Assembleia de Deus J.MEAD

Stepping into the vibrant tapestry of Osaka, we find the Assembleia de Deus J.MEAD, a beacon of Pentecostal faith. This church, though seemingly a recent addition to Osaka’s spiritual landscape, carries within it echoes of a global movement with roots stretching back to the early 20th century. The Assembleia de Deus J.MEAD, part of a larger network of Assemblies of God churches, was founded in Japan in 1991 by Missionary Pastor Gessival Rui Freitas Barbosa. Pastor Barbosa, along with his wife, Joelma Watanabe Barbosa, arrived in Japan in 1992. They began their ministry in Saitama, later establishing the Assembleia de Deus J.MEAD in Osaka. The church is officially registered with the Japan Assemblies of God (JAG) and carries the designation BR-1. Initially, the couple faced hardships, working in factories to support their family and their daughters’ education. They held their first communion service with just themselves present, a testament to their unwavering faith. Through perseverance and dedication, they gradually built a congregation, sharing the message of Christ and witnessing the growth of the Assembleia de Deus J.MEAD. The church is now a thriving part of Osaka’s diverse religious community. Today, the Assembleia de Deus J.MEAD boasts 25 congregations across various prefectures in Japan, a testament to the dedication of Pastor Barbosa and his wife. The church’s influence extends beyond Japan’s borders, with branches in other countries. The Assembleia de Deus J.MEAD continues to serve as a spiritual home for many, carrying on the legacy of Pentecostalism in Japan. It stands as a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, and the global reach of the Pentecostal movement.