After the 3.11 quake we almost cancelled the CPI National Conference. I am glad we didn’t. This biennial conference was bigger than in 2009! On November 9-11, nearly 340 missionaries, pastors, and laypeople gathered (along with over 100 children). The theme was “together” church planting in the wake of the quake. Many of those in attendance were from the Tohoku disaster areas or had worked there in ministry this past year.
“We were struggling hard, but we got new encouragement, courage, and vision through CPI.” 2011 Conference Participant
The conference was a time of spiritual refreshment, inspiration, encouragement, and challenge for those attending. This was the first time the main sessions were from an all Japan cast. These speakers, who have been extensively involved in disaster response ministry, including two pastors from the disaster area, challenged those attending to be gospel-centered in all they do and to be compassionate like Jesus as the church extends to new areas. The main sessions used a new small group format for integration and application.
The conference had 20 Core Training sessions on evangelism, discipleship, small groups, prayer, worship, and other church planting training. Several sessions on personal care and support for those in ministry were sponsored by JEMA Member Care.
Over 50 leaders met with CPI leaders where the leaders listened to them answer this question. “Over the next 2-5 years, what are some practical ways to advance God’s Kingdom to increase the number of disciples, leaders, and churches in Japan?” We are still compiling the answers which were extremely creative and helpful.
As well many attendees felt that now is a great opportunity in Japan. Over 90 missionaries and 30 Japanese reported they plan to start new ministries, groups, and churches in the next 2-5 years. They believe that the church as a sending agency would plant more churches. This would extend Christ’s great compassion to Japan and beyond. Pray that God would make that happen.
Upcoming ministry will be Church Planter BootCamps in various regions (Kanto Nov 5-7, 2012) as well as more support and resourcing of church planters. The dates for the 2013 CPI Conference were set for November 11-15.