Support-raising for missionaries,

Support-raising for missionaries, a new concept here, is slowly gaining recognition in churches. A Buddhist-Shinto-dominated nation, Evangelicals make up only 0.5 percent of the population, and need motivation to further the Kingdom. 'Aspiring missionaries usually work for years and save up before joining the field,' said Emerita Sakai, who co-leads the work with husband Nobuya. Traditionally churches have been on the receiving end - in terms of funds and personnel but 'we are slowly educating them to financially support their own missionaries,' she added. The Sakais, who have been in Japan since 1995, have seen gradual progress in their work with churches. Both have visited at least 12 churches in Ishikawa, the prefecture in which they live. 'We do not have much financial support - but it is regular,' Emerita said, adding that churches are faithful in giving, despite signs of a flagging economy. Please pray for:

1. A Japanese-speaking recruit to join the team full-time.
2. New recruits: One lady pastor going to Israel; five who joined Love Europe summer campaigns and one in Love Mozambique.
3. Nobuya who will be speaking in a church in Osaka on 30th August, 1998.

OM’s role in the Church is to mobilise people to share the knowledge of Jesus and His love with every generation in every nation. OM pioneers and leads initiatives to redeem lives, rebuild communities and restore hope in over 110 countries.