Established in 1976, Japanese Fellowship Church started humbly. Pastor Takashi Matsuda, of the Lutheran Church, initiated this effort. He wanted to bring Christ’s word to the Japanese community in the Twin Cities.
Initially, the congregation met in a borrowed room. It was a nearby church that offered them space. They continued their worship services with a clear vision. The members desired their own sanctuary.
The Japanese Fellowship Church began fundraising. Early donations included small coins. Some gave just 25 cents. Yet, their persistence paid off. In 1993, they bought a small electric company building. This is the church’s current home today.
As a Lutheran church, they adhere to key principles. These include “Grace Alone”, “Faith Alone”, and “Scripture Alone”. The Japanese Fellowship Church holds worship services in both Japanese and English. They share the gospel of Jesus Christ. All people are welcome regardless of ethnicity or culture.
Let me tell you more about one of their pastors. Pastor Sekino began his ministry in Tokyo. He served at Tokyo Lutheran Church near Kabukicho. Kabukicho was considered a very dangerous place. For over 14 years, he worked with diverse people. His mission was to bring the Bible to those outside the church.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, he served as a chaplain. He was at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis. He worked in the COVID and psychiatric wards.
From 2021 to 2024, he served at Tsudanuma Lutheran Church. He also served as a chaplain in Japan. He was at Nakamura Clinic in Osaka and Hada’s Home Clinic in Kanagawa.
In 2024, he returned to Minnesota. He continues his work as a pastor and chaplain. He holds a Doctor of Pastoral Care. He earned it from Japan Lutheran Theological Seminary and Hong Kong Lutheran Theological Seminary. Pastor Kaz loves bringing Christ to people. He also plays bass guitar in a band. Plus, he trains at a martial arts gym.
The Japanese Fellowship Church offers various activities. Worship services are held every Sunday. There is a bilingual service in Japanese and English at 11:00 AM. An English-only service is at 10:00 AM.
Bible study occurs twice a month. It follows the worship service. Japanese food is served once a month. Often it is ramen. Lunch gatherings are available upon request. Contact Kaoru Thomson for details.
The Japanese Fellowship Church faces a challenge today. The church has extensive roof damage. Repair costs are unexpectedly high. Donations can help restore their space. Every contribution is important.
Consider attending the All Saint’s Day Worship on November 3rd. Members hold church cleaning and housekeeping events. These usually last for an hour after the worship service.
The Japanese Fellowship Church also hosts a ramen luncheon. Donations from the luncheon will be used for the church roof repairs. The monthly member meeting takes place on November 17th.
Remember the words of Psalm 121. “I lift up my eyes to the mountains – Where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” The Japanese Fellowship Church welcomes you.