Please pray for the ministry in Camarillo as economic realities have resulted in immensely difficult and painful decisions. Early last week, the leadership of Celebration - Japanese American Christian Chapel voted to eliminate one pastoral staff position in an effort to reduce expenses and ensure the church's future ministry. The decision was the result of a yearlong evaluation of resources, efforts at cost reduction and an examination of the church's vision and direction.
Effective immediately, the two congregations - English speaking and Japanese language departments - will join together for Sunday worship. Japanese language ministries will be enfolded together with the Celebration ministry and continue under the care of the Japanese language elders, the Celebration leadership and Pastor John as the newly solo pastor.
Japanese language (Nichigo) small group ministries will continue with some pastoral guidance. It is hoped that these small groups will have the cohesion to continue as they have over the years. Some adjustments are expected to occur.
Pastor John will be actively seeking assistance from any who can offer ministry support in the Japanese language, ranging from translation responsibilities to small group development and maintenance.
Our prayers are with Yamamoto sensei and his family as they seek the Lord's guidance regarding their next steps. We have great affection and appreciation for Pastor Yamamoto whose service to the church began in February 1996.
Rev Yamamoto pictured above right (blue shirt)
Please also pray for the church family as this reflects a major change in the dynamic of ministry and fellowship. Pray that the church will have a future that will bless and encourage those who attend and participate.
Effective immediately, the two congregations - English speaking and Japanese language departments - will join together for Sunday worship. Japanese language ministries will be enfolded together with the Celebration ministry and continue under the care of the Japanese language elders, the Celebration leadership and Pastor John as the newly solo pastor.
Japanese language (Nichigo) small group ministries will continue with some pastoral guidance. It is hoped that these small groups will have the cohesion to continue as they have over the years. Some adjustments are expected to occur.
Pastor John will be actively seeking assistance from any who can offer ministry support in the Japanese language, ranging from translation responsibilities to small group development and maintenance.
Our prayers are with Yamamoto sensei and his family as they seek the Lord's guidance regarding their next steps. We have great affection and appreciation for Pastor Yamamoto whose service to the church began in February 1996.
Rev Yamamoto pictured above right (blue shirt)
Please also pray for the church family as this reflects a major change in the dynamic of ministry and fellowship. Pray that the church will have a future that will bless and encourage those who attend and participate.
