New York

Praise the name of the Lord. Thank you for your intercessory prayers and offerings.

Across the vast land of the United States, news reports are highlighting an unusually high

number of natural disasters—such as heavy rains, floods, wildfires, and hurricanes—occurring,

possibly influenced by El Niño.

I watched the “Kokoro Gospel”concert held in Tokyo by projecting it onto a TV monitor to create a theater-like experience. It was a delightful viewing experience, featuring songs filled with the wonderful presence of God, as well as the skillful incorporation of anime and popular music. I also gifted tickets to my family in Japan, using the event as an opportunity for evangelism.

This month, an American man came into the service, saying that he just wants to pray. But he

participated in Communion and watched a digest video of the Kokoro Gospel concert. I could hear him praying tearfully. After about 30 minutes, he said he had to leave; I was surprised when he brought an offering and said, “I’ll come back next week.” I was able to give him a copy of “Prison to Praise” by Merlin Carothers. True to his word, he returned the following week and again spent about 30 minutes in prayer. I am grateful that the Lord uses our worship services in ways like this as well.

I visited Sister O, who has moved into a home for the elderly. She used to attend every special church gathering in New York, inviting Pastor Akimoto as a special guest with the mission team

members; she asked me to let her know the next time a special church gathering takes place. Since her care home is quite far away, I hope someone will volunteer to accompany and bring her to the event. We keep praying for the next U.S. team.

Please continue to pray that God will bring and build up core members and praise band members for our church and that we will hear and obey God’s instructions.

<Prayer Requests>

1. For the foundation of prayer and our obedience to God

2. For the ministry through Internet, AI, short videos, and praise bands

3. To deliver a message according to God’s will and the online services

4. For the gathering and strengthening of core church members

5. For the next U.S. team

6. For the operation of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, and for the works of salvation and healing

7. For cooperative relationships according to God’s will, specifically with the Jewish community in New York, and for open doors to minister in the U.S., Middle and South America, and Europe

8. For protection over our health and finances, and for safety protection from danger, accidents, crimes and terrorism

9. For our English communication skills to grow