I am back to Japan! I was able to complete my internship because of everyone’s prayers and support. Thank you from the bottom of my heart! After returning to Japan, I was exhausted for a while due to the heat in Japan. After staying in LA, I returned to my home church, Honolulu Christian Church, and reunited with my brothers and sisters for the first time in a while. Living in Hawaii for the first time in two years meant some changes in the environment, but most of all, I spent each day savoring the joy of being able to return home. Hawaii, the island where I was saved, and the brothers and sisters who called out to me, “Welcome back,” are a special place and family to me. I am filled with gratitude for each encounter, both the people I have known and the new people I have met. It was very hard to be away from my church family in Hawaii, but I hope that I will be able to return to Hawaii again! Thank you very much for your prayers and support. (Yu Hoshino)
Why are YU in North America?③
Finally, I have finished the internship. I’m currently staying in Hawaii. Hawaii is a special place for me as it is where I was led to church and met God. As soon as I arrived at the airport, I felt that I had come home.
From June 27th to August 13th, I attended the Free Methodist Retreat, the North American Holiness Retreat, and WIT24. Through various services and encounters, I felt that each participant loves God and is loved by God. At the Free Methodist Retreat, I was in the kid’s program and took care of kids. How cute are children! As I felt this from the bottom of my heart, I realized how difficult it is to raise children as a mother. At the Holiness Retreat, we sold EC goods, and the goods were more popular than we expected! Although I was busy with various services, I was able to sit in front of the Word and listen to a session with my brothers and sisters at WIT24. I was blessed to spend 3 nights and 4 days praising God with everyone.
God is the one who pulls us out of the mire, no matter how uncertain or despairing life may be. “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.” Isaiah 43:2
I am grateful that God is always by my side and understands me, whether I am happy or sad.
Why are YU in North America?②
Three weeks have passed since the internship started. After participating in the Central Conference 24, I have been working with the JCFN staff at the North American office on weekdays, attending online meetings, and seeing staff’s work. I have been spending fulfilling days because there is so much to learn. I evangelize for Japanese students in Southern California, attending youth ministries, and visiting Japanese churches on Sundays.
In the morning, I went to a quiet place surrounded by nature and meditated. It is important to calm down to be with God sometimes.
From next week, I will be participating in a three-week retreat and leadership camp. I will enjoy the remaining days of internship and serve the Lord, believing that the Lord will prepare and strengthen me physically and spiritually.