Bible Camp

Recently, we are able to attend a Bible Camp! Two families were able to go from our Church. The picture on the left shows us, the Katsumata's, and the Kogas. Camp was a combination of other Christian Churches on the island of Kyushu. All in all there were about 60 people there. It was in a beautiful place near Kuju Mountain. We stayed in a place that is a learning center for Japanese schools to bring kids to learn about Nature. So, we slept on bunk beds that were lined with tatami and so we put a futon mattress on top of the tatami. Interesting! We also had some "onsen" style bathing. Which we are starting to get used to. However, it was the first time that Karla Rae and I had bathed together. There was a time that I said, "Well Rae, I guess we've really bonded now. We live in the same bath together and now we've bathed together." Right then, we saw two ladies and one of them started to wash the other's back. I guess we haven't really bonded until we do that!!

At this camp there were four different countries represented. We had people from Japan, China, Korea, and USA. The Koreans that were there were a group that has spent the last few weeks helping another church in Japan. We had so much fun with them. It was really the first time that I have ever spent time Koreans. I quickly learned that their personality is similar to Americans. You know, friendly, outgoing, and know how to have fun! Here's a picture of them over to the right.

Another Korean that I got to know has been a Missionary in Japan for the past 2 years. She has picked up the language quickly and the people love her. However, she will be leaving Japan within the next year. Pray that God will show Kang-sahn His plan for her.

Camp was a great time to get out of our daily routine and be refreshed!