Happy New Year! Did you hear that the Hwangs will depart for their home assignment on Jan. 14? We’re taking Footsteps Forward by making progress in ministry and reporting back to our partners. One of our partners asked about our frequent trips. One requirement of International Ministries (IM) Global Servants (formerly known as missionaries) is home assignment. This was formerly called “furlough.” Furlough sounds like a break, and it is a break from the ministry done as “missionaries.”

Mrs. Sasaki and GVBC volunteers

Mr. Oumi, Ken, and Pastor Marques

However, the work done visiting supporters and speaking about our work on the field, is important because we share about what God is doing in Japan. Our partners are then able to pray more effectively for our Japanese friends. But, this ministry is mostly not restful (for Gordon). It requires teamwork to do thorough planning, with flexibility, and good execution to be successful. This also includes inviting current partners to continue or increase their financial support. Plus, we are meeting and engaging potential new partners for ministry in Japan.

Mrs. Takehana and Mrs. Sasaki

Koko san and Yoko san

We return to the US for about 2 months/year of home assignment during our 5-year commitment. By coordinating with Pastor Makito, Oasis Chapel, we want to maximize our service during the year and regularly report to our partner base.

Footstep 1 PNW part 1

Please pray for us as we begin our last mid-term home assignment before retirement from IM ministry. This winter, we will be in the US for about eight weeks from Jan. 14 – Mar. 11. We start in the Seattle area and visit Japanese Baptist Church (our home church), to say hello. But, earlier that morning, we will make a brief appearance at Lighthouse Christian Church. From there, we head to Portland and see some friends at Vancouver Avenue FBC.

Footstep 2 Fresno and SoCal

Winging our way south, we had to First Chinese Baptist Church Fresno and see friends including Michele Turek. Then, we’re looking forward to seeing some of our former short term missionaries at Gardena Valley Baptist Church, Feb. 8 and Judson Church San Bernadino on Feb. 15.

Footstep 3 PNW part 2

We are flying back on Feb. 17 and will speak at JBC on Feb. 22. The final two Sundays we’ll be at Anacortes FBC, Mar. 1, and Hope Church Des Moines, Mar. 8. Please pray for our travels and safety! If you are interested in meeting with us, please contact us by email: Hwang@internationalministries.org or Gordon’s temporary mobile phone: 206-888-0843

How are you taking Footsteps Forward in 2026? Let’s chat!

With Much Love,

Gordon and Lee Ann

Thank you

Thank you for your interest in God’s work in Japan! We are very grateful for the tremendous number of one-time gifts IM received on our behalf this past year. Currently, our support pledges show us in need of about $3300 more a month. We’re looking for 15 new partners to help with ongoing monthly support (or one-time donations). We need help us close the gap until the end of our term, in December 2026. If you feel called to partner with us for our last year, please follow the link or QR code:

Partner with us in sharing the Good News
in Japan!

or scan this QR code: