-by Ken Board, missionary to Japan

The older I become, and the more I become involved in ministry, the more I am thankful for the work of the Mission Office Staff. Here are seven reasons why I am thankful.

• They are friendly. Every time I go there, I am greeted warmly. One of the ladies even baked me a pie!
• Their advice is helpful. When I was trying to solve a serious problem, advice from Bro. Konnerup guided me in the direction of the best solution.
• They are efficient. Whenever I ask for their assistance, they are quick to comply with my requests. When the Kokura church applied for a loan for our new building, the staff processed the loan immediately.
• They are encouraging. Every month, Bro. Konnerup sends a letter of encouragement that always seems to arrive when just when I need it.
• The Missionary Care ministry is excellent. Recently I had a chance to witness this with my own eyes when Bro. Bender and I visited Missionary Bill Neel in the hospital just a few days before he went home to be with the Lord.
• They keep me connected with my missionary friends. I have not seen some of my good missionary friends in years, but the Mission Office sends regular updates that keep me informed about their health and prayer requests.
• Their spiritual ministry is a blessing. When the Kokura church celebrated its 30th anniversary, Bro. Konnerup was our guest speaker and brought two excellent messages. Steve Bender and his wife, Jenelle, were our special speakers for this year’s Summer Camp, and their ministry was a great blessing to the churches in Kyushu.

(By the way, I show my thanks by sending monthly support to the Mission Office.)