December 2010 Newsletter

Merry Christmas from the Mercers! December, 2010

I can honestly say that this has been the most exciting year ever for Satomi and me. We have watched our kids blossom into young adults with a sense of destiny and purpose in their lives. And we have seen God continue to bless and grow the church in Yokosuka.

James has just finished his tests for this term and entered a two-week vacation from college. Alishea is also busy with school, work, church and friends.

We will be visiting Satomi’s parents in Nagoya the final week of December, and returning to Yokosuka on New Year’s Day (while there is less traffic).

Please accept this “green” Christms card from us with our blessings: DOWNLOAD CHRISTMAS CARD HERE…

Talent Show

We had our second annual church talent show last Sunday evening and many friends came to visit. For some it was the first time to visit a church. Christmas season is a great time to tell Japanese people about Jesus. For the last two Sundays our building has been full, with over 90 in the mornings. There were even more for the Christmas lunch party and talent show last week.

Thank you!

I can’t express how wonderful it is to see the Lord answer the prayers of my kids. Last month James received several special financial gifts from people, some anonymously and some with heartfelt words of encouragement. Because of this, he was able to pay his college tuition for another semester.

We really do thank God every time we remember you.

First Victory Weekend in Yokosuka

Thank you for your prayers for our first Victory Weekend. It was a great success and six ladies in our church (see bottom row above) are walking closer to God in Yokosuka. Not only that but our leaders (see the top row above) were stretched and challenged too. It was a time of growth for the whole church and an important milestone in the discipleship process at the Yokosuka Church. Special thanks to Kaku Sager (not in the picture) who came out from Shuzenji to help teach, counsel and translate.
Please continue to pray for us as we prepare for our first men’s Victory Weekend, planned for February 4th and 5th. My hope is that each of these precious believers will be inspired and empowered to minister to others and disciple the next generation in Japan for Jesus Christ.John 8:36 – So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.

Blessings to you from us

May the Lord bless you this holiday season as you remember all the wonderful things He has done.

“The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.” (Numbers 6:24-26)

How to become a financial partner in our ministry to Yokosuka, Japan

You can send a one-time or monthly financial gift to help support our work in Japan by clicking on the following link and following the instructions:

https://admin.everynation.org/giving/?P=010229

Our mission organization, Every Nation, is a member of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountibility (ECFA). All contributions are tax-deductible in the United States and we are committed to the highest level of non-profit financial accountability.

The Mercer Family

Ray, Satomi, James, and Alishea