' Lunch filled their final week with us.  Everyone really appreciated them and hope they will come back soon.  We praise God for their faith and love for the Lord. 

Please give thanks with us for these:

1. For the service of Calli and Isaiah English. Pray that God will bring fruit from Isaiah's Bible messages in all who heard. Please pray for him as he will undergo his final exam and preaching for licensure before the Presbytery of Ohio on Oct.17-18. Pray for wisdom for his future calling.

2. For new people who have joined Cooking Club, Friends' Lunch, and English classes where they hear God's Word proclaimed.  Pray that God will bless many with faith in Jesus. Praise God for Rod Thomas' faithful Bible messages at Friends' Lunch.

3. For the kids who have started coming to Kids' Time recently.  Pray they will bring their friends and the Lord will open opportunities to share the gospel.

4. For the dedicated service of Mr. Robert Folkerts who served as treasurer for the Committee for the Support of the Japan Mission for 2 decades. We give thanks that Mr. Gary Wood has taken up these labors enabling Mr. Folkerts to retire!

Please pray for these requests:

1. That the Lord will raise up a team of new missionaries to send throughout Tohoku, the northeast region.  We give thanks for several inquiries to that end.

2. That the Lord will raise up 2 new missionary associates for Nozomi Chapel. We are thankful for the help of our son David who is teaching adult and junior high English classes until new help arrives!

3. For fruit from frequent visitation. For faith for Mr. and Mrs. Yoshino. 

4. For spiritual growth for all who attend worship and for saving faith for those who have yet to profess faith in Jesus. Pray also that the Lord would add to our number and build His church here.

5.  For new members (ministers, elders or deacons) for the Support Committee.  

6. The Lord to humble us before Him, weeding out sin in our hearts, disciplining us for our good so that we may share His holiness and yield the fruit of righteousness (Heb.12:10-11).  Pray also that the Lord would sustain our strength and health as we pursue His calling here.

Yours in Christ,

Woody and Laurie Lauer,    OPC Japan Mission, Yamamoto, Japan 

Prayer Notes, August, 2025

Dear Friends,

Many months have passed since we last wrote, and we are assured more than ever, that the message of Christ crucified is the power of God to transform lives.  This year has been filled with all the usual activities: weekly worship, cafe, and Bible studies plus Saturday English classes, Friends'  Lunch, cooking class, and visitation.  

One special blessing the Lord gave us this past year was Missionary Associate Sue Bickett whose life, faith, and witness in Yamamoto touched the hearts of many.  A tireless and gifted servant for the Lord, Sue quickly adjusted to Nozomi Church and Center activities showering the love of Jesus to all around her.  As her friendships were blossoming this spring, we were all surprised that the Lord called her back to care for her sister (and her sister's husband) following serious surgery, requiring months of recovery.  We cannot give thanks enough to Sue for her joyful service and to the Lord for the immense help and encouragement she was here.

We give thanks:

• For continued good attendance and pray for conversions at our regular outreach  activities: Cooking Club and Friends' Lunch.

• For the ongoing support that the mission has received through the  Committee for the Support the OPC Japan Mission. 

• March 11. For the 14th annual memorial of the 2011 disaster, U.K. missionary Catherine Porter played a marvelous harp concert at Nozomi.  Also, Nozomi sponsored a joint concert with other area evangelical churches at a Community Hall which drew many to hear the gospel.  Pray the Lord will continue to use the seeds planted to bring neighbors to faith in Christ.

• April 11. Etsuko Sato was called to meet the Lord.  We give thanks she had been attending worship and Bible study for most of 5 years and for her increased faith in Christ. We miss her very much.  In her will, she requested to have her husband's remains (a Christian) transferred (out of a Buddhist cemetery) to be buried with her in a Christian cemetery.   That is a significant testimony to her unbelieving son and others.  Pray for his and his daughters' conversion. 

• April 29, Kid's Pizza Party led by Sue Bickett was a fun time with lots of kids and a Bible message.

• May. For Rev. Stephen Lauer's installation as a Pastor at Covenant OPC, Tucson, AZ, and for former (2024) intern Paul Lauer's seminary graduation from RPTS.

• June, July. For Paul Lauer's internship with Rev. Kaz Yaegashi at Yamagata Presbyterian Church and (August) pray for his current internship in Kobe under the Japan R.P. presbytery. 

• For the many who served this summer at Nozomi. Pray for continued fruit from their labors:

• volunteer Brianna Zera's (Cornerstone OPC, Ambler, Pa.) service in the first half of June, contributing daily at Nozomi to the work and activities.

• the team from Korean Christian Church in Honolulu who taught several days of hula classes for adults and kids, cooking class, Hawaiian pigeon English for kids, and served up a barbecue for 70.  

• the team from CrossPoint CRC in mid-July who taught cooking club, served the neighbors by yard work, cafe, and a California luncheon on Saturday. 

• volunteer Elley Buehler (Harvest OPC, Wyoming, Mich.) who worked alongside staff through various activities in mid-July. 

• Rev. and Mrs. David Thibault's 3 week visit to the mission in July-August, and for his preaching (at Megumi and Nozomi) and  messages at cooking club and Friends' Lunch; Amy and David's teaching at Megumi Chapel's creation seminar and Amy's teaching a craft class at Nozomi; Amy's extensive help with VBS using Charlie the Gospel Worm materials translated into Japanese. They were super busy! 

1. Pray for these items:

• This week especially pray that Japanese Christians and inquirers who believe but have yet to be baptized as they face intense pressure from family and society to participate in Obon will withstand such pressure. Obon is the three day festival of receiving the dead ancestral spirits back from a place of suffering, offering light for their path and food to sustain.  Mrs. Mori says the Buddhist priest visits every one of the 20 homes in her neighborhood to pray for the dead, and she thinks she cannot refuse him. 

• That Mr. Muranushi's understanding of the faith would be grounded in Scripture alone. Mr. M, in his 70s, is considered an evangelist in a holiness church but has been drawn to worshiping at Nozomi.  Woody and he have begun studying Machen's Introduction to the New Testament.  

• For fruit from frequent visitation of the sick. For faith for Mr. and Mrs. Yoshino and spiritual growth for Mr. Inomata. 

• For Woody's seminary teaching at Kobe Theological Hall.

• For OPC, Sewickley, Pa. intern Isaiah English's September exploratory visit to the OPC Japan Mission that the Lord might call him to this work. 

• The Lord would send two new Missionary Associates to join the work at Nozomi Church.    

• The Lord to raise up four new missionary candidates for the OPC Japan Mission and new members (ministers, elders or deacons) for the Support Committee.  

• The Lord to humble us before Him, weeding out sin in our hearts, disciplining us for our good so that we may share His holiness and yield the fruit of righteousness (Heb.12:10-11).  Pray also that the Lord would sustain our strength and health as we pursue His calling here.

Yours in Christ,

Woody and Laurie Lauer

Summer blessings and Seeds sown, Part Two (Prayer Notes)

Dear Friends,

Farmers Sowing Seeds

What happens when you mix people who maintain large, impressive farms from a small U.S. town of 575  with people from Yamamoto whose 12,000 residents have small farms but are considered rural?  Lots of questions, interest, and genial, happy smiles exploded in August when we welcomed a team of eight from Ireton, Iowa CRC who were seeking to learn about bringing the gospel to Japan. Touring the devastated parts of Yamamoto Town, they  began to understand the effect on survivors and the lingering affliction which only the Lord Jesus can heal and through whose gospel alone these people can know forgiveness and eternal life with God. 

Cooking Club Coleslaw

Each helped in preparation and hospitality. At the cooking class, Carmen Noteboom taught how to make Ireton coleslaw, and Jim Dekkers modeled their recipe for Pineapple Chicken Steak.  Woody's message centered on "How can we be justified before God?" looking at Luke 18's parable of the pharisee and the tax collector.   While all were eating lunch, Pastor Nate Kuperus gave a fascinating slide presentation about their town's Dutch heritage, their farming way of life (sheep, pigs, cattle, crops), their church, and how they work together to sell feed and raise money for their Christian school.  Introducing the team members individually led to many questions from our Yamamoto friends, and when they finished, the team had many questions for them! The warm, bilingual interchange resulted in much appreciation for one another.  

That evening, with Rev. Ken Lee's help, the team served dinner to 46 people, including a number of first time visitors.  Pastor Kuperus showed the slide presentation again, and intern Paul Lauer spoke from John 14:1-6 about the hope offered to us in Christ and the mercy God shows to us as sinners by redeeming us through Jesus (Rom. 3:23-26). 

We give thanks that the Word of God was proclaimed to many that day and pray that seeds sown will bring abundant fruit and faith in the hearers.  We were privileged to serve together and pray for our people at Nozomi.

Paul Lauer exhorting

Young Men Invest in Nozomi and Yamamoto

Arriving September 28, four young men sent by a California URC congregation plunged into the work here.   Dustin Burge (WSC student) preached a fine sermon Sunday morning, and the men prepared a lunch for our fellowship time following.  Monday, they passed out invitations at a local elementary school for the game event the next day.

California team passing out invitations

Tuesday, they had a blast playing with the kids; we thank God that all but one of whom were new to Nozomi.

Wednesday, two men worked all day emptying the large shed of unusable items and bringing meticulous order. Hoorah!  The other two fixed key outdoor lighting fixtures.  As a result, (not only can we lock the door easily at night!) the cross on the church building is now visible both day and night.  What a tremendous blessing!  Thursday, Aniket led the cooking class, teaching Shrimp Scampi and King Oyster Mushroom Dish. 

Aniket’s Cooking Club

Friday, they mingled with cafe guests while Dustin and Jonas, who is also interested in ministry, played guitar and piano. 

And then, they were off to Tokyo.  Their contributions were significant, and we enjoyed encouraging times of fellowship.  We praise God for providing so many new avenues to bring the Word of God and Christ's love to the people.

Give Thanks for:

1) The team members from Ireton, Iowa CRC and Escondido URC for their labors and prayers for the gospel going forward in Yamamoto.   We continue to give thanks for the support of Cedar OPC, Harvest OPC, and the Korean Christian Church of Hawaii as well sharing in the work here.

2) For increasing attendance at Cooking Club and Friends' Lunch with new and old participants hearing the Word of God.  Pray for God's blessing on the Bible message tomorrow with 24 attending Friends' Lunch- that many may be drawn to know and love the Savior Jesus. Thank God for Rev. Rod Thomas who faithfully brings these messages and his wife who makes amazing desserts for all to enjoy.

3) The Bible message at the piano class today celebrating the birth of Christ and for the blessing that this class has been to many throughout the year.

4) Missionary Associate (MA) Sue Bickett's enthusiastic and tender labors here.  She is an encouragement to many to believe in Jesus and a great strength to the staff.  Pray for her continued Japanese studies and walk with the Lord.

5) Tomoko Sugawara, our Japanese staff worker, who labors tirelessly and whose desire is to see the church be established in Yamamoto.

6) That the Committee for the Support of the OPC Japan Mission received sufficient funds to cover its commitments not only to the Lauers and the Uomotos, but also to the Cummings and our two summer interns.

Pray for:

1. Mr. M. and Mr. I., along with others who attend worship, that God will open their hearts to a full understanding of Jesus' lordship and help them to trust wholly in Him, not fearing men or fearing loss of family and friend relationships.  Mr. M. said that this past Sunday's message on 1 Cor. 10 taught clearly about not giving offerings to a Buddhist altar or Shinto gods.

2. God's blessing on Paul Lauer's last year of seminary studies, for passing presbytery exams for licensure and for his health. He is taking an overload of course credits to be able to complete his M.Div.

3. Woody's NT teaching at Kobe Theological Hall next month.

4. The Lord to raise up four new missionary candidates for the OPC Japan Mission and new members (ministers, elders or deacons) for the Support Committee.

5. The Lord to use the three messages Woody delivers this week regarding the 1st coming of the Lord Jesus, to convert the 30 some non-Christians who will hear the gospel:  the 11 members of the Piano class, the 15 Moms and kids who will attend the Kids' Christmas Party on Dec. 21, and the Lord's Day message on Matthew 1:18ff.  We thank God that some who attend our activities have said they will come to worship on Sunday.

6. The Lord to humble us before Him, weeding out sin in our hearts, disciplining us for our good so that we may share His holiness and yield the fruit of righteousness (Heb.12:10-11).  Pray also that the Lord would sustain our strength and health as we pursue His calling here.

Thank you for sharing with us in prayer for those who live in darkness,

Woody and Laurie Lauer

Summer Blessings and Seeds Sown, Part One (Prayer Notes)

Dear Friends,

Summer showers of blessing from our Heavenly Father

While the blazing days of summer seem a distant memory in the past, the blessings of seeds sown and the friendships made with neighbors are ever present in our thanksgiving.  In July, Ethan Hunter led a team largely from Cedar OPC and Harvest OPC in Michigan to Nozomi.  Fourteen volunteers had considered well how to use their talents and skills, investing their hearts and full energy into showing the love of Christ and supporting the proclamation of the gospel here in Yamamoto.  Arriving late on Friday night, Saturday morning, they settled in, prepared food, music, and decorations for the afternoon English cafe (no small feat after traveling for more than 24 hours!).  Of the 10 visitors, 2 new people have returned several times to other activities, and others are now coming more frequently: seemingly small, but significant steps in opportunities for evangelism. Team members were bold to welcome and seek out conversation with the visitors.  Following AM worship, they got to know people at tea time.  Mondays and Tuesdays, the team split helping out a church plant up in Sendai.  Those who remained worked on much-needed repairs including rebuilding a wall in the main room damaged by 3 major earthquakes in 2021 and 2022 and numerous smaller repairs as well.  They attached a railing for our wheelchair ramp so needful for our elderly.  Some went to help neighbors with major cutting of overgrowth and trees on several area properties. They tackled removing and sorting many items in the damaged storage shed.  All of it was such a blessing and much appreciated beyond words! 

Team from Cedar and Harvest OPCs in Michigan

The new railing and helpers.

Water Games

Every day was packed. Wednesday, the team passed out invites at the elementary school for VBS. Thursday, they welcomed 20 visitors to Friends' Lunch. Here, the opportunity to pray for and see God's Word declared to unbelievers fills us with praise; the joy of singing hymns with them, engaging them in conversation, and playing games builds trust and community. Friday, they served at cafe and talked with people while preparing for the Saturday.  At VBS, after the Bible story, singing, and Bible memory time, the team had prepared an amazing amount of varied activity stations.  Multiple sports' stations, painting, water play, and even tie-dying towels: each kid and mom was important, encouraged, and loved.  One of the new kids joined our English classes where he hears a Bible story every week. In the last few days, they helped us collate and pass out the monthly 1500 flyers. The team's kind and loving efforts brought glory to the Lord and the love of Christ to the people here.  We thank God and each team member for their labors and encouragement. (See loads of photos on the Nozomi Center Facebook, 7/17-7/22 posts.)

Bible Message at VBS

Friends Lunch”

The Ongoing Spiritual Battle for Dear Souls

In the quiet weeks of November following the blessings of June to October, the Lord brought a new visitor several weeks in a row and, with him, a test of faith to many attending.  In the tea time after worship, several discussions ensued.  One voice became raised above the others; the man was talking about his faith in Christ, but also how natural it is to offer incense and prayers on behalf of his ancestors because all of his extended family pays honor to them.  He stated that he goes to the Shinto shrine to offer prayers there, but prays to Jesus.  He addressed the two women sitting across from him, and said, "You hang up the New Year's decoration, don't you?   You offer incense on the Buddhist altar and say prayers for your ancestors, don't you?"  The first woman was growing confused and asked the second woman, "Do you hang up that decoration (a symbolic welcome asking the spirits to visit their home to bless it)?"  The second woman (yet unbaptized) said, "No, I don't offer incense or make prayers at either the ancestral altar or the Shinto god shelf though I have it in my home because of my husband's family.  I don't participate in any of that. I don't hang the Shinto New Year's ornament." The man became increasingly emphatic that one could be both Christian in faith and share in Buddhist and pagan practices. Others in the room, sure of their faith, fell silent listening.  Woody intervened bringing several Bible passages to the discussion, especially 1 Corinthians 10:20-21 and Luke 16:19-31.  He said that, "if you could hear the voice of your ancestors, they would be saying, 'Don't come here [hell].'" They don't want offerings of tea and rice. Sadly, two men insisted that these practices are cultural and not religious.  Conforming to societal norms around them is appropriate in their minds while God's Word teaches us otherwise.  It was discouraging after all the years we have poured into teaching the women the truth to have these men contradicting it, but we know that all of them need the truth.

Satan has deceived this nation, and only God's Word applied by the Holy Spirit can change the hearts of these people. For this reason, with much prayer and with patient love under-girding firm teaching, these false claims must be addressed. Please pray with us that even this week at Bible study and the coming Lord's Day, progress towards a faithful understanding of God as the only true God and Jesus as the only Savior of the world would take root in the hearts of all who attend.  Pray also for peaceful discussions.

Give Thanks for:

1) The Campbell family who served enthusiastically. After many months of prayer, they have decided the Lord will be best pleased to have Benjamin serve a congregation in the States. Benjamin is a dear servant of the Lord and His Word whose compassion for the lost and the saved is abundantly evident.  We give thanks for Joelle, the children, and Benjamin and the many ways in which they helped us here.  It was a privilege to serve together.  Thank you to all who contributed to make their service here possible. Ben said they  may be open to a call to Japan in the future.

2) The team members from Cedar and Harvest OPC churches.  May the Lord bless their walk with Him in the years to come.  Thanks for the generosity of these two churches in supporting their work at Nozomi Chapel.

3) For increasing attendance at cooking club with new and old members hearing the Word of God.  After last week's meeting, one lady said she plans to come to Christmas worship. The message on Matt 1 and the name Jesus touched the hearts of several.  Pray that God will draw these dear people to know and love the Savior Jesus.

4) Missionary Associate (MA) Sue Bickett's enthusiastic and tender labors here.  She is an encouragement to many and a great strength to the staff.  Pray for her continued Japanese studies and walk with the Lord.

5) Tomoko Sugawara, our Japanese staff worker, who labors tirelessly and whose desire is to see the church be established in Yamamoto.

6) That the Committee for the Support of the OPC Japan Mission received sufficient funds to cover its commitments not only to the Lauers and the Uomotos, but also to the Cummings and our two summer interns.

Pray for:

1. Mr. M. and Mr. I. that God will open their hearts to a full understanding of Jesus' lordship and help them to trust wholly in Him, not fearing men or fearing loss of family and friend relationships.

2. God's blessing on Paul Lauer's last year of seminary studies and for passing presbytery exams for licensure.

3. Woody's OT teaching at KTH this weekend.

4. The Lord to raise up four new missionary candidates for the OPC Japan Mission and new members (ministers, elders or deacons) for the Support Committee.

5. The Lord to humble us before Him, weeding out sin in our hearts, disciplining us for our good so that we may share His holiness and yield the fruit of righteousness (Heb.12:10-11).  Pray also that the Lord would sustain our strength and health as we pursue His calling here.

Yours in Christ,

Woody and Laurie Lauer

Yamagata church history and organization.

On May 22, the Yamagata Reformed Church, a fruit of fifty years of OPC Japan

Mission work, became a particular congregation of the OPC’s sister church, the

Presbyterian Church in Japan. In some ways, the story begins well over a century ago.

In 1906, James Erskine Moore was born to missionary parents in Osaka, Japan

(southwest Honshu). A 1933 graduate of Westminster Seminary, Moore was ordained

into the PCUS a year later. He pastored southern California churches as an OPC

minister from 1951 to 1961. Though he himself remained in America, his oldest child,

David McIlwaine Moore left for college zealous for missionary service in Japan,

ultimately serving as a missionary-evangelist of the OPC. Moore’s second daughter,

Katie Moore Yaegashi also returned as an adult to her father’s childhood home. Katie

and Ruthann Graybill were two of the first missionary associates (MAs) to teach

English and help in the church plant.

Like his father, David was ordained in the PCUS but, upon call to missionary

service in Japan by the OPC’s Committee on Foreign Missions, he transferred to the

OPC and left for the field in 1968. After two years in language school David and Arnold

Kress, who had been sent by the OPC two years earlier, began a new mission work in

the city of Yamagata, the prefectural capital, which lies about half way between the

Pacific and the Sea of Japan. Moore explains the choice: “for basic considerations of

ease of transportation, the decision was made to settle on Yamagata.” The city of

247,000 lies relatively near the larger cities of Sendai and Fukushima (also prefectural

capitals), where senior missionaries George Uomoto and Heber McIlwaine were living.

From the start of the work in Yamagata (1971), following the biblical model of

sending missionaries out in twos, Moore and Kress labored together. They began

Lord’s Day services in 1972 and continued together until the Kresses left Yamagata in

1974 (ultimately transferring to the Christian Reformed Japan Mission). Soon thereafter,

Katie married Kaz Yaegashi who, in 1977, was called by the OPC Japan Mission to

serve as an associate missionary-evangelist from the PCA’s Mississippi Valley

Presbytery, which call he [will have] served until his retirement this August.

Yamagata outreach took many forms. David, alongside Arnold, drove a

Volkswagen bus as a bookmobile around town – both selling books and distributing

tracts.  He was often asked to teach English, which classes he passed on to the MAs

whenever feasible.  At one community center English club, David organized an annual

“homestay” program with the Garden Grove OPC congregation in California (now

Westminster OPC); they took young people to experience life in Christian

families. Through this, one student, Takako Sugawara, was converted and baptized.

David likewise encouraged his English students to join Katie’s English Bible class.  At

Katie’s class, Miss Otah says that she loved Jesus from the first time she heard about

him and was baptized soon thereafter. A student named Shio Yashima believed in Jesus,

and later her mother (amazingly Kaz’s preschool classmate) was baptized as well. 

Today, her husband and son are also part of the church. 

Through community participation, each bridge into people’s lives provided

opportunities to speak about Jesus. David was often asked to give lectures for the Junior

Chamber of Commerce.  At one such lecture, he told them that he was not an expert in

education per se, but went on to speak about Christian education.   David also taught

a unique English class for translating picture books, which Katie continues to this day. 

Over the many years, Katie has taught cooking to women in the area.  Grace Moore

taught at a girls high school, and invited her students to Christmas worship; through

this, some began attending Sunday school. The model of their ministry has been,

“Whatever gives me contact with people gives me opportunity to talk about the

hope we have in Christ.”

Other unusual strategies included Kaz’s teaching at the nominally Christian

Yamagata Gakuin High School as Bible and English teacher (1977 -2008) as a means of

self-support and for ministry to hundreds of young people. He baptized two students and

at least five students became Christians. Many gospel seeds were planted. At a

“wedding chapel,” David officiated marriages of non-Christians, presenting the gospel

and Christian view of marriage in premarital counseling. When David went on furlough,

Kaz agreed to substitute for him though he was hesitant at the beginning. Kaz explains

his discovery, “I had a wonderful opportunity each time I met with the couple before

their wedding, sharing the gospel and Christ’s love for family. Some of those married

came to church for worship, and I still have contact with several couples.” Further, Kaz

said that together the two brothers-in-law organized a “men’s dinner fellowship a few

times a year, inviting businessmen in Yamagata City.  David developed a far and wide

affiliation with many influential men in the Yamagata business world, upon whose

minds he left a gospel-based view of world and life.”

Sunday school has always been an avenue for reaching children in the area.  At

one point, Yamagata Chapel had the biggest group in all of the Tohoku churches. 

David organized Christian summer camps for youth as well.  Their VBS program has

also been active for years with several members helping to lead in various ways.

David and Kaz’s involvement with other Yamagata churches continued to

strengthen and encourage the Christian witness throughout the entire city.  In the early

years, Arnold helped with the deaf church in town. The chapel has also jointly

sponsored a number of evangelistic Christian concerts.  Each December, they hold a

large, city-wide women’s Christmas luncheon at an elegant hotel. There, women from

different churches bring their friends to hear an evangelistic message.  Typically, half of

those attending are unbelievers.  Katie has also held an important weekly Bible study

for pastors’ wives.  Building these bridges continues to be part of building the Kingdom

of Christ.

Over the years, David, who served in Japan until 2000, and Kaz discipled and

baptized 42 people into the Yamagata congregation. Of those, 33 were adults.

Consonant with the general population decline of the city, many one-time members

have left Yamagata and enriched churches elsewhere, leaving a total of 19 resident

members comprising the newly particularized congregation.

During the service of reception of the Yamagata Church into the Presbyterian

Church in Japan, Messrs. Shinichi Inoue and Shinji Sasaki were ordained as ruling

elders and our missionary, Rev. Yaegashi, was installed as a cooperating pastor by the

Musashi Presbytery of the PCJ. OPCJM missionaries, Murray Uomoto from Presbytery

of Dakotas (Sendai Megumi Chapel) and Stewart Lauer from Presbytery of Ohio

(Yamamoto Nozomi Chapel) represented the mission, praising God and encouraging the

congregation. We thank God for the OPC’s full participation in this ministry through

the prayers and generous offerings of its churches, and

for sending faithful servants to build His Kingdom in Yamagata and pray he will

continue to build faithful churches through our Japan Mission.

Yamagata PCJ joins East Sendai RCJ as the second particular church begun by

the post-war OPC Japan Mission, along with six mission works.

Afterword: On a sad note, Mr. Moore, a member of Lake Sherwood OPC, went

to be with his Lord on January 28, 2022, shortly before Yamagata

became a particular congregation of the PCJ.

Prayer Notes July 2020 supplement

Dear Friends,

We rejoice in what the Lord did today (Thursday, July 23) at Yamamoto
Nozomi Church. We witnessed the fruits of our Saturday English classes
for children, together with those flowing from our semi-weekly Kids'
time -- 2 hours in the afternoon Tuesdays and Fridays.  Both activities
have seen improving attendance since late last year.

Every summer, we have held a one day Vacation Bible School.  We really
missed the help of volunteer teams from abroad from this year!  Today,
18 children joined-- roughly half from each group plus some other
neighborhood kids. Nine mothers also came, sitting with their kids,
through the activities.   VBS ran from 9 am to 2 pm, though many of the
kids hung around to play afterward.  We were very thankful for the
beautiful weather God gave us during rainy season!

Our schedule included singing "Jesus Loves Me" in both languages, a
craft related to the song, games -- indoor and out, bento (box lunches),
and, of course, two 20 minute Bible messages on the theme, "Who is
Jesus?": (1) Jesus is the eternal Son of God who became man; (2) Jesus
is the Savior who saves us from our sin.  The younger kids memorized a
slightly abridged form of Matthew 17:5, while those age 6 and over
similarly memorized a slightly abridged version of Matthew 27:54.  All
went home with gifts, generously donated by Elder Ishikawa who continues
to minister to refugees from areas near the damaged nuclear reactors in
Fukushima.

Please pray for these children and the moms; to our knowledge none is a
Christian.  Pray the word planted today would find 'good soil' in the
hearts of these 27 attendees.

Thank you for praying for the Kingdom of Christ to come in Japan,

Woody and Laurie Lauer

June-July 2020 Prayer Notes

Dear Friends,
    We are delighted to be able to report that, in June, regular Nozomi Center activities resumed.  Worship services, weekly Bible Study and twice-a-week Kids' Time continued right through the March through May shutdown of many activities in our town.  We were able to maintain English classes via the internet.  We have been greatly comforted by our Lord's promise as we proclaim his message of hope and confess him before men:

"What I tell you in the darkness, speak in the light; and what you hear whispered in your ear, proclaim upon the housetops.
"Do not fear those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.
"Are not two sparrows sold for a cent? And yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father.
"But the very hairs of your head are all numbered.  So do not fear; you are more valuable than many sparrows.
"Therefore everyone who confesses Me before men, I will also confess him before My Father who is in heaven. "
(Mat 10:27-32)

Please join us in giving thanks

1. That we have been able to worship together through this difficult time.  Pray that we would grow in our love for, knowledge of, and obedience to the Lord Jesus. 

2. For the two non-Christians who have attended worship several times. Pray that Mr Aita and Miss Sakurai will become regular at worship and come to believe and profess faith in Christ.

3. For the attendance at Friends' Lunch and Laurie's Cooking Club.  Though attendance has been down from "pre-shutdown" numbers, we have had over half of our normal attendance.  People are again hearing the gospel during these center activities. 

4. For Woody being able to teach some of the Kobe Theological Hall Old Testament Survey students face to face in June.

5. That Rod and Glenda Thomas, missionaries from South Africa who help with Friends' Lunch (tomorrow), have been able to return to Japan from home assignment!  Their return from S.A. had been prevented for several months due to travel restrictions.

6. For Mr. Sayama, a neighbor in his 20's, coming to Kids' Time.  He along with one mother, Mrs. Nemoto, are a big encouragement to the kids and us as we build community together.  Pray the Lord will draw them both to know God.  Pray that God will open the door to sharing the gospel with the kids.  The last couple of times we have read Bible stories to them.

7. For new students of all ages in the English classes.  Pray God will work in their hearts as they listen to the weekly Bible message. 

Please join us praying

1. For fruit from Rod's evangelistic message at Friends' Lunch tomorrow.

2. That God will open the hearts of the dozen children or so who will attend our VBS, "Kids' Festival," next Thursday (July 23), and for our preparations.

3. For the non-Christians who had been attending worship occasionally before the virus outbreak but are still not coming.  Pray that God would break the bondage to idols as well as the fear of men for many visitors:  Mrs. Uno, Mrs. Isago, Mrs. Saeki, Mr. Watanabe, Mrs Nemoto.

4. That God will open the door for Cal and Edie Cummings to return to Japan to help with mission labors.  Sadly due to travel bans, we will not receive help from summer teams which have been such a great blessing in the past.

5. That the glory of Christ as Lord and Savior would be proclaimed to every home in Yamamoto. 

6. That God will raise up faithful Japanese men, young and old to preach the gospel alongside our missionaries as well as bring new missionaries.  The fields of those who have not heard are vast in number here.

Now to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, be the glory forever!

Woody and Laurie Lauer

OPC Japan Mission, Yamamoto, Japan

May 2020 Prayer Notes

Dear Friends,

Silence, do you hear the silence of these last few months? In Yamamoto, lockdown has been the order of the day since early March.  Schools close, public meetings and events are canceled, fear of the invisible virus becomes consuming. Streets are largely empty. Those suffering with physical, emotional, or mental struggles find no solace.  Those who mourn must do so alone. Pain of every kind is magnified without hope.  Visiting a neighbor may bring further anxiety, though the joy of human contact is real. During these months, our longing has been to bring the unmatchable, glorious news of the only living, merciful Savior who reigns supreme over these events in history.  Psalm 91 assures us that God is our fortress. Verses 3-4,”For it is He who delivers you from the snare of the trapper and from the deadly pestilence…And under his wings you may seek refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and bulwark.”   Nothing can separate us from the love of God.

Lots of news follows these prayer requests, but we ask that you join in praise for these items:

1) For opening activities again.  Pray God will bring fruit through the preaching and teaching of his Word at worship, Bible study, English classes, Cooking Club, and Friends' Lunch. 

2) For visitors at worship, Mr. Aita and Miss Yuuka Sakurai. Pray they will come to know Christ.

3) For good relationships at Kids' Time.  Pray God will give the kids a desire to know Him.

Pray for these requests:

1) That God will be pleased to break through the spiritual darkness in Yamamoto.  May he pour our His Spirit, bringing the truth of his infinite, eternal and unchangeable nature in his being, wisdom, power, holiness, justice, goodness, and truth AND the knowledge of the Savior to every family.

2) That God will raise up faithful Japanese men, young and old to preach the gospel alongside our missionaries as well as bring new missionaries.  The fields of those who have not heard are vast in number here.

3) For Mr. A (atheist) to come to seek the Lord.  See story below.

4) Open the door for the return of missionaries Rod and Glenda Thomas from South Africa. Their scheduled return has been postponed since March.  His church in Sendai misses him. We also miss his preaching at Friends' Lunch!  

5) That daily God will conform us to the image of Christ, that we might say with Paul, "I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me, and delivered Himself up for me (Gal 2:20)

On to the news!  These several months, we have visited people throughout Yamamoto, often bringing masks, cakes, and most importantly, a warm heart of concern along with a daily devotional to those interested.  Though the emergency restrictions were lifted by mid-May, warnings to slowly return to normal life have been heeded and a delicate balance of respect has been maintained.  While Nozomi Center activities have been canceled we have been thankful for those who drop by to talk.  This past Friday, we officially re-opened café.  The seven people who came were relieved to be together!  Others have visited since to find out when they can come. We look forward to Thursday’s Cooking Club; several have been disappointed that we weren’t able to meet, but Mrs. Kusano was overjoyed to hear today that we start back on June 4th.

The kids’ time is a unique story.  Though Tuesdays and Fridays are the scheduled days, with school out, the kids have been coming every day to play, often coming into our house to call us.  Nozomi is becoming their place to meet.  SaraJean has been an unspeakable catalyst in bonding with the kids and teaching them to be kind to one another.  The kids love playing with Woody and Tomoko.  We thank God for this crucial time to build friendships and trust.  We pray that God will give these kids a hunger to know Him and His Word.

We are thankful that, though our numbers are small, Nozomi Chapel  has continued to meet for worship every Lord's Day.  In addition to the four Christians, one man, Mr. Aita, having attended various activities, has now attended worship several times.  He has borrowed and read a number of Christian books and a good bit of the Bible as well.  Miss Yuuka Sakurai, a college student, has come recently several times as well.  She lost her grandfather last month and has had a lot of good questions about the Bible and being a Christian.  Weekly Bible study has continued with 2 faithful attendees. 

Despite the fact that many domestic flights have been canceled, including the ones Woody regularly uses to get to Kobe Theological Hall six times per year, he was able to travel to for two days of intensive NT Introduction classes in May (14-16), though the classes wound up being streamed for most of those 'attending'.  He has flights booked for June 11-13, when KTH plans to return to regular classroom instruction; pray for his OT Survey lectures. 

SaraJean has continued English classes for the younger kids and the teens via through the internet, and Woody has also continued the Bible messages.  One girl this week exclaimed, “I can read!”  Simple words, though they be, are a landmark. Last week, some kids were talking about Jesus and Easter- thinking he was dead; the Bible message that followed proclaimed that Jesus is alive!  May God plant that seed in their hearts.  The teens have also had some very good questions about the Bible.  The adult classes have met for most weeks.  One lady, Mrs. Oizumi has begun regularly borrowing 2-3 novels by the Christian author, Ayako Miura.  We pray for the Lord to use all the Bible messages and discussion times to bring these dear people to Christ.

Friday was a busy day of encouragement.  In addition to cafe and kids' time, several people visited. Mrs. Kikuchi dropped by to inquire about activities, and remarked that many of her neighbors don't come to Nozomi because we are Christians.  She, however, was communicating that she is comfortable with us as Christians.  Her friend, Mrs. Iga, who invited her, has often asked good questions about the Bible.   Yuuka S. came for the whole afternoon and helped out. Mr. Saitoh from Marumori (whose first floor was renovated by carpenters Bill Looft and Mark Palmer) stopped by to talk and ask about worship.  Seeing the kids, he left and brought back generous snacks for them. Mr. Takahashi, an old cafe friend, came back to Nozomi for the first time in nearly a year, having been recently rehired by the town and was excited to reestablish ties with us.  We thank God for the happiness of the people we met that day!

Ever mindful of the very real spiritual battle in which we are engaged, we are always in prayer as we pass out our monthly Nozomi calendars.  Laurie was greatly saddened Friday by an unusual encounter with a man who asked what Nozomi Center does and why.  That is always a joy to answer.  However, this elderly man explained that he is an atheist and proceeded to lecture her for 30 minutes on why we should not be seeking to bring Christianity (or any religion) to anyone.  He mocked and ridiculed the idea of Jesus as God, proclaiming that there was no truth in any religion and there is no God.  He was agitated and rejected the very idea of Christian volunteers in the community. He accused us of seeking to make money as the Jehovah Witnesses do.Though he asked questions, he didn't give opportunity for answers.   Responding calmly and only respectfully disagreeing when he made false accusations about the God of the Bible, she was truly grieved that this poor soul is one described in Psalm 10:4, "The wicked, in the haughtiness of his countenance, does not seek Him. All his thoughts are, "There is no God." This darkness which has a hold on his heart is the same as the deception of idolatry which grips most of this town.  May God mercifully be pleased bring him to faith and repentance.

Praying for you and glad that you join in prayer for the people of Japan,

Woody and Laurie Lauer

March 2020 Prayer Notes

Dear Friends,

Today marks the ninth anniversary of the massive earthquake and tsunami that struck the Pacific coast of the NE part of Japan's main island (Honshu), killing nearly 20,000 total.  Almost 700 in our small town died and the resulting devastation caused a 25% decrease in the population down to nearly 12,000. Most town residents lost at least one family member, relative, or close friend.  For example, our next door neighbor, Miss Takayama, is the only surviving member out of her family of four.  Though Yamamoto Town has canceled all public gatherings for March due to the Corona virus, including today's town memorial ceremony, many came to pray for the dead at the memorial wall and many candles were lit for the spirits of deceased loved ones. 

The Apostle Paul urges us who are in Christ to "comfort one another with these words" (1Thessalonians 4:18) when we have lost loved ones in Christ: "We do not want you to be uninformed, brethren, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve, as do the rest who have no hope.  For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep in Jesus."   (1Thes 4:13-15). 

Please pray for these items:

1. Sadly, in Yamamoto (which prior to 2016 had not a single Christian church) few have ever heard the gospel of Jesus, much less been baptized into Him.  On the contrary, the town memorial wall, located two hundred yards from Nozomi, known as the "Memorial to Comfort the Spirits" was again the site of Buddhist prayers for the dead today. The Nozomi (relief) Center and Church facility continues to be the venue for dozens of people to hear the gospel every month.  Pray for conversions: that many would come to have true comfort in Christ, both now and after their death.

2. Today, we had planned to host a memorial concert by Mr. and Mrs. Makoto Iwabuchi, well-known Japanese gospel singers at 3 pm, just after the Yamamoto town ceremonies ended, but alas, the fears of spreading the Corona virus led us to cancel the event. Please pray that we can reschedule the concert, and that, at Friday cafe, we will have opportunities to share Christ with many guests.

3. God's blessing on the (Japanese) Bible messages in the hearts of those who attend our four Saturday English classes which are resuming this week after canceling last week.

4. Mr. S, a college age neighbor who has begun studying the English Bible with Woody.

5. Recently widowed Mrs. Satoh, though a baptized Christian, has expressed her desire to learn more about faith in Christ.

6. That the Lord will raise up a new generation of Orthodox Presbyterian missionaries for our aging mission and young Japanese pastors. Please contact us if you know anyone who is interested.          

7. That the Lord will raise up a summer team through the efforts by Dave Nakhla, OPC short term missions coordinator, and Matt Filbert, Reformed Presbyterian short term missions coordinator.

8. Good health and safe travel for Rev. and Mrs. Calvin K. Cummings, who plan to return to Japan next month to (a) allow the Uomotos to have home service this spring, (b) help us with team(s) over the summer, and (c) work in our place while we do home service in the fall.

Praying that every household in Yamamoto will come to know the good news of Jesus Christ,

Laurie and Woody

Feb 2020 Prayer Notes

Dear Friends,

We thank you for joining us in prayer for the people of Yamamoto and Japan.  We thank our merciful Lord for answering those prayers.  We surely should expect no less from our God who is building the Kingdom of Christ throughout the world and here in Japan (Matt. 7:7). 

December was filled with good times. In addition to the regularly scheduled activities, we had our largest turnout for the the Junior/Senior high Christmas party, the kids' Christmas party, and worship services.   We have been praying for increased contact with young people and the Lord is answering that prayer little by little.  We have 4 new English students who hear Bible messages every week. Continue to pray that the Lord will plant the seed of His Word in their hearts and bring them to faith in Christ. 

In the midst of those busy days, carpenters, Bill Looft (New York) and Mark Palmer (Alabama), responded to our call for volunteers. They  blessed us with their cheerful aid, hard work, and encouragement. Bill and Mark gave 2 weeks of their time to rebuild homes in Marumori homes flooded by Typhoon 19.  We were very grateful for the generous offerings of the RPCNA churches both in Kobe and the U.S. which supported their work as well as helped pay for the materials.  In just 2 weeks, they rebuilt the first floors of 6 homes and served as a model for future work.  Their warm love shown through their work which impressed the homeowners and the NHK  (Japan public) TV crew.  The story of their work became a 5 minute clip in a morning show, highlighting the need for carpenters and volunteers to continue the efforts in Marumori.  Bill and Mark's love made a deep impression on the people.  See attached photos.  We are thankful to report that Mr. Ishikawa (an elder who continues to encourage Fukushima residents displaced by the nuclear disaster) has been granted access to visit the temporary housing facilities in Marumori.  Pray that the Lord will open the door for the gospel through this and other visitation, and thank God for these 2 servants!

Since the fall, we had been visiting Mr. Takeo Sato, a hospitalized believer, whose wife, Estuko Sato has begun attending worship at Nozomi.  Though his speech was very weak and his eyes were often closed, we were amazed that he would perk up and look intently at Woody as he read the Bible.  Two weeks before he death, he joined in singing 2 of his favorite hymns with a clear voice.  God was pleased to strengthen him 2 days before he died to give a clear confession of his faith in Jesus.  What a blessing to us to see his faith!  His funeral was held at Nozomi with his mostly unbelieving family in attendance.  We pray that they will respond in faith to the preaching of the resurrection hope of the gospel; Woody preached on 1 Thess. 4:13-18.  Please pray that the Lord will encourage Etsuko and continue to deepen her faith in Christ.

This month, Woody began studying the English Bible with Mr. Sayama, a young man who lives nearby, and whom we met when he came asking to use our new basketball court. His English is quite good. Pray the Lord will lead him to faith and repentance.  Pray also for Chitose Watanabe, a local resident who commutes daily to Sendai to a nominally Christian high school (where Mr. Uomoto preaches occasionally); his homework includes attending a worship service each term.  Thus, he attends Nozomi occasionally, each time seeming very attentive, and participating in tea time or lunch after service.

Another amazing provision is the love of the people in Solomon's Porch Church in Singapore for the people of Yamamoto.  While serving with us this past fall, their 4th consecutive year, they observed that the Nozomi Church parking lot is not our own land, but has been loaned to us since 2012.  They began to pray and collect offerings to buy the lot for Nozomi!  They have raised half the money needed.  The timing is surely in the Lord's hands.  In the past year, more than 10 new homes have been constructed on empty lots in our area.  We were told that a developer has begun to buy up the land nearby, and thus, we would be greatly blessed to obtain this.  We have only space for 5 cars, but with this land, we can park 25 cars (some Center events have brought 10-20).  Thank God for their love and pray with us that the Lord will provide the other $25,000. 

Most of all, pray that God would plant his Word in those whom he draws to Nozomi Church.  Peter confessed that Jesus is the Christ.  May the people here see the glory of the true Shepherd who laid down his life that his sheep might know the Eternal God and not fear to follow Christ: "If anyone wishes to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.  For whoever wishes to save his life shall lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake, he is the one who will save it.   For what is a man profited if he gains the whole world, and loses or forfeits himself?  (Luke 9:23-25) 

We are praying that God will daily bring us to our knees that we may know Jesus and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death (Phil.3:10).  Yes, pray that we might know Jesus and that we will take every opportunity to introduce this Jesus to everyone we meet. 

May every household in Yamamoto come to know the good news of Jesus Christ,

Woody and Laurie Lauer

Sendai Occasional Ruminations: Murray Uomoto (2019.11.30)

Dear Friends,

     Greetings from Sendai, the educational and administrative center of the Tohoku (NE Japan). I must inform you of the deep needs of this Buddhistic wasteland that on the surface is quite liveable. As I slowly walked to Sendai Station in the darkness instead of taking the subway after having 4 radio messages recorded at Sendai Reformed Church, Tue., 11/26, for airing in March on the RCJ Media Ministry sponsored “Tohoku Asa no Kotoba” (Morning Words), I could only praise God for His watch care over an incredible two months. In His mercy everything was blessed though events had few attendees. I will recap.

     Sept. 19-27 found me flying 6000 miles from Sendai to Denver via Narita (north of Tokyo), then by car to Fort Collins, then on to attend the Presbytery of the Dakotas meeting at the OPC in Lander, Wyoming. Tue.-Wed., 24th-25th. It was good to fellowship with saints and many thanks for the hospitality of the (Pastor) Coppeses in Denver, the (Pastor) Allisons in Fort Collins, and the Andersons south of Lander on the high plateau though we never saw the 700 head of cattle because we left before dawn and returned late. I am so thankful for the opportunity to present through word and slides at Fort Collins in the morning, then back in Denver, the evening of Sun., the 22nd, and to catch up with old friends from Sendai, Chuck (and Barbara) Smith from Fort Collins, who did research at Tohoku U. in the early ‘90s. 

     We cannot thank my sending presbytery enough for taking over supervision of the Mission from the Presbytery of Ohio, and for the latter’s taking over supervision from the denomination’s Comm. on Foreign Missions in 2016 when the OPC ended ties with the Reformed Church in Japan begun before WWII (over the issue of women ministers and elders). 

     Sun., 9/29, we enjoyed our 2nd creation seminar of the year on “Look at the Flowers of the Field—Existence First? Purpose First? (Evolution vs. Creation)” led by United Church Pastor Sakae Toita driving from Akita Prefecture 3 hours north on the tollway with wife. We thank the Lord for sending Mr. Hayasaka, an elderly gent who saw the poster. We pray for his salvation. We are thankful for the 13 who attended including the Lauers from Nozomi Center down south, and for over 2500 flyers distributed.

     On his 3rd Japan tour, Oct. 26, Greg Hager, award winning western-country singer from Valley City, ND near Fargo, presented through guitar weaving in testimony though only 5 attended the Sat. afternoon concert—after distributing over 4000 flyers with the help of a firm. Amazing! We take comfort in helping arrange for the concerts of Izumi Park Town Christian Church nearby (OMF missionary Joel Lovestrand), Sendai Evangelical Christian Church down south (OMF missionaries Rod and Glenda Thomas), and at Nozomi Center served by the Lauers—around 25-45 attendees, praise God!

     With so few believers, Sat., 11/2, I had the privilege of officiating downtown at my first wedding. Tears welled remembering bride None* (name changed) who’d just turned 3 when she and mom began attending when our chapel began 22 years ago in our home. Groom Michael hailing from Gospel Life OPC in Chicago has been teaching English in schools in Niihama, Ehime Pref. and Sendai for around 2 years. Pray for the 50 or so who heard the gospel, wording culled from directories of worship from the OPC, RCJ and PCJ.

     Nov. 3, we enjoyed our 3rd creation seminar of the year on “God’s Present to the Country of Japan: Rice, Rice Plants, Paddies” presented by (retired) Pastor Kiyoshi Takahashi of the Conservative Baptist Church in Nishitaga in SW Sendai, with 15 attending and advertised on the backs of the 4000 concert flyers. The topic is Pastor Takahashi’s specialty as former associate professor at Tohoku U. in Sendai and researcher at the U. of Michigan in Ann Arbor and for NASA. The Lord has chosen vessels, though few with his credentials. We are thankful the next generation of leaders is being raised up and for the influence of the tiny movement beyond her numbers. When I returned to Japan in 1984, there was only one organization; now there are around 4 or 5. One, Love Creation, has the backing of the large Onnuri Church in Seoul, Korea. In the early ‘90s, a few of us pastors, missionaries (Lauer, Thomas) and brethren held monthly creation workshops at Pastor Takahashi’s church in Nishitaga—so Sendai has been blessed with pastors seeking to proclaim the God of creation in this Buddhistic wasteland of Japan—though on the surface so modern and comfortable.

     Tue., 11/12, I had the privilege of substituting for a pastor at the nearby TU* campus morning chapel with about 230 attendees, as well as leading the Mon. evening chapel service, 11/25, at the girls’ dorm on the same campus, with around 35 attending.

     Tue., 10/22, the Emperor’s coronation was attended by dignitaries from around the world. Thur.-Fri., 11/14-15, the Emperor supposedly became divine during the Shinto Daijosai rites. We are thankful the Presbyterian Church in Japan general assembly in Tokyo, 11/22-23 (Fri.-Sat.) passed a rare note of protest for state sponsorship of rites costing millions of dollars. I brought fraternal greetings from the OPC and the Mission thanking God for the 60 years of personal fellowship and the “love call” from the PCJ ecumenicity committee to work together. 

     Thur., 11/21, we attended the one year anniversary graveside service of Miss Fumiko Yoshida, faithful sometimes live-in helper to early missionaries, the McIlwaines in Fukushima, and our family in East Sendai Chapel in the ‘60s. Those remembering the old days are few.

     Tsuruko asks for prayer for Mrs. Tanaka who has been studying the Bible for around 10 years that she be granted a certain faith and repentance. She recently suffered from a stroke but is recovering. 

     The Lord be with you all.  For now.

     Murray (for both of us)

Prayer Notes: Thanksgiving in Yamamoto, 2019

Dear Friends,
We are jubilant at Thanksgiving as we remember how God has led and blessed throughout the year. We pray that you will joyfully return thanks and give glory to God for all he is doing in and through your church at this time of the year! Give thanks with us for:

1) Blessed fellowship we share with our brothers of the Japan Presbytery of the RPCNA. In May, they joined us in Yamamoto for a 2 day retreat in which we exchanged lectures on various topics including the problem of the Japanese emperor being tied to Shinto practices. Together, we encouraged one another in our labors for the Kingdom of Christ. We also are thankful for the opportunity Woody has to teach at Kobe Theological Hall and pray for God's blessing on those training for the ministry there.

2) A team of Japanese Christians coming from the Kanto area to help out in flood -stricken Marumori this weekend and for the East Sendai Church volunteers who helped on Monday. As of today, half of the sidewalks in Marumori still need mud removal; likewise, much mud remains to be removed in and around homes as city officials are beginning to worry about the spread of disease. We praise God for the diaconal gifts from the Kobe RPCNA churches to support this work. We are thrilled that two volunteer carpenters from the U.S. are arriving next Monday to help with rebuilding. We pray that the Lord will send more volunteers with carpentry skills (Dec.1-21). Volunteers, please contact David Nakhla (david.nakhla@opc.org) or Matt Filbert (Matt Filbert <proclaimchrist@rpmissions.org>)

3) The OPC mission attended the PCJ General Assembly this past weekend to learn about and discuss the possibility of working together to build the Kingdom of Christ with the Presbyterian Church in Japan. Murray Uomoto gave warm greetings for the OPC which were well-received. A very weighty discussion took place of what should be the church's response to the Shinto ceremony: the Daijousai (in which the emperor makes offerings to the gods and sleeps overnight in a special room with the goddess Amaterasu to become divine), a part of the new emperor's coronation. The ceremony, paid for by the Japanese people, cost upwards of 25 million dollars. We were encouraged to hear several of the men speak passionately from Scripture and the Westminster Confession of Faith in responding to this problem. We continue to pray about the possibility of working with them to establish churches. [For further reference about this ceremony, see https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2019/11/14/national/emperor-perform-thanksgiving-ceremony-key-succession-rite/]

Please pray:
1) For the Bible messages: Including Sunday worship, Cooking Club, Friends' Lunch, and English classes. Please pray God will speak to the hearts of the hearers and grant to them saving faith in Christ. Last Thursday, we read through the latter part of Rev.20 and the first part of 21. That was an eye opener for most! The plain message of an Almighty God executing judgment on all men, and having mercy on him whose name is written in the book of Life. They learned of the glory to come with God living among his people, making all things new, and receiving the living water without cost through Jesus. What a contrast from the Buddhist whose future is to become "nothing" in Nirvana in the afterlife if he avoids reincarnating as a lower form of life. The Bible's message is at once fearful due to our sin and glorious due to God's mercy, justice, and love in Christ. Mrs. H talked about this message for 2 hours after everyone else went home. Pray for these dear people to put their trust in Christ.
2) For God to send 10 new evangelists to come to preach the Word of God in each of the 5 prefectures in Tohoku as well as new missionaries committed to teaching in a seminary. Pray that God will provide the finances to train the men in the language and support their labors in the future. As Paul wrote, "How then shall they call upon Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?" (Rom 10:14)

Thank you for partnering with us in building Christ's Kingdom in Japan,
Woody and Laurie Lauer
For more information and pictures, please visit www.opcjapan.com and Facebook pages: OPC Japan and Nozomi Center.

The OPC Japan Mission is funded through offerings sent to the Committee for the Support of the OPC Japan Mission.

Donations can be made 1) through the OPC Japan mission website http://www.opcjapan.com/ or 2) through checks written out to "Grace OPC - Japan Mission" and sent care of the treasurer:
Grace OP Church - Japan Mission
151 South Broadway
Fair Lawn, New Jersey 07410

Prayer Notes, November, 2019

Dear Friends,

"Sing to the LORD, all the earth; Proclaim good tidings of His salvation from day to day.  Tell of His glory among the nations, His wonderful deeds among all the peoples.  For great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised; He also is to be feared above all gods.  For all the gods of the peoples are idols, But the LORD made the heavens.  Splendor and majesty are before Him, Strength and joy are in His place."   (1　Chronicles 16:23-27)

We thank God that he has charged His people to proclaim his glory to the nations, even Japan!  Pray with us that God will bring abundant fruit from the labors of the team from Solomon's Porch Church in Singapore (Oct.24-28), and the labors of those who serve in Marumori.

1) Prayer, diligence, and love for the Lord and the people here under-girded the generous service of our brothers and sisters from Singapore. Throughout the weekend, they sought  opportunities to connect with and encourage people.  Exquisite piano music and a hearty Singapore soup along with a tasty pineapple pastry made for a very special Friday cafe. After playing with neighborhood children during our afternoon Kids' Time, we stood together Friday evening in the pouring rain to pass out invites for the next events.  In addition to the generous barbecue on Saturday, they introduced crafts for the kids and the adults. Their great joy in the Lord touches the hearts of everyone they meet.  Sunday, we gave thanks for the Pastor Sam Kim's sermon which enriched our hearts including those yet to profess Christ.  In the afternoon, Greg Hager's Western Country concert drew many in the community, several for the first time.  We praise God that throughout his music, this simple message rang clear:  our need to know God and his forgiveness in Christ.  The team came prepared to help neighbors in Yamamoto, but God had a different plan in mind. On Monday, eleven of us worked a full day shoveling mud in the neighboring, farming town of Marumori.

2) On Oct.12, Typhoon 19 brought record-setting damage to several prefectures across eastern Japan.  Our work in Marumori began on Oct. 28 where 1,000 homes were affected by mudslides and flooding. The first day we met a woman who lost 4 of her neighbors because the flood waters came with no warning and no time to flee.  We have been blessed to work with a Christian group based there.  Working alongside town officials and volunteer groups, these men have the respect of the community to help plan the clean-up and rebuilding process.  While maintaining the rigorous schedule of Nozomi Center and Church activities, we have worked 9 days in Marumori, digging out mud from sewers, yards, farm greenhouses and under floor boards as well as ripping up flooring and hauling debris.  Volunteers have been bused south from Sendai, and the national news program ran a 30 minute special last week on the particular needs of Marumori, but the laborers are few and the clean-up is massive.  Likening it to the devastation of the 2011 tsunami aftermath, they are in the preliminary stages of clean-up.  Once the homes have been cleared of debris and mud and sanitized, then the rebuilding can begin. Many families remain housed at school gyms.  Temporary housing is being prepared.   WE ARE SEEKING VOLUNTEERS WITH CARPENTRY SKILLS TO COME FROM DEC. 1 TO DEC. 21 TO HELP WITH REBUILDING. IF INTERESTED, PLEASE CONTACT OPC DIACONAL ADMINISTRATOR, DAVID NAKHLA (david.nakhla@opc.org), OR RPC MISSIONS COORDINATOR, MATT FILBERT (proclaimchrist@rpmissions.org).

 Our prayer is that God will use us along with volunteers to aid and to console these people and that he will open a door for the gospel, perhaps opening a preaching station as we did in Yamamoto following the 3/11 earthquake and tsunami.

Please pray for the continuing daily work in Yamamoto:

1. That God will plant His Word in those who hear it through Bible messages each week. Thank God for interest shown by many through the Cooking Club, the English classes, Friends' Lunch, and the weekly Bible study. Pray that we will have time each week to do important follow-up and visitation.
   

2. That we can develop more relationships with young people throughout Yamamoto. Praise God for new kids coming to the Kids' Playtime.

3. Pray for new missionaries and funding for their work.

Finally, pray for Woody's continuing teaching of two biblical studies classes at the RPC's seminary, Kobe Theological Hall.

Thankful to be serving Christ,

Laurie and Woody Lauer