Bishop Michael as former Bishop of Woolwich was instrumental in establishing the Japanese Anglican Church Group on Pentecost Sunday in 2015. The group is recognised as a Fresh Expression of Church – a new Christian community that takes shape outside traditional parish structures and are formed in response to the culture and needs of particular communities. For the Japanese Anglican Church group, this means creating a welcoming place where Japanese people living in and around London can hear the gospel in their own language and culture. Most of the attendees are not yet Christians but come with openness and curiosity.
Over the past ten years the group has offered monthly bible study, worship, and pastoral care, helping people explore faith and encounter the love of God in Jesus Christ.
Minako Hall, Licensed Lay Pioneer Minister in Southwark, who led the sermon and preached in Japanese said, “We also have occasional visits to museums and galleries to see how Christianity is portrayed in art and culture.”
The anniversary service reflected bilingual character, with readings and intercessions by members of the group in Japanese and English. The service was led by The Revd Eddie Scrase-Field, Vicar of St John, Blackheath and The Revd Delorine Green, Interim Minister-in-Charge at St Hugh, Bermondsey.
Minako added, “Many of the Japanese attendees are not yet Christian but came to show their support and appreciation for the work of the group. We were pleased to see that many people stepped forward to receive a blessing during the distribution of communion.
To make it more accessible and for those without a background in faith to understand, Minako’s sermon introduced the idea of ‘the connection of life’ in today’s digital society, using the image of grapes harvested in Japan’s autumn and the ‘fruitful vineyard’ from Isaiah 27 and John 15.
Giving thanks for the past ten years, the group are looking forward to another decade in ministry and friendship in the hope their fellowship will continue to be a place where Japanese people in London can experience God’s love and discover faith in Christ.
The group expresses their gratitude for the encouragement of Mother Delorine, Revd Eddie, Bishop Michael and all who joined the celebration.
