The passing of my grandma yesterday has left me pondering about the meaning of life as well as why there are such a small percentage of Christians in Japan (thought to be around 0.5%). The history of Christianity in Japan dates back to 1500s, however according to the OMF site, Christian was banned in Japan in 1626 since there were so many Japanese Christians being persecuted and elements of Buddhist and Shinto elements were introduced into Christian worship.
I found it very difficult to find a church when I was in Japan, and it took at least a month to find a Baptist church which was in the city (Kanazawa Baptist Church). Congregations are normally very small (around 30 people) but I found it so comforting that I could worship with them! However compared to Australia, there is definitely a lack of resources in Japan in terms of study materials, support groups, evangelism and much help is needed.
Most Japanese people are atheists and only older generation are Buddhists. Japan is a country with strong traditions and culture which tends to be hard for them to take Christianity as it is. It is difficult to start a conversation and talk about Christianity, however the interesting thing is most weddings in Japan now are conducted in Western style: meaning: bible reading, prayer, hymns except the sermon. Please pray for a breakthrough in Japan!
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