Church Assignment 2005/6 (Part 2)
I think it is wise for me to finish this topic soon, otherwise, I might just procrastinate some more and forget about it altogther! So, where were we?
Well, the last time I mentioned about how the church service is like; I wish to talk about the congregtion now. The attendees of Tokyo Union Church are generally foreigners. The church was set up in the early 20th century to cater for the growing needs of expatriates, missionaries, military personel, academics, business men, etc. Everyone is so "foreign" over here. Every little detailed is run almost like a church in the West, especially like those in America. I totally don’t feel like I am in Japan at all. Mostly, there are a lot of Caucasians and Eurasians. Even the pastor preaches in an attractive accent! I think it is so cool.
There are loads of good looking people around. I know it is inappropriate, but I get my share of eye candy every week now. (cheeky smile) Moreover, some of them have very prestigious line of work too: embassadors, military personnel, models, big-buck-making-businessmen, etc. 2 Sundays ago, we even had a professional magician coming up to present the message for the kids that day! (now, now… stop drooling)
Talking about kids… the children here are so cute. Yep! Mixed marrigaes… the way to inhibit this world with a beautiful future generation. Seriously, the kids here are SO cute! BoiNu, one of the freshmen, is also assigned to this church with me. She is assigned to help out with the Worship Daycare and Sunday School… lucky her! She get to play with them almost all the time!
I am assigned to help out with the Youth Ministry for now. So far, I have yet to really get my hands into anything yet as I am still looking for those persons in charge. I was initially asked to help out with ministering to the Japanese converts (a minority in this church). Well, how can I put it? Dr. Franklin asked me to help out with explaining Christianity in Japanese to converts who were attracted to come to the church and may not fully comprehend all as everything is done a in English.
I discussed this with Pastor Bruce and he said that all will take time to settle. He is a very cool guy: sporting and fun! He is from a Baptist/Southern Baptist background, who preaches really clear cut sermons. Pastor Craig, the associate pastor is also very kind and caring too. I will get to know more of them at the upcoming Family Retreat the church invited BoiNu and I to attend on Friday the 21st.
There is a lot to learn at TUC. I have to admit it is a huge change from the Japanese churches I have attended in the past 3 years. It definately is weird not using Japanese or going through the usual Japanese formalities in church which I have picked up the past 3 years. Everything is a learnng process and I am looking forward to learn and serve in my year at TUC.
That’s all I have to say about church for now. I will let you guys know more in the future.
