Osaka, Japan: Despite the delay caused by a snowstorm, the Japan District successfully held its District Assembly from 7 to 9 March 2025. Pastors and laypeople from 69 Churches were represented in the District Assembly.
The assembly began with an opening message from Regional Director Kafoa Muaror. His message included a loving and humble introduction, which gave the district great hope for building a strong, rich, and fruitful relationship with the region. His message was a great start to the gathering as it aligned everyone’s hearts in unity.
The first order of business was the re-election of Rev. Tsutomu Dohi as District Superintendent. In the face of a rapidly declining population, a worsening economic recession, and the increasing number of churches without pastors, his leadership has been characterized by love and patience, offering support across different areas. The delegates joyfully affirmed his continued leadership and praised the Lord during his leadership. He led under the theme, “Your will be done,” consistently guiding people to seek God’s will above all else rather than being swayed by human anxieties and distractions. Believing that God’s strength is revealed in weakness, they have renewed their commitment to support him through prayer for the next two years and to engage passionately in the mission.
At the beginning of the District Assembly, two Filipino pastoral couples were introduced. Rev. Celso Pantano and his wife, Mary, who will serve at Minami-Urawa Church (FNCF), a congregation mainly composed of Filipinos, and Rev. Simeon and Marilou Sierra, who are working toward officially joining the Japan District with their church in Koga. Additionally, it was reported that new church plants are emerging in new areas. As Japan becomes more diverse with increasing foreign residents, God’s mighty work is indeed unfolding, allowing them to share the blessings of being a global church. This global connection within the Church of the Nazarene will surely be a key factor in overcoming Japan’s challenges.
Dr. Gustavo Crocker held an ordination service at the end of the District Assembly. He gave a very encouraging message about “Living Through the Storm,” which is the message that the people needed to hear. He shared, “Too often, they focus inwardly on domestic challenges, neglecting to set sail for the other shore. In doing so, we allow Jesus to remain asleep in the boat. However, as social inequalities widen and more people grow weary, now is the time for the church in Japan to set its sights on the other shore and move forward in its mission. About 30 years ago, the General Superintendent came to the District Assembly as a compassionate ministries coordinator, working with the Japan District to raise and use funds for missions in Thailand. His powerful words, spoken from a foundation of long-standing friendship and trust, were received as the very words of Jesus, filling us with encouragement and renewing our passion.”
After the message, he ordained three pastors: Rev. Ayako Nakamura, Rev. Kiyoshi Izu, and Rev. Rebekah Mitsuyama. The district leadership rejoices with them as they enter this new chapter of their ministry. May they continue to serve with passion and faithfulness, always guided by the Holy Spirit. As they shepherd their congregations and spread the Gospel, may they be strengthened by God’s grace and never lose sight of His calling. May they be instruments of His love, bringing hope and transformation to those they serve.
Please pray for the Japan District and DS Rev. Dohi that they will overcome the challenges they are facing and move toward the other shore with God’s help and in solidarity with brothers and sisters in the Asia-Pacific Region.
