I have begun studying at TCU to gain experience as a Christian within the Japanese context. Since I desire to be a minister in Japan, I’d like to take advantage of the opportunities presented at this school. I want to be able to understand the Japanese language, culture, and society to better prepare myself for the Gospel ministry in Japan. I hope to make many new friends, explore Japan, network with other Christians in the area, and see the work of the Holy Spirit. Part of the reason I specifically decided to come to TCU was to improve my Japanese ability and learn Christian vocabulary in Japanese so that I can be equipped to teach and preach more efficiently. I’m praying that I can be an encouragement to the Christian community in Japan, and that I can serve wherever I will be the most helpful. Learning theology alongside Japanese students and other internationals who have a shared burden for the church in Japan is an exciting prospect, and I pray the Lord guides me along a path that will glorify Him most!

He shall have dominion also from sea to sea, And from the river unto the ends of the earth. Psalm 72:8

"My wife and I were called to Japan in 2021, but we needed help figuring out how to get there. When I came across TCU and immediately felt like this was the direction I needed to take. I made several connections with the faculty during my research, but the one thing that stuck out to me was their mention that TCU is home to many denominations; I loved the idea of being surrounded by others who have different perspectives than my own. My experience at TCU so far has been one filled with love from the community. Not only have I made impactful friendships with the students, but I have also considered some faculty members to be as close as family. My wife and I have been surrounded by loving individuals during some hardships. It isn't easy to imagine myself and my family outside of the caring individuals we are surrounded by. No matter where you are, it is essential to be surrounded by community - we have found community here at TCU.

Currently, my wife and I want to continue planting a church community in Japan. Of course, God can change our plans at any moment, but we love the Japanese people and feel called to help them grow into their calling as followers of Jesus."

One specific reason which gravitated me to TCU was the idea of how people from different denominations co-exist in harmony.

What I expect out of TCU is to get to know people from diverse backgrounds and faith walks and perceive a new approach to Christian living. I enjoy indulging in the various customs and Japanese ways of life. I am certain that were I to be called to another nation for missions and be required to adopt the traditions and values whilst accustoming myself to a whole different family of believers, I believe I could do it without any difficulty thanks to my training here in Japan and at TCU. I strongly feel that this university will enable me to discern and engage in the right way of life, while equipping me to passionately obey the voice of God and pursue His call for my life. Most importantly, I hope to be better prepared and be thorough in response to the Great Commission and find ways to serve God and His people particularly through the church practicum. Every day, I look forward to seeing what God has instore for me here at TCU and in Japan.

Some of the things I love most about TCU are its small, close-knit community. Attending school here doesn't feel like you’re just another face in a crowd it’s more like being part of a family. I also enjoy being a 30- to 45-minute train ride from Tokyo!

I began learning Japanese about three years ago after feeling God's call to be a missionary here. Currently, I'm studying theology because I believe it's where God wants me to be. At the same time, I've been blessed with opportunities to practice filmmaking during my time at TCU, which aligns with my previous studies in film.

So far, my experience at TCU has been amazing. It feels like I've finally stepped onto solid ground after being lost in a storm at sea.

The classes are a fun challenge, and the professors and staff are incredibly kind and supportive. I'm a member of three clubs: the Tea Ceremony Club, TCU Dreamers (an entrepreneurial club), and I also serve as the president of TCU Studio, our film production club.

In the future, I plan to start a film ministry, combining my passion for storytelling with the skills I've developed in filmmaking. My hope is to use this ministry to creatively and meaningfully share God's love and message with others.