We have been under a quasi-state of emergency since the New Year holiday ended. Last week it was announced that it would be extended until March 6. We are still holding services and our people remain faithful for which we are grateful. 

We read a news article recently that indicated Japan may begin to open their borders to businessmen and students in limited numbers. Please pray that the borders will continue to open and that new missionaries will be allowed to enter. 

The plum trees are beginning to bud. They usually bloom the end of February or the beginning of March. The picture above is from a past year. We look forward to this sign that spring is on the horizon.