Tokuden and Owakare

特伝
Tonight we had the long-awaited "Tokuden" at church ("special evangelistic event"). Many in the church had hand-delivered flyers to thousands of houses in the surrounding neighborhoods, and I invited all my students. We saw some new faces, so that was good. There was a Bible reading/enactment of the story of Jesus and the woman caught in adultery (John 8). Using this story, Pastor Yamazaki gave a sermon about God's unconditional love. The Gospel Choir (including me) sang "Near the Cross". It was good, and I hope many of the strangers will come to church again.

お別れ
Tonight, Ryan left for his 10-day sayonara trip around Japan. Then he'll come back for one day to collect his things and fly back to America. Of course I'll enjoy the freedom of having the small house to myself again, but I would prefer that Ryan stay in Yokkaichi. But America will be good for him. And here is a "farewell" shot: