Ever since the massive earthquake and tsunami hit Japan, so many volunteers have come to Japan to help with disaster relief efforts.  We have been blessed to host several teams from all over the world!  Not only have they helped so many in needs, but they have also encouraged many believers that are trying to minister to Japanese people.  Michael and I often talk about the ways the volunteers have ministered to our family.  They have gone to the disaster areas with us (it can be overwhelming when there are only three of us that visit 100+ temporary housing units), taken care of our sweet Luke (it’s nice to have extra arms to hold Luke when his parents are busy running around), worshiped with us (God has touched us and spoken to us through reading the scriptures, singing praise songs, and praying as a group), and encouraged us to keep up the good work (sometimes we need words of affirmation).

We have experienced the importance of working as a team and we pray God will continue to send us those who have a heart for Japan.

Bangkok Team- They are actually from Canada and America but all of them attend the same church in Bangkok, Thailand.  We had them for a Taco Dinner (which they LOVED) at our house.  They helped with our youth group, kids English classes, and Fall Festival!  Since Michael lived in Thailand when he was young, he really enjoyed talking about Thai culture and places!  We would love to visit Thailand as a family someday!

Hawaii Team- They are from Olivet Baptist Church in Honolulu, Hawaii.  They worked so hard in the disaster areas, and they were so gracious to help clean up at my grandparents’ house.  During our time together, I found out that one team member’s daughter had graduated from DBU and we had known each other!  What a small world!  My dad also told me that my parents had visited this church twice as a young couple!  We look forward to visiting the church and seeing everyone again!

Thank you all for coming to Japan and touching so many lives!