Q. Who is this ministry for?
We are seeking to serve the church in Japan (any church) by providing a place for kids and adults to connect. Any student from fourth grade (elementary school) through high school can attend, and any adult who is willing to undergo child protection training may attend.
Q. How will it help my church?
In addition to providing your students with a community of teenagers who love Jesus, your adult volunteers will be better equipped to interact with the young people in your church and to help make your church a safe and welcoming place for young people to worship. We firmly believe that faithful, gospel-centered discipleship of young people can bring growth and renewal to a church.
Q. What languages will be spoken?
Connect is not an English language ministry. It will be conducted in Japanese with translation into English so that English speakers may participate.
Q. How is this different than hi-b.a.?
While we love and want to promote the ministry of hi-b.a., we are different in three ways:
We start at 4th grade or 10 years old.
We are seeking primarily to build relationships between the adults from various churches and their students
We provide translation for English Speakers
Q. Why does it start at 4th grade or 10 years old?
The onset of puberty is beginning around the age of 10, so from fourth grade on, non-parental adult mentors become more and more important.
Q. When is it?
Twice a month on Friday evenings in order to leave room for other youth and local church activities.
Q. Who is leading it?
Connect will be led by MTW’s Next with volunteers from various churches and hosted by Mustard Seed Christian Church in Imaike. Please contact us with any questions or comments.