Chisato Fukuda in Ohio
During Memorial Weekend, I had the opportunity to participate in CC for the first time in many years. I wondered just how long it had been since I last attended, so I looked it up—and to my surprise, it had been 17 years.
There were joyful reunions with familiar faces, as well as new encounters and friendships. The participants represented a wide range of ages, and it was truly a blessing to fellowship with people who had gathered from all across North America. The messages by Pastor Umakoshi and Pastor Ichikawa on the theme of discipleship, the worship times, the baptism ceremony, sharing in small groups, and the many conversations in the hall and over meals—all of these became precious and heartwarming memories.
Looking back on my time at CC, I cannot help but sense the quiet flow of God’s grace. I heard that this year marked the 26th CC gathering, and I can imagine that since God began this ministry, there have been many challenges along the way, including the difficulties brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, despite these challenges, this stream of grace has continued without interruption. I am deeply moved by this, and I am reminded of God’s faithfulness. I am also grateful for the many people who have faithfully served behind the scenes, praying and dedicating themselves to this ministry.
Especially this time, I was encouraged by the opportunity to meet so many young people and witness their passion and energy. As I listened to their stories, I learned that many had traveled to CC because they looked forward to reconnecting with friends who live far away. Seeing them cherish the friendships that God has given them, encouraging one another, and growing together was truly inspiring. Their joy in knowing Jesus, the way that joy is shared with others, and how it is passed on to the next generation—through this continuing flow, I felt that I was witnessing what it means to “become disciples of Jesus.”
After returning to CC for the first time in 17 years, my husband and I were also deeply blessed and able to experience God’s grace in a profound way.
I am once again amazed that God continues to use CC to bring people together, encourage them, and nurture their faith. I pray that this ministry will continue to be richly used by God, and that His grace will be passed on from one generation to the next, and then to the generations that follow.
