When you first visit a church, you may have many concerns. This page has been created to help put those concerns to rest.

Why go to church？

The people who come to church are all different, and each person has their own reason for coming to church.
Many of the people who come to church have been baptized and are living as Christians. Christians believe that Jesus Christ is our Savior and the son of God.

In Christianity, we believe that we are born with a sin nature. Sin is not just about breaking the law. Sometimes we betray people, break promises, say bad things, or hurt others without realizing it. People basically think about things from their own perspective. The Bible teaches that ignoring the existence of God and living a selfish life is sin. Sin is living our own way instead of God’s way. We cannot go to heaven in our sinful state.

About 2000 years ago, God sent his son, Jesus Christ, to the world—God in human form as a baby. While healing the sick, Jesus Christ told people that they could be rescued from their sinful life and given eternal life in heaven by believing in him. Unfortunately, but according to God’s plan to redeem sinners, Jesus’ actions and teaching was seen as blasphemy against God, and he was crucified. However, three days later, Jesus rose from the grave and appeared to his disciples, commanding them to go around the world and tell everyone that they could go to heaven if they repent and believe in him.

All of this was part of God's plan and had been prophesied in the Old Testament even before Jesus appeared. Jesus took the place of all people's sins and was crucified only once. Therefore, anyone who repents of their sins and believes in Jesus will have their sins forgiven.

The church is a place where we learn about God’s forgiveness, grace, love, and mercy to sinners. God and Jesus want to have a relationship with all people! We learn how to start and live a new life and remain faithful until we reach heaven.

For those who do not believe in God, they can only rely on themselves. However, for those who believe in Jesus Christ, they can share their burdens with Jesus Christ and walk with a light heart. Even if you are at the lowest point in your life, you can live with hope.

This may be hard to believe. Most of the people who come to church now were like that at first. However, as they came to church, they came to understand their own sins and that they needed to be saved. Sometimes it takes a while to understand, but eventually, baptism is performed as a symbol of a new life. Of course, there are also people who stopped coming to church because they couldn't believe. It is up to you to decide whether or not to believe. We will never force you to believe.
If you have questions like “What is life?”, “Why was I born into this world?”, or “Is there really a God?”, please come to church. We hope that it will help you in some way.

FAQ

Here, we have compiled a list of questions that are often asked by first-time visitors.

I'm going to church for the first time. Do I need to make a reservation?

No, you do not need to make a reservation. If you have any concerns, please feel free to contact us.

I'm not a believer, but can I still participate in the service?

Yes, anyone is welcome to participate in the service. Please feel free to join us.

Is there a fee? Do I have to make a donation? How much should I give?

There is no fee. Donation is a way of expressing gratitude to God and is not compulsory. There is no set amount. If you would like to make a donation, please put the amount you feel like giving in the donation box near the shoe rack quietly and unobtrusively.

What kind of clothes should I wear to church?

There are no particular rules. You can come in your everyday clothes. Church members often wear somewhat formal clothes as a way to show respect for God.

What do we do at church?

We sing hymns, read the Bible, listen to the minister's sermon, and pray. Even if you don't understand everything, please feel free to join us.

Do I need to bring anything?

If you are attending for the first time, please feel free to come empty-handed. At our church, we have copies of the three different books we use: the “Kogoyaku” (modern Japanese translation) of the Bible, and three different Japanese hymnals. We also have English and Chinese Bibles and English hymnals.

I don't know any hymns. What should I do?

You can listen and enjoy the inspiring words and beautiful melodies and join in as you desire.

Is there a parking lot?

There is a parking lot on the church grounds that can hold more than 10 cars.

Is it okay to bring small children?

Yes, it is fine to bring small children.  They can play quietly in the bench beside you.

If you are concerned, there is a separate room available where you can watch the service through a window. Please let us know if you would like to use that room.

I'm in my 20s, are there people my age?

There are a wide range of people at the church, from young people to older people.

Is it okay for someone like me to go to a place like a church?

The church is open to everyone, whether you believe in God or not. Please feel free to come and visit.

I'm a member of another church. Can I still participate in the service?

You can participate in the service regardless of your denomination. Holy Communion (which we hold once a year) is basically the only service when only members can partake.

Will I be subjected to any kind of persistent solicitation?

We believe that it is not God's will to force one's faith on others, so you will not be subjected to any such solicitation.
Of course, if you are interested, there are opportunities to learn, so please talk to the minister.

Can I learn about the Bible?

Of course! Please join us for Sunday worship service. At that time, please let the minister know that you would like to learn.

Can I talk to the minister?

Yes, but there are some weeks when it is not possible to talk to the minister at length. If possible, please contact us in advance using the contact form.