The Fikes are currently in a season of transition as they prepare to serve in Japan. They have spent the past few weeks traveling around the country sharing their vision for seeing an indigenous Japanese speaking local churches born in Japan. They are praising God for His provision in this season of their life as Ellie graduated from college and Nathan stepped away from serving at Re:Center Ministries to focus full-time on fundraising for the task ahead (currently 40 % raised).
As of this week, the Fikes have officially moved out of Louisville and are spending time with family in East Texas before heading to an eight month global training program at the end of August. It was heavy to say farewell to their family at Immanuel. They have been deeply encouraged by how the saints have responded to the biblical call to be involved in the Great Commission, and how so many who they have talked to share a love for seeing the Gospel go to the nations!
RCC just did their first VBS which was their first large, multi-day event as a church. They had 28 children/youth, 15 parents, and 7 additional volunteers participate! They were encouraged by how their members served and are prayerful that gospel seeds would take root! This month, their MSU college students return, which is a good portion of their membership. They are hoping for a "fresh batch" of students to walk alongside and disciple in this coming season. They will also soon be hosting a new round of membership classes and are looking forward to hosting their first elders retreat for a short weekend in the near future.
RCC Kids ministry kicks back off again next week and they will be sending off a brother who will be serving with CRU overseas for one year. Additionally, there are some difficult counseling conversations that the elders are working through with one of their families. They are seeking to care for this family well and hope that their hard conversations will lead to genuine faith and repentance.
Re:Center Ministries is an organization dedicated to the Christian belief that we have a duty to help the less fortunate. Their aim is to rely on the gospel to help prevent homelessness, provide relief to the homeless, and rehabilitate the homeless population by introducing them to a relationship with Christ. One way Re:Center does this is through the 6-9 month residential LifeChange Program. As participants, men participate in training designed to bring about holistic change in their lives.
Location:
Japan
Population:
117,205,000
Ev. Christian:
0.3%
Main Language:
Japanese
Spiritual Beliefs:
Buddhism
Bible in Heart Language:
Yes
The Japanese are very pragmatic in their spiritual beliefs. Most have very little private time, and they will not spend it on ceremonies, etc. if they don’t expect tangible benefits. Many Japanese are indifferent to and skeptical of established religion. On the outside, they seem to have few needs. However, many have become obsessed with materialistic pleasures, careers, and possessions.