Stephen and Kimiyo Canter: September 2009
September 6, 2009
Dear Friends, Prayer Warriors, Loved Ones, and Supporting Churches:
Summer has passed and we are rapidly moving into fall. The rice fields are nearing harvest, reminding us of what Jesus told the disciples in John 4:35, "Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest." The harvest field of Japan is truly great, and the labors are few. Pray that God will guide us to use our time effectively and that He will send more labors.
Since our last letter there have been three first time visitors. Our college students are a blessing. They frequently return and are interested in learning God's Word. This past Sunday, another college girl, Yaya-san, made a profession of faith.
We had an adult retreat August 10 and 11. On the first night, we broke up into small groups for a devotional and group discussion; both Steve and Kimiyo led a group. After returning home from the retreat, Steve received a call from one of his group members, Takeuchi-san. Steve was able to encourage him and help with his spiritual growth. The man promised Steve to read a chapter from Proverbs each day. Pray that his reading will encourage and help him with his spiritual growth.
Our church also held a one-day Bible program for grade-school children. Five children made professions of faith. Pray that they will be able to attend church. One of the girls wants to attend church but he father has not allowed her to do so. Pray that the father will change his mind, and that he will be saved. One of our church girls attended camp and made a decision for baptism. The following week, two more girls made decisions for baptism.
The bathroom construction has been going steadily. It has been rather slow with one person; however, Nagae always helps when needed. Bro. Rodgers helped one full day and Yoshida-san "just happened" to be there when third person was needed. Praise God for providing the extra help when we really needed it.
Kimiyo's dad who had pneumonia is back home and doing well, thank you for praying.
In His Service,
Stephen O. Canter
