Last week, twenty-two Independent Baptist missionary women from all over Japan gathered for a retreat at Camp Raphayada.  It was a wonderful time of fellowship and encouragement.  I (Kim) have had contact with many of these ladies, but have never had the privilege of meeting many of them in person until last week.

Instead of a speaker, each lady shared a ten-minute testimony during our meeting times. These were such a blessing.  It helped us learn more about each other and we gained encouragement as we realized that we all have the same struggles unique to our field of service.

One afternoon, we took a “field trip” to a nearby town famous for its udatsu roof lines.  I have visited this town many times, but it was fun to share it with ladies who have never been there.  I also saw some things that I have never seen before!

My sister-in-law was able to make it back from her stateside trip in time to be with us.  My mother-in-law came for a few hours to meet the ladies and share a little of her experiences. She came to Japan in 1965.  It took them two weeks by boat to arrive! She had four boys, five years old and under! Tim is the oldest. He well remembers that boat ride!

Thank you for your continued prayers for us as we serve in Japan.

~Kim