Japan

Ministry Description

The ministry of Word of Life Japan began in 1982 under the leadership of Yoshito and Hisako Kato. Today, it continues under the direction of Kelly and Kimberly Smith, with a passionate focus on reaching and discipling the next generation of Japanese youth.

In Asia, the English language can be a powerful tool for ministry. One of our initiatives is called SYME (Studying Youth Ministries in English), a unique English-language discipleship program that not only helps each student grow in their confidence with English but more importantly helps them to take their next step with Jesus as they study the Word of God. Beyond the classroom, English also serves as a powerful tool for sharing the hope of the gospel through events such as workshops, camps, and English cafés—spaces where meaningful relationships are formed and the message of Christ is shared.

Word of Life Japan is committed to partnering with and supporting the local church in Japan. To that end, we are developing engaging resources and organizing training events in Japanese to help the church pursue its God-given purpose and vision. We praise God for all He has done since 1982—reaching thousands of Japanese students with the gospel—and we trust Him for all that He will continue to do in the years to come!

Country Description

Japan is located in eastern Asia. It is an island chain between the North Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Japan. With an area of 378,000 sq km, slightly smaller than California, it is home to 127 million people. While Japan is a nation with religious freedom it remains one of the most difficult mission fields for the seeds of the gospel to take root. Today, less than 0.5% of the Japanese population identify as an evangelical Christian. The two main religions are; Shinto (focused on nature and ancestor worship) and Buddhism (centered on meditation and escaping the endless cycle of rebirth and suffering). Despite the vast number of Buddhist Temples and Shinto Shrines found throughout Japan, many Japanese people today are more atheistic in their daily lives. However, we know that Buddhism, Shintoism and Atheism can never satisfy the true need that we all have in our hearts! Only the life transforming gospel of Jesus - His death, burial and resurrection for the forgiveness of sins can give these amazing people hope, purpose and joy! So, pray with us that God will use, Word of life and His church to see revival in Japan!

Contact Information

Word of Life Japan
6-16 Enoki-Cho
Tokorozawa, Saitama
Japan 359-1104

Phone: (81) 0429-41-2699
E-mail: woljapanoffice@wol.org
Web: https://www.woljapan.com

Career Missionaries

Jodi Davis

Kazu & Mana Shiobara

Taka & Lindsay Shirakawa

Kelly & Kim Smith

Jack Thompson

Karina Thrush

Short-Term Missions - Cross Cultural Interns and Launch

Xavier Eugene