The Tokyo 2010 World Mission Consultation and Celebration - May 11-14

"Mission 'To Everywhere from Everywhere' "

(to be published in the Spring 2010 Japan Harvest)

by Gary Fujino

“The evangelization of this world in our generation” was the watchword. They came from all over the world to talk about missions. University students were excited about getting the gospel to those who had never heard. Church leaders and overseas agencies mobilized to cooperate in penetrating heretofore unreached peoples with the saving knowledge of Christ and his kingdom. The global Church, growing and progressing, was moving toward a more unified effort, and many viewed the common goal of seeing the Great Commission fulfilled within their lifetime as being near completion. Many believed that the gospel would soon be preached to all nations (Matt. 24:14) and that this would beckon the commencement of the eschaton (“the end times”), ushering in the Lord’s imminent return.

The Japan Bible Society spearheaded the 150th Anniversary of Protestant Missions in Japan celebrations in Tokyo and Yokohama, July 7-9. Participating organizations included the Japan Evangelical Association, the Nihon Revival Association, and the National Council of Churches. Several thousand people attended the celebration on the evening of July 8. About 50 overseas guests also attended the events. During the last day of these celebrations, JEMA was thanked as the organization that represents most missionaries in Japan. As President of JEMA, I had the privilege of accepting a plaque on behalf of past and present missionaries to Japan.