Church Planting in the Big City

Job Description

OMF works in the Greater Tokyo Area of 35 million people, in Sapporo in the north of Japan with nearly 2 million, and Sendai in Miyagi Prefecture with over 1 million people - together this accounts for nearly one third of the population in Japan. We seek to evangelise and disciple people and see them brought into a local church community.

OMF's Vision is "By God's grace we aim a vibrant church impacting every community." Church planting is a core part of that vision. We have some OMF led church plants; others work with Japanese churches seeking to plant daughter churches; and some help facilitate Japanese church planters.

Life in a big city in Japan can be very frenetic - there are always people around. On the other hand it can also be lonely as many Japanese people are busy and it can be hard to get to know them. But by taking initiatives and joining in with things happening locally you can slowly build relationships with people and seek opportunities to share your faith.

Responsibilities

- Building relationships with Japanese people, often using your gifts and interests.
- Reaching out in the neighbourhood ina a variety of ways, such as cooking, craft or English classes; evangelistic dinners, children's events, etc.
- Joining in existing music, sports, games and other groups to make contacts.
- Leading seekers' Bible studies.
- Discipling new believers.
- Preaching and leading small groups.
- Training new believers methods of reaching out to and befriending non-Christians.
- Basic administrative tasks.

Qualifications

You should have experience in personal evangelism and discipleship, and have a good grasp of biblical truth. You will usually be expected to have two years' Bible college training, or the equivalent. Previous church ministry experience is also helpful.

Initially you will study for up to 29 months at our Japanese Language and Culture Centre in Sapporo. Upon graduation you will have a period of training for a further 2+ years with a senior missionary or Japanese pastor when you can learn about and be involved in different aspects of church life in Japan.

Living Situations

- You need to be teachable - we seek to plant churches which fit their local context. That means a willingness to learn from Japanese people and do things in a culturally acceptable way;
- You need to be flexible - things may not always go as you hope so it is important to be willing to change where necessary;
- You need to be sensitive, patient and approachable with a good sense of humour.
- You will probably have to live in a smaller house or apartment that you are used to.