“Seekers of peace anyone is welcome anytime.” That is what the Tsurumi Green Church says to all. Let me tell you its story.
We are standing before the Tsurumi Green Church. It is formally known as the Japanese Christian Church Tsurumi Green Church. The church’s journey began humbly in 1977. It started with family gatherings at the Yamashita family home.
In 1978, the Yamashita home became a church school. About seven to eight children gathered there. A new chapter unfolded in 1979. Services moved to the Tsurumi Bowling Alley on Sunday afternoons.
By 1985, the church had grown. It established a mission in Yokozutsumi. It was known as the North Osaka Church Tsurumi Mission. In 1986, the church expanded its activities. It offered English conversation classes. These were held at the JOY Club.
The mission relocated in 1990 to Yokozutsumi 4-chome. Sunday services began in 1991. The church also offered English and flower arranging classes. Preparations for a dedicated church building started in 1996.
Construction began in February 1999. The building was completed in July. The dedication ceremony occurred in September. The Tsurumi Green Church celebrated a milestone in 2009. It paid off its building debts.
In 2012, it changed its name. The Tsurumi Mission became the Tsurumi Green Church. This marked a fresh start. In 2016, pastors Rev. Yoshimi and Kazuko Kitao retired. Rev. Tatsuo and Kaoru Nose became the new pastors.
To arrive here by subway, take the Tsurumi Ryokuchi Line to Yokozutsumi Station. Exit through Exit 5. Walk along Tsurumi Street. Pass the Tsurumi Police Station on your left. Turn left at the golf shop traffic light. You will see a Nordic-style church building. This is the Tsurumi Green Church. The walk takes about five to seven minutes.
The Tsurumi Green Church extends an invitation. They wish you a Merry Christmas. They also offer New Year’s greetings. They believe that Jesus, the Savior, was born for you. The Tsurumi Green Church held a Christmas service on December 22nd. The Kimura brothers performed an original song called Rhythm. Children also presented a Christmas celebration. Nineteen children and four parents attended. They enjoyed a magic show and games. They watched a mini-movie about the real Christmas story.