Message from the Japan Representative
I am very pleased that River City Christian Mission (RCCM) has been established by the work of God. This work began in Lewiston City, Idaho, where a church there embraced and cared for Japanese foreign students. When former foreign students – a Japanese couple – arranged to be married in Japan, a River City Church pastor named Ron King visited Japan as their guest in January 1999. On that occasion, as I had been requested by the couple to perform their marriage counseling and wedding ceremony, I had the good fortune of becoming acquainted with Pastor King. Pastor King wished to begin sending his best missionaries to work in Japan; so upon his request, I and my church International Bible Fellowship (IBF) began supporting this mission in September 1999. Missionaries Otto and Steve were dispatched to do the RCCM work of supporting the local church and presiding over wedding ceremonies. In addition, they began assisting at elementary school English classes as well as following up with the foreign students. So as the ministry gradually expands, I hope to see God’s blessings upon the development of this mission.
Shoichi Ino
Japanese Representative of River City Christian Mission
Senior Pastor, International Bible Fellowship
Message from the U.S. Representative
”Living in Japan for 15 years was such a rewarding experience. As a missionary sent by River City Church in Idaho, I performed Western-style Christian weddings, was on the ministry team for IBF church, and taught English conversation.
The Japanese people are wonderful, very helpful, and hospitable. Japan is a beautiful country. While it was a challenge to learn enough of the language to perform weddings, it was rewarding to do so for Japanese couples. I also developed my ability to preach at IBF. It was a joy to see people’s response to the gospel and see the church grow.
I have since returned to the U.S. and today am serving various departments in The Refuge Church of Walla Walla, Washington.”
Steve Breithaupt
U.S. Representative of River City Christian Mission