As I look back on my three months in Nagoya, Japan, I am filled with gratitude for the ways God has been so faithful, guiding us every step of the way. When I first arrived in this vibrant city with the intention to serve as a pastor and missionary, I assumed I knew what ministry was all about. However, the reality of the mission field in Japan quickly taught me that there is so much more to learn. This journey has been a tapestry of divine appointments, deep fellowship, and life-changing lessons—much of which came through joining an incredible internship group.

A Divine Appointment in a Foreign Land

Our mission began with a simple yet profound prayer: to find a church community where we could connect, grow and learn.. In Japan, where cultural and linguistic barriers often seem insurmountable, the search for a community was both challenging and inspiring. As we navigated this new landscape, God led us to a Connect and Community Church. There, we met Pastor Nelish—a warm, welcoming shepherd whose heart for Japan resonated deeply with our own calling. His gracious invitation and the openness of the community made us feel as though we had finally found our place to connect and learn.

Discovering the Internship Group: A Learning Community

One of the most transformative experiences of our mission was joining an internship group comprised of pastors and missionaries from various backgrounds and nationality. Initially, I believed that years of pastoral training would equip me for any situation. However, the mission field in Nagoya revealed the nuances of contextual ministry that no textbook could fully capture. The internship group became our classroom, a dynamic environment where theory met practice.

In our weekly sessions, we explored topics such as discipleship, cross-cultural communication, and effective outreach strategies tailored to the Japanese context. We discussed how to bridge the gap between Western methodologies and Japanese cultural sensitivities. It was through these rich, sometimes challenging conversations that we began to understand the true essence of ministry: to learn, adapt, and serve with humility.

Discipleship in Action

One of the most powerful lessons from this internship was the importance of discipleship. We often talk about making disciples, yet here in Nagoya, we learned that discipleship is not a one-size-fits-all approach. The Japanese culture places great value on community, respect, and subtlety, and effective discipleship must resonate with these principles. Through intimate discussions, practical workshops, and shared experiences, we began to develop discipleship strategies that are not only biblically sound but also culturally relevant. These moments of learning reminded us that even as seasoned pastors, we remain students of Christ, continually growing and adapting in our walk with Him.

Mission Work in Japan: Strategies and Challenges

Japan is a country with a rich history and unique cultural identity, and reaching out to its people requires sensitivity and innovation. Through our internship, we learned that mission work in Japan is as much about building relationships as it is about sharing the Gospel.

Our group shared experiences from the field: how a simple act of kindness in a local café led to a deep conversation about faith, or how a community event opened the door for lasting relationships with Japanese believers and seekers alike. Each story reinforced the idea that mission is not just about the numbers or the schedules; it is about genuine human connection and the transformative power of God’s love.

The Blessings of Fellowship and Community

One of the most heartening aspects of our internship was the fellowship that blossomed among us. In a place where everything felt unfamiliar, the bonds we formed with fellow missionaries and pastors became a source of strength and encouragement. We spent hours learning together, praying together, and even worshiping together—each moment weaving us closer as a community of faith. This camaraderie was a constant reminder that we are not alone in this mission; we are part of a larger body of believers, united by our shared commitment to serve God and reach the unreached.

A New Understanding of Ministry

Reflecting on these three months, I realize that ministry in a mission field is a continuous journey of discovery and learning. Even as pastors, we are continually challenged to step out of our comfort zones and embrace new ways of serving God’s people. The internship group provided us with a safe space to ask questions, experiment with new ideas, and learn from both successes and setbacks. We learned that humility is not a sign of weakness, but a pathway to deeper understanding and effective ministry.

The experience also underscored the importance of being open to God’s leading—even when it defies our expectations or preconceived plans. Community Church, and our encounter with Pastor Nelish, were clear reminders that God orchestrates every detail of our journey. It was in those moments of openness and willingness to follow His guidance that we truly experienced the transformative power of His presence.

Equipping Future Missionaries

For anyone considering a mission in Japan, or any cross-cultural ministry, I cannot overstate the value of immersive learning experiences like this internship. It is not just a program; it is a crucible for refining your approach to ministry. You will be challenged, inspired, and, most importantly, equipped to make a meaningful impact. This internship has so much to offer—it opens your eyes to new perspectives, deepens your understanding of discipleship, and provides practical strategies for effective outreach in a complex cultural setting.

If you feel called to serve in Japan, I encourage you to seek opportunities for learning and fellowship. Look for ways to connect with local churches, immerse yourself in the culture, and learn from those who have already paved the way. Let the Holy Spirit guide you into communities where you can grow both personally and ministerially. Remember, every step you take is a step of faith, and each lesson learned brings you closer to fulfilling God’s purpose for your life.

Moving Forward with Gratitude and Purpose

I left Nagoya with a renewed passion for ministry, armed with practical insights and a heart ready to serve. The lessons learned here will continue to shape my approach to discipleship and mission work, reminding me that true ministry is a journey of continual learning, adaptation, and faith.

To all who are walking this path, whether in Japan or elsewhere, I pray that you, too, may find opportunities to grow, connect, and be transformed by the love of Christ. May your journey be filled with divine appointments, enriching fellowship, and the unyielding assurance that God is with you every step of the way.

This journey has been a testament to God’s faithfulness in guiding us through uncharted territory. It’s a reminder that, in the mission field, every challenge is an opportunity to learn and every connection is a seed for future ministry. May these reflections inspire you to embrace every moment of your journey with an open heart and a willingness to learn from the Master Himself.