Central Area Charchas

Higasbi Ciinreii af Cbrist

Mukojima Church of Cbrist
Hagashima Church of Cbrist
Moriyatna Church of Cbrist
CEMTRML JMPMM
THAT THE LAND OF THE RISING SUN MIGHT COME TO KNOW THE RISEN SON
ROGERS &OPIE STEVENS - 429 S. W. 51, OKIAHOMA CITY, OKLA. .
HOWARD & KATHRYN DAVIS BOX 19 CHIKUSA, NAGOYA, JAPAN
January I96I
Dear Friends in Christ,
This is our last note before returning to Japan, and
we want to take this last opportunity to thank all of you
for a very wonderful year in the States.
This letter was printed before we crated the Multilith for
shipment to the field. Then placed in the envelopes as we
drove along the hiway to Los Angeles, where we take the Pan
American 'tourist class' to Tokyo. VJe leave Oklahoma City
January 7th and arrive in Japan about January 28th.
Bill, Judy, and our little grand-daughter came to Oklahoma
December 27th and accompany us back to California where
they will make their home and attend college.
As we begin a new term in Japan, we ask your continued
prayers, that God will give us many opportunities, and the
ability and wisdom to meet them.
Yours in Christ,
Howard & Kathryn Davis
Native Ministers
Evangelist - Mr. Maruki
Mr. Yanaguchi
Mr. Yoshida
Mft Kubota
Mr. Yuss
Mr. Sekioka
1-
a-
When Typhoon Vera struck Central Japan, we called on the churches ^-^5^
for emergency help and received much courage and strength from the wonderful
response* Again we find ourselves in an emergency situation. Though we can't
understand it, we can trust God and ask agqin for your prayers.
On February 5th about 7 P.M. the M.S. LAUST MAERSK, a 6500-ton
Danish freighter collided with an Ame^^an freighter just 18 miles out of
Yokohama, Japan and sank within-twentyy^minutes. Our freight containedt><f
our personal belongings, clothing, bedding, mission equipment- records-
and supplies, went down with the ship. Most of our things not destroyed
by Typhoon Vera were in the freight. Though we have very little left, we
can thank God that we did not come on the same ship with our freight as we
have every trip before*
Peibaps equipment and supplies can be replaced, but records, personal
possessions, pictures, and items of sentimental value are gone. One crate
contained our office everything fron typewriter to files dating back
through 1955. Files prior to that date were in the typhoon. Our mailing list
and address plates were lost, but 6ple Stevens/^is preparing a duplicate
for us from her files. The chances of such a loss is about one in a million!
Now beginning a new tern we have what we arrived with in suitcases
on the plane and what iteus we could salvage after the typhoon - which
leaves us with very little clothing or equipment to work with.
Edna and Kenny cried when we told then the news for ofte crate
contained everything they had received for Christmas; many of their toys only
received^then packed into the freight.
Our latest conference with the steamship company was that since
the ship was 18 miles out and in deep swift water, no salvage attempt would
be made. We were instructed to sutmit a claim to the company and contact
the insurance ccmpany in California. Such settlements usually take months
so we can expect no immediate help from that quarter.
We need help badly, but since customs and postage would be very
high on individual boxes, it would be better to receive funds designated
'emergence's^ This will enable our folks and the Stevens to assemble a
shipment of the most needed items in Oklahoma City for crating and shipping.
We have a ^month extension to get another shipment of supplies
into Japan and must begin right away to beat the deadline. Howard's father
has consented to take on the task of packing and crating.'^
Designated funds should be sent to: Rogers & Ople Stevens\
<^'429 ^ W. 5l8t Street )
<rr01cIahoma City, Okla.
CEIIT841. J8P6B mssm
mT THE LAND OF THE) RISING SUN MIGHT COliffi: TO KNOW THE RISEN SON
ROGERS & QPLE STEVENS - 1|29 S, W, $1 - OKLAHOMA CITY, OKIA.
HOWARD & KATHRYN DAVIS - BOX 19 - CHIKUSA, NAGOYA, JAPAN
Dear Friends in Christ:
Nagoya, Japan
February 13, 1961
We have been in Japan only a few days now and we regret that already we must write
back to you with bad news. It isn*t always easy to understand why things happen the way they
do but we can be assured that faith is tested and we must stand or fall by the strength
of our faith in Christy
On February ^th, the M.S. LAUST MAERSK,. a Danish freighter, collided with another
ship 18 miles from her berth in Yokohama, Japan and sank within 20 minutes. All our freight
went down with the ship. We have kept in constant contact ivith the company in the hope that
the ship would be raised and at least some of our things could be salvaged, but official
word today confirms what we had already heard that the ship is a total loss and apparently
no salvage attempt will be made.
Our freight contained our mission equipment, supplies, and records. In short, just
about everything that was not destroyed by Typhoon Vera went down with the laust ykersk.9 We
did arrive safely Yd.th vAiat we could bring in suit cases on the plane. One crate contained
our whole office, everything from typewriter to files dating back through the past five
years. The car and part of our summer,.clothing^ is coming on a later ship.
Since starting a new term, vre must replace the most needed items of equipment and
supplies However, personal losses .caiingfe;.T3e-"gep Some of the crates contained things
we had received from you'Ydlk'in the churches during this past furlough several nice quilts
made for us by the ladies in the churches - Tupper Ware from Christian friends in Tennessee -
gifts ftora the V.B.S. at Farwell, Michigan - a box from Truman, Minnesota - three new Bibles -
hand embroidered place mats with the names of friends at Central in Oklahoma City and on
and on. Daily we remember more and more things you supplied us with that represented hours
of work and sacrifice. All we can say to you is we are sorry, for this loss_lgaves us with
a sense of having fnUrd jp nnme wny.
***"- I ' iiaiiiiTrii I
cried when we told them the news, for one crate contained all the
We packed away their new toys with the promise tha.t they would soon hav
them in Japan. Though we have little left, we can give God thanks__that.JHje-..iiid^-Xi^ come on
the same ship with ouT-JSreight as we have ija avery^jbrdp befS^
Of course there will be an insurance settlement, but such settlements usually take
months - so we can expect no immediate help from that quarter. We do ha-y a six months
period in which to get another shipment into Japan and Howard*s father has consented to take^
on the task of crating and shipping. We need help, but because customs and postage on individ
ual boxes wovild be high, it would be best to receiv^-funds. designated for the *emergency*.
This would enable our folks and the Stevens to assemble a shipment of the most needed items.
Missionaries and military friends here in Japan are sending help that will tide us
over until the freight arrives which will probably be three or four months. Also there
are a few typhoon *left overs* that will help us get by on clothing.
We begin fo^ third. a set bapk^^'but we know God*s purposes are just and
He knows and" c&i'es"^-Rleaee-pr withriis^^tit'"Hls^ Word-and work in-Gen^te^l-Japan-wllk-gr-aw.^
Edna a
ChristmaF*gS^s7
Send funds to:
Rogers and Ople Stevens
U29 s, w. 51
Oklahoma City 9, Oklahoma
Your^ in Christ, / ^ ^y<r
HOWARD k lCATHRTff-mVIS(/
column 2^1-52^ ' March 23, 1961
^ ^ >C --^ao
^OS'OlSW's FBDM mvis PAMILT ^ > c^- "^
On Jfe-rch 19th, Howard Davis sent word from Hagoya, Japan that the shipping
(see story in Horizons for Pelsraary 18, I96I)
company had declared ship and cargo a total lossl and paid them^tjas $2,000 insurance
money. "He wrote; "God has iDlessed us so richly,..that $2,00^ v;ith the funds sent in
hy Christian^ is more tha,n enough to replace our mission equipment and supplies, and
the replaceable personal losses such as household effects and some clothing and such,'*.
Ihanfc you for your invaluable help in our time of need. We expect to receive equipment
needed somewhere around June 1stimtil then \?e,are mahing do." Forwarding address
is; h29 SW 51st, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma,
- 5
3?H1 U.WST WOBD ^
On Ajiril 4, 1961 Brother Davis wrote; "Word from otir forwarding secretaries*
Roger and Ople Stevens, is that there is sufficient funds to purchase, crate
/
ship to Japan the replacements for the shipment lost when the M, S. Laust
Maersk sank outside Tokyo Bay Fehruary 5th (everj'thing was a total loss). The shipment
will he on its way about April 15th with the much-needed equipment and supplies,
God has provided in a wonderful way, in our tiAe of need. We would like to express
pur heartfelt thanks to Horizons staff for their immediate action to put our need
before the churches (article appeared in issue of Horizons dated Behruary l8th).'^
The responses throxigh the pages of Horizons were quick and substantial."
Brother Davis added: "God provides in a way too wonderful for our eyes to
behold His blessings too great to n\anber. We pray that each one who shared this
loss with us has been blessed as we have been these past few weeks."
Iditor's Hote; We are eternal grateful to our readers for your response to
this special needsurely it demonstrates the strength of our world ifide fellowship.
GeHTHAL JAfAH m$$ICII
THAT THE lAND OF THE RISING SUN MIGHT COME TO KNOW THE RISEN SON
ROGERS &QPLE STEVENS - k29 S, We ^1 - CMMHDMk CITY, QKIAe.
HOMRD &iCATHRYN mvIS - BOX 19 - CHIKUSIL - mGOIk^ JAPAN
Dear Friencte in Christs
Nagoya, Japan
March 18, 1961
We have just finished reading all the letters that came -with the funds you folk
sent to help us replace our mission equipment and personal losse Wcrds fail us when we
express our true feelings but the expression of your letters make us realize
just how much God has blessed us with friends like youo
True, there vrere things lost that can never be replaced, but in their place is
something of far greater value; the joy and experience of the riches of God*s blessings
You folk have been so generous in helping us replace the lost equipment, that in the
least possible time the nev/ equipment will arrive on the field, and we will be able to
go ahead without hinderance.
We received $2000 insurance on the loss, but the further settlement with the Steam
Ship Company, if it materializes, will not be anjrbime soon At the present the case
is still in court between the two companies involved, trying to establish the blame
in the mishap. The insurance came much sooner than we had expected, because the ship
was abandoned and concluded as a total loss of ship and cargo.
Space would not permit us to list all the ones at home that are helping with the
buying, iiuirbing"special items' ofequipment, missiorf^supplies, personaGr'ahd household
effects, and the many other tasks involved, but we feel especially blessed to have such
faithful co-workers as Rogers & Ople Stevens to oversee the task of purchasing and
getting it together, and i^y and Norene Davis to get it into the crates and on its way.
To all of you who have come to our aid in such a wonderful way, all vfe can say is
thank you, but we mean it from the bottom of the heart, and we thank God for you, each
and every one.
Yours in Christ,
Howard and Kathryn Da^s
Dear Friends;
Brother Howard asked that we use this space to report to you on the Emergency TUnds
received. Thru Iferch 23rd we have written 2i{3 receipts totaling $5,95057o A complete
list of contributors and a recap of the disbursement of these funds will be sent to those
of you who have responded so generously to this Emergency Need just as soon as the ship
ment leaves Oklahoma City for Japan and we are able, to ccmplete our records.
IMPORTANT NOTE: We soon will be having new a^dressograph plates made of our Ifeiling
List - if you are not addressed correctly or do/wish to remain on our mailing list we
would appreciate being advised at once. Thank youI
God is Good - He is Merciful - and He has answered all of our prayers offered in
behalf of these most deserving Christian Servants, Howard and Kathryn Davis.
Rogers and Ople Stevens - Forwarding Secretaries
CENTRAL JAPAN
MISSION
THAT THc LAND Or THE RISING SUN MIGHT GOME TO KNOV/ THE RISEN SON
NAGOYA, JAPAN
MARK LAYMAN - JANET DAVIS
WORKING WITH C.J. MISSION
JUST ARRIVED
Mark Layman from Midwest
Christian College, Oklahoma
City, and Janet Davis also
from Midwest are spending
their siniuner vacation working
with the Central Japan Mis
sion. Mark raised his own
transportation cost and other
expenses to Japan through a
speaking tour among the
churches. Janet's expenses
were paid from our own per
sonal funds. (cashed bond^
Rogers & Ople Stevens took
them to the plane in Los An
JULY 1961
geles, and Mark's mother will
meet their plane when they
return to America the first
of September, in time for the
fall school term.
The idea of someone coming
out to work during the summer
is a new experience for us
but we are now firmly in a-
greement with the idea. It
involves a small investment
which is many times over re
paid in work accomplished for
the Lord and at the same time
gives the young person an in
sight into the Lord's work in
a foreign land. However, the
most valuable aspect is that
a person knows by experience
if he can adapt and can ful
fill the work of a missionary
before the churches go to the
large expense of sending them
to the field for a long term.
Mark and Janet's days are
filled from morning to night
with language study, Bible
teaching classes, preparation
for the services -- and the
dozens of tasks involved in
bringing the Light of Christ
to the people of Japan.
We realize more each day
how invaluable these two
young people have become to
the Lord's work here, even in
the short time they have been
CENTRAL JAPAN MISSION $
Missionaries:
? Howard & Kathryn Davis f
y Box 19 Chikuso f
/ Nagoyo, Japan i
y Forwardint Secretaries: y
& Rogers & Opie Stevens &
429 S.W, 51 Street 4
y Oklahoma City 9, Okla. y
in Centra] Japan.
Mark will be camp evangel
ist for the Nagoya Christian
Service Camp, as well as
evangelist in our summer
meetings. Both will be help
ing with the D.V.B. Schools
in the Central Japan area.
The young people of the
Nagoya Churches have really
accepted these two. Each
of the three week-day Bible
groups are growing steadily
under the direction of Mark
and Janet.
Starting the first Of June
Howard and Kathryn took full
responsibility of the Naga-
shima Church. Kathryn teach
es the childrens Bible School
hour. Howard the young peo
ples class then worship ser
vice. Mark and Janet teach
the Tuesday Bible Class.
^ We are really enjoying this
ministry' and closer contact
with the church, but it in
volves a great deal of time
to prepare so much teaching
and preaching material in the
Japanese language.
Upon returning to Japan, we
were very happy to learn the
ladies of the Mukojima Church
had not only continued Fujin-
kai (women's meeting) during
our absence but had also in
creased in number. Since then
they have helped to reopen
the Fujinkai at the Higashi
Chu rch.
Plans are being made for
Christmas gifts for the or
phans and needy families. In
the next few months the la
dies will bring used clothing
to be sorted for sizes and
needs, then it will be mended
and pressed ready to add to
some special gifts to help
bring happiness to others at
Christmas time.
Most of you who have shared
^his work with us over the
years will remember Kubota
San. May 28th he was married
at the Higashi Church. Yama-
guchi San, Minister performed
the ceremony. The reception
was held in the mission home.
The new bride is not yet a
Christian, but is studying
and preparing herself to be a
help to her husband in the
Lord' s wo rk.
1
Howard s Dad, Mother, Sister, Brother-in-law
Opie Stevens, Clark Kemp, and Jim Wilson.
Pecently we hac a visitor
from Korea. Mr. S. M. Chang,
minister of the DaiKyo Church
of Christ in Pusan. Mr. Chang
arrived in Nagoya late, so he
stopped off at a cafe to eat
before coming on to our home.
They were having a drawing at
the time and he won First
Prize! A refrigerator! He
sold it and used the money to
finance his visit among the
Japanese Churches. We enjoy
ed hearing him speak twice--
At the Higashi and Mukojima
Churches.
CENTRAL JAPAN MISSION
Kouard & Kathryn Davis
March 8 April 1961
Liberal, Kana, Pershlng Ave, $ 90.00
(/alley Center, Kana, U. Study Gp, 10,00
Afton, Okla, Adult Bible Claaa 20.00
Kepler, Kana, Miaa. See. 10.00
Joplin, Mo, Oilla Heights 15.00
Sheridan Lake, Colo. 30.00
Griauold, loua, Ledies Circle 13.50
Usa Dillard 5.00
Haskell, Texas 10.00
Mr. 8 Mrs. til. S. Ferguson 15.00
Mr. 8 Mrs. Roy Gent 10.00
Janet Davis 15.00
Nouata, Okla, Hillside 72.2<
Cjuobso, Mich, tilomen's Council 70.00
Rolla, Mo, First, C.U.M. Council 30.00
Mr. 8 Mrs. (/ernon Marshall 20.00
Mrs. Ray Smith 6.00
Miss Charlotte Herzel 5.00
Grove, Okla. 25.00
Neu Market, loua 25.00
Mulhall, Okla, S.5. 30.00
Mr. Perris Schaal 10.00
Mr. 8 Mrs. Eduln Thomas 20.00
Mr. 8 Mrs. Rufua Combs 10.00
Uhite Bear Lake, Minn. 20.00
Fred Reisuig 30.00
Okla. City, Okla, Antioch, Cruaader 7.25
Neu Marshfield, Ohio 10.00
Mr. 8 Mrs. Jack lilaid 20.00
lilichita, Kans, Riverlaun 25.00
Paul Paina 10.00
Canton, Ohio, Graenuood 25.00
Talala, Okla. 10.00
Arcadia, Ind. 15.00
Elkhart, Kana. 5.00
Pierre, S. Dak. 6.00
Sgt. 8 Mrs. Robert L. (ilashburn 10.00
Martelle, loua. Children's Dept. 16.59
Roy Pouara 10.00
Malvern, Ohio 25.00
Mr. 8 Mrs. Bob James 5.00
Miluaukie, Ore, Primary Class 6.31
Mr. 8 Mrs. Gordon Bans 100.00
Council Bluffs, loua. First 50.00
Cheyenne Itlells, Colo, C. 111. hi. 10.00
Cashion, Okla. 75.00
Sebring, Ohio 71.00
Duarte, First 5.00
Lock Haven, Penn, First 25.00
Okla. City, Okla, Forest Hill, C.V.P. 5.00
Ouosso, Mich. 5.00
Dodge City, Kans, First,
Loyal Daughters Class 10.00
Joan Lister and Mother $ 25,
Painesville, Ohio, Jr. C. E. 10,
Kugoton, Kans, Martha Circle 10,
Central Station, tii. (/a, Arnold's Creek 25.
Mission Receipts 812/8,
Balance March 1, 1961 2222,
ialance Receipts 83<i71,
00
00
00
M
89
AA
33
DISBURSEMENTS
Postage
Mission House 8 Furn. Repair
Gas 8 Oil
Office Supplies 8 Equipment
Transportation
Mission Equipment
Customs 8 Storage Charge
Car Inspection 8 Tag
Mark Layman Fund
Japanese Tax (For 2 years)
Car Repair
Children's Schooling
Salaries
House 8 Car Insurance
Printing Equipment
Shipping Charges
Churches Expenses
Photo 8 Supplies
Convention Expense
Telephone
Charge for Van Exchange
Total Disbursements
Total Receipts 8 Balance
Balance May 1, 1961
LI(/ING LINK
Hepler, Kans.
Colchester, 111. '
McKinney, Texas, East, Berean Cl.
Martelle, loua
St^artville, Minn, Pleasant Grove
Fred Reisuig
Arcadia, Kans, S.S.
Eads, Colo.
Okla. City, Okla, Airline
Tulsa, Okie, Highland Park
Okla. City, Okla, Central
Brooklyn, loua, Madison
Shattuck, Okla, S.C.hl. Miss. Org.
Carney, Okla.
Living Link Receipts
t 87,
136,
13,
A3.
1A7,
91,
132,
29,
100,
190,
60,
110.
288.
157.
3A7.
A7.
19,
13.
30.
16.
7.
82191.
3A71.
81279.
,21
,30
OA
92
99
67
80
A5
00
56
55
15
00
A2
22
33
A2
30
30
78
00
A1
33
92
8 30,
200,
10,
100,
10,
20,
30,
25,
61,
70,
100,
A5,
10.
120,
8 831,
.00
,00
,00
,00
,00
,00
,00
00
,69
,00
00
00
00
Sfi
69
Financial report an Emergency Funds will be sent seoaratelv. later.
CENTRAL JARAM
MISSION
NEWS
M-li; OF Ti-!E I-UN MIGHT COME TC^ KMOv/ TI-iE fclScM ZOv
NAGOYA, JAPAN AUGUST 1961
NAGA5HIMA TENT MEETINGS
Mark Layman brought a mov
ing and inspirational message
each night of the tent meet
ing in Nagashima. Tent meet
ings still remain the best
medium for reaching the gen
eral public in Japan. The
week began with a total of
one hundred in the children's
and adult's services the
last night the number had in
creased to a little over 250
Mr. Hattori (pictured p. 3)
conducted the children's
sessions, and Mark preached
in the adult services.
The afternoons were spent
distributing hand bills and
covering the Island with Jeep
and public address system.
1
n
n
MEZTING DVEF
TENT LOADED ON JEEP anU TRAILER
Special music during the
meeting was supplied by
groups from Mukojima, HigaKhi,
and Nagashima Churc in
addition there we song
specials in English and Jap
anese by Mark, Janet and How
ard, and a Cornet solo by
Howard.
Mark Layman and Janet
Davis will soon return to the
U.S. and back to Midwest
Christian College. At this
point we can't even imagine
just how we will be able to
get along without them. Three
Bible classes a week, help in
meetings, DVBS, Camp, regular
Mark Layman meeting the
trains and handing out hand
bills at Nagashima. During
the summer about 30000 pieces
were printed on the mission
Multilithand distributed in
the Central Japan area.
church services are but a few
of the hundreds of tasks
these two young people have
undertaken for Christ this
summer,
Their coming to Japan has
been a God sent blessing to
the Central Japan Mission and
is responsible for many won
derful victories for Christ,
True, there were expenses to
you and to us, but every cent
'invested' in these two young
Christian workers has return
ed ten times over in victory
for Christ, C.J.M. indeed
has been blessed this summer.
Among the visitors to the
mission during the month was
Velma Held pictured above on
(yauA
/\s I write ni.s I realize
that our busy summer is near
ly over. It has been one of
joy, happiness and sorrow,
Joy in the work and victories
for Ciirist. happiness in hav
ing our daiigiiter Janet and
Mark Layman here to share in
the Lord's work with us and .
sorrow .in the loss of my dear
ymo^tlier. In it all we'~Have
felt the leading, blessings,
strength, comfort and mercy
of God. f
About the end of September
we must take Kenny to the
Laptist Hospital in Kyoto for '
the removal of tonsils and
adenoids.- While in Ameri-ca
we thought he was outgrowing
the bad tonsil stage but now
have discovered that the damp
climate in Japan seems to be
responsible for his tonsil
trouble and the doctor says
they must be removed. Please
pray for Kenny at this time.
We ^Iso need your prayers
that we might be used of God
according to His will.
the train platform at Naga
shima Velina's visits over
the past years have always
brought a welcome and encour
aging 'lift' to the work of
the Central Japan Mission.
Isabel and Janet Littemore
stopped over with us for a
few hours on their way home
from Hong Kong. We enjoyed
their visit even tho short
Christian Service Camp
time usually comes in August
in Japan during the short
school vacation. This year
the Nagoya Camp was held on a
mountain top about forty
miles from Nagoya. By Bus,
Rope Way Gondola, Ski Lift,
and a mile walk, it took
about three hours to reach
the Youth Hostel where camp
was held.
Attendence was thirty-one
and was held from Tuesday
thru Saturday, There was one
confession of Faith.
The cool mountain top was
a welcome relief from the
sweltering heat in the City
below.
In addition tothe Japan
ese staff -- Howard was Camp
dean and teacher, Kathryn
Dietition, Mark Layman Evang
elist, Janet & Irene teachers.
HOWARD'S CLASS
Luring the recent heavy
rains we had some anxious
moments along with the people
of Nagashima. Ihougli the
building was not damaged
water surrounded it and rose
to just below the inside
floor level. Pictured here
Kathryn, shoes in hand wading
in to the building the fol
lowing Sunday.
"id
Mr. Hattori, a Christian
of the Nagashima Church, home
from Tokyo on vacation from
Waseda University teaches
S.S. at Nagashima
BAPTISMS
Pictured above is Mr Dosei
being baptized by Makoto Yuse
minister of the Mukojima
Church- He made his confess
ion at Christian Service Camp,
The following Sunday two
sisters of the Hirai family
were baptized, joining their
younger brother in Christ who
was baptized just before CamR
The next Sunday Mr. Mizu-
tani and Miss Sawa of the
Mukojima Church and English
Bible Class were baptized as
a result of the Evangelistic
meeting at Mukojima, That
meeting was held by Mr, Yuse,
Earlier in the day Kondo
Megumi of the Nagashima
Church was baptized. She
made her confession at the
Nagashima tent meetings.
fi.
MARK PREACHING YUSE INTERPRETING
4 GENERATION PICTURE TAKEN
JUST MINUTES BEFORE WE LEFT
OKLAHOMA FOR JAPAN IN JANUARY
On August 8th, Ka th ry n
received a cable from home
that her mother had passed
away. The shock came at a
time we least expected it
but then we are never quite
ready to give up our loved
ones, even though we know
they have a better life in
the arms of Christ,
For the Christian, death is
a confusing mixture of grief,
hope and thanksgiving: grief
in parting with a loved one,
the hope of eternal life
promised in Christ, and
thanks to God for the assur
ance that, our parting is only
a brief intermission before
we gather around His throne.
Truly, we shall cherish
her memory, and know we have
one more purpose in striving
harder to reach Heavens gate.
i;
CENTRAL JAPAN MISSION
Houard 8 Kathryn Davis
May 8 June 1961
Beaver, Okla. 8
Shreveport, La, Ueatvieu,
Opportunity B. C.
Dodge City, Kans, First,
Business & Professional C.
Dodge City, Kans, First, U. Council
Liberal, Kans, Pershing Avenue
Joan Boyd
Rochester, 111.
Haskell, Texas
Appleton City, Mo, Ohio
Lincoln, -rjns. Central, Prim. & Dr.
Mr. 6 l-ire. Liliver Pickett
Mr. & Mrs. Roy Gant
Sheridan Lake, Colo.
Osa Dillard
Mr. 5 Mrs. Vernon Marshall
Mr. & Mrs. Edwin H. Thomaa
Kapler, Kans.
liJashington, 111.
A Christian Friend
Purdy, Mo, Young People
Lincoln, Kena, Loyal Dinnere
Mr. & Mrs. U. S. Ferguson
Akron, Ohio, Kenmore
Sabring, Ohio
Afton, Okla, Adult Bible C.
Ashland, Ky, Beech St.
Cincinnati, Ohio, Montgomery Rd.
Mr. 8 Mrs. Rufus E. Combs
Mr. 8 Mrs. F. L. Strickler
Council Bluff, loua. First, U. Coun.
Grenola, Kans, Youth Group
Tinley Park, 111.
Fred Reisuig
Grove, Okla.
Joplin, Mo, l/illa Heights
lUeu Marshfield, Ohio
Mr. 8 Mrs. Jack Uaid
Mr. Perria Schaal
Mulhall, Okla.
Janet Oavis
Dhite Bear Lake, Minn.
NetJ Market, loua. Ladies Aid
Mrs. E, H. Scheffsky
Okla. City, Okla, Forest Hill, CYBS
Ualley Center, Kans, D. M. Study
Nouata, Okie, Hillside
Talala, Okla.
Ruaseli, Kens, Miss.
Pierre, S. Dak, Misa. Circle
Appleton City, Mo, Ohio, UBS
Deuay, Okla.
Dichita, Kans, Riverleun
20.00 Del City, Okla, Epperly Hta, UBS
8 25.00
Martelle, Icua, S.S. 15.57
10.00 Mrs. Ray Snith 6.00
Sciota, 111, OUBS 61.27
150.00 Avoca, Ark, S.S. 20.00
50.00 Mission Rsceipta 81335.20
90.00 Balance May 1, 1961
1279.92
20.00 Balance Receipts
AO.00
10.00 DISBURSEMENTS
29.20
5.75 Postage
S 61.59
25.00 Mission House Repair 110.69
10.00 Books 8 S. S. Material
M.A5
10.00 Transportation
89.93
5.00 Children's Schooling 90.00
20.00 Speakers 20.30
20.00 Rent on Nagashima Church Land
27.78
10.00 Paper for Printing
66.75
11A.30 Salaries
A66.12
20.00 Band Sau
90.72
7.50 Travel
51.59
9.90 Churches Expenses
49.20
10.00 Photo 8 Supplies
57.48
25.00 Car Repair
194.45
SiOO Reel Cases
23.90
15.00 Mission Equipment
155.35
10.00 Gas 8 Oil
100.31
25.00 Office Supplies S Equipment
33.25
10.00 Language Study
21.50
20.00 Tires
20.00
25.00 Customs Charges
25.84
6.32 Telephone
13.90
10.00 Loan to Mark Layman
42.45
30.00 Charge for Yen Exchange
11.00
25.00 Total Disbursements
81868.75
10.00 Total Receipts 8 Balance
2615.12
10.00 Balance July 1, 1961
i
20.00
10.00 LIUING LINK
30.00
15.00 McKinney, Texas, East, Berean
8 10.00
20.00 Hepler, Kans.
30.00
20.7A Eads, Colo.
75.00
10.00 Okla. City, Okla, Airline
82.01
5.00 Steuartville, Minn, Pleaaant Grove
20.00
10.00 Arcadia, Kans, S.S. 30.00
27.65 Fred Reisuig 20.00
10.00 Thayer, Kans. 50.00
10.00 Tulsa, Oklai Highland Park 70.00
3.00 Avoca, Ark, S.S. 30.00
50.00 Shattuck, Okla, Domans Miss. Org. 10.00
25.00 Living Link Receipts 8 427.01
25.00
NAGOYA, JAPAN
V
SEPTEMBER 1961
THE PAST PRESENT AND FUTURE OF BUDDHAISM
Vr
while traveling in the United States we often made reference
to a former visit to the 'Great Buddha' near Nagoya, and how the
idol was visited by large groups of worshipers.
A few days ago we visited this same idol again and found
everything in a state of decay, ruin, and disuse. There were no
worshipers the only evidence of a recent visitor was fresh
rice and tea before the altar, placed there by the lone woman
priestess on duty.
The next day we visited another formerly popular temple (*, ")
CENTRAL
Sacritariti:
JAPAN MISSION
Howard & Kothryn Davis
Box 19 Chikusa
Nagoya, Japon
Rogers & Opie Stevens
429 S.W. 51 Street
Oklohoma City 9, Okla.
CON^T FROM P.l
in the city. This too was
deserted, except for a remin
iscent artist painting a pic
ture of the pagoda. From
there we went to a nearby
'Woman Buddha* idol. This is
one of the few female Buddhas
in Japan -- this too was des
erted and the little idol
close by, its features worn
away by worshipers hands,stood
deserted. The smooth hole
where once a face had been
chizeled attested to the cent
uries worshipers had stood
before him, but now grass is
growing at his feet.
All this gives clear indi
cation of religion in Japan.
But this does not mean people
are turning fron their idols
to Christ, but only from their
idols. Japan is in a state of
prosperity and pleasure is the
main order of the day. The
churches attendence is very
low in view of the millions
lost in sin. The gains we
make are many times offset by
a loss on another front. To
watch the masses rush headlong
toward self destruction, heed
less of the redeeming blood of
Christ is heartbreaking and
many times the cause of dis
couragement -- but then we
remember the experiences of
Paul, Barnabus, the Apostles,
and even Jesus Himself -- then
we kneel and thank God He has
sent us to this lost people
with the precious Gospel story.
This picture was taken at
the August meeting of the
Higashi Fujinkai (women's
meeting) just a few days be
fore Janet left Nagoya to re
turn to Oklahoma and Midwest
Christian College. Janet was
the teacher at this meeting
and all the ladies commented
on the very fine lesson she
brought.
Irene and Edna are busy in
school again and Kenny is back
in Yochien (Japanese kinder
garten). Nearly every day some
of his friends come to play
and we hear Kenny speaking
with them in Japanese quite
wel 1.
Some of you may be inter
ested in knowing that Howard
and I have just celebrated our
22nd wedding anniversary how
quickly the time passes!
please continue to pray for
us and the Lord's work here in
Central Japan.
We heard Kenny singing a
new song the other day ----
For God so loved the world.
He gave His only Son,
To die on Calvary free.
From sin to seventy- three.
IP
1 ^
In August we packed a tent
& equipment into the trailer
and went to the mountains for
a three day camp out.
Mark and Janet have return
ed to Oklahoma City and Mid
west Christian College. Their
leaving has left us with a
sense of loneliness, but on
every hand is the evidence of
IT. -
their having been here and
served the Lord through their
summer vacation.
A large group of Christian^
members of their Bible Classes^
and Japanese friends were on
hand at the Nagoya Station to
see them off to America.
We would like to express
our thanks to Mark and Janet
for a job so much more than
well done, and for the invest
ment they made in souls in
Can tra1 J apan .
Sometime ago we promised to
print a picture of our grand
daughter in our news letter --
So here is Kathy Wells on her
first birthday. Bill, Judy, &
Kathy live in Los Angeles.
Someone once said,*A grand
parent thinks there is no
child quite like their first
grandchild.* Be that as it
may, Kathy has a set of proud^
'first time' grandparents on
both sides.
Though we can't see our
little granddaughter, we have
a constant supply of pictures
from parents and grandparents
in California. These, Kathryn
keeps handy to produce and
show at the slightest excuse.
A study in consentration
could rigntly describe this
picture of Kenny taken at the
Mukojima Church, but seems the
consentration is toward a toy
instead of the sermon!
/One of the Christian testi
menials at Mukojima meeting
Study and fellowship groups i
following preaching service./
tii-
Two new Christians - the
Hirai sisters come from a
Christian family. Their bro
ther, thru who's efforts they
were converted, is Howard's
language teacher.
CENTRAL JAPAN MISSION
Howard & Kathryn Oavia
July 1961
Glancoe, Ocla. S 25.00
Okla. City, Okla, Forest Hill CYBS 5.00
Nouata, Okla, Hillside 66.42
Eau Gallie, Fla, First, Prim. Class 17.92
Eau Gallie, Fla, Firat, Sr. High C. 10.00
Eau Gallie, Fla, First, U.M.S. 13.94
Grisuold, Iowa, Miss. Iilorkevs Class 10.00
Marysvilla, Tann. 8.00
Grows, Okla. 12.50
Fletcher, Okla, Miss. Fund 70.00
Elmira, Ore, T.N.T. Class 26.97
Elnira, Ore, OUBS 118.71
Haskell, Texas 5.00
Mr. S Mrs. Vernon Marshall 10.00
Mulhall, Okla. 15.00
Mr. Perria Schaal 5.00
Talala, Okla. 5.00
Mr. & Mrs. Lindsay Snith 138.00
Mr. & Mrs. Cil. S. Ferguson 5.00
Sabring, Ohio 3.00
Greenford, Ohio 2.00
Mr. S Mrs. Roy Gant 5.00
Sheridan Lake, Colo. 5.00
Mr. & Mrs. 0. D. Ensley 25.00
Liberal, Kane, Parshing Awe. 45.00
Mrs. Michael Mclntyre 50.00
Mr. & Mrs. H. 8. Siemens 25.00
Haplar, Mans. 5.00
Arcola, Miaaouri 30.00
Joplin, Missouri, Villa Heights 5.00
Mr. 8 Mrs. Edwin H. Thomas' 10.00
Mrs. J. C. Pitta 3.00
Liberal, Kans, Perahing Awe, C.Y.H. 15.50
Mr. 8 Mrs. Alvin Houke 10.00
Mr. 8 Mrs. Rufus E. Cnnba 5.00
Pierre, South Dakota, Miss. Circle 3.00
Miaa Charlotte K. Herzel 5.00
Grove, Okla, Ladiee Aid 30.00
Seneca,' Missouri, 0V8S 36.02
(ilhite Bear Lake, Minn. 10.00
Fred Raiswig 15.00
Newport News, Va, 24th Street 14.65
New Marehfield, Ohio 5.00
Arcadia, Ind. S 15.00
Uashington, 111. 4.50
Mr. 8 Mrs. Jack Uaid 10.00
Mrs. Mae Jackson 10.00
Mrs. Ray Smith 3.00
Joan Boyd 5.00
Russell 0. Hefty 35.00
Ashland, Ky, Beech Street, 0V8S 77.91
Mission Receipts $1090.OV
Balance July 1, 1961 746.37
Balance Receipts $1836.41
DISBURSEMENTS
Paper for Printing 8 Supplies $ 92.69
House Repair 28.20
Postage 57.61
Real Cases 19.00
Nagaahima Tent Meeting 88.23
Car Tax 42.56
Salaries 308.60
Gas 8 Oil 44.59
Language Study 16.12
Car Repair 8 Paint 66.95
Church 8 Sunday School Expensea 18.00
Transportation 32.28
Photo 8 Supplies 14.65
Telephone 5.56
Total Oiabursementa $ 835.04
Total Receipts 8 Balance 1836.41
Balance August 1, 1961 $1001.37
LIVING UIW
Okla. City, Okla, Draper Park $ 60.00
McKinney, Texas, East, Berean 5.00
Hepler, Kans. 15.00
Stewartvilla, Minn, Pleasant Grove 20.00
Arcadia, Kans, S.S. 15.00
Fred Reiswig 10.00
Tulsa, Okie, Highland Park 35.00
Brooklyn, Iowa, Madison 45.00
Living Link Receipts $ 205.00
CENTRAL JARAN MISSION
Howard & Kathryn Davis
Box 19 Chikusa
Nagoyo, Japan
Rogers & Opie Stevens
429 S.W. 51 Street
Oklahoma City 9, Okla.
THAT THE LAND OF THE RISING SUN MIGHT COME TO KNOW THE RISEN SON
Dear Friends in Christ,
I'The best laid plans" seems to apply to us these past feui weeks. It was our
intention to publish regularly the 'Central Japan Mission IMews' , but our sched
ule has been too heavy to get the printing done for this mailing thus we
go back to the 'news letter' this time. Our apologies.
liJe just received a 'tape greeting' from many of our friends who attended the
Midwest Christian Convention in Oklahoma City, It was a real thrill to hear
so many familiar voices. Thanks to all of you who sent greetings,
Typhoon season in Japan is over - and we are never sorry to see it go!! Ijje
suffered only minor damage to the mission property this year a few broken
windows - a small amount of roofing - fences down. All was covered by insur
ance, and though the insurance company hasn't made payment yet, the claims
have been submitted and are being processed. The amount was about $^0,
Kenny's tonsilectomy has not taken place yet. The day before he was to en
ter the hospital he caught a cold and ran a rather high temperature. The
operation was rescheduled, but someone made a mistake and we weren't notified.
For a third time it was rescheduled for mid November, but a chest cold this
time so a fourth scheduling! During this time Kathryn has taken all the
precautions to get Kenny through the one month waiting period after a cold is
cleared, but so far without success. The 'get well' presents and cards we
have received for him have been put away and will be delivered to him when
the operation is over, Ue appreciate the prayers you have offered in Kenny's
behalf --- perhaps these delays are God's answer, for certainly He knows best.
God has so richly blessed us, both materially and spiritually, but human-like
we stand in danger of accepting His blessings as a matter of course, forget
ting to thank Him for these things so necessary to life and the work here
in Central Japan,
Please pray for God's victory in Central Japan and the world.
Yours in His service,
Howard 8 Kathryn Davis
1. Central Japan Mission
Houiard & hathryn Davis
Box 19 dhikusa
iviagoya, Japan
2. Rogers & Dple Stevens
^ S.U. 51st
Oklahoma City, Okla.
3. The Davises arrived in Osaka, Japan on January 5, 1951 and in June
1951 moved to IMagoya to open the neu luork. The five months in Osaka,
working with the Osaka Christian Mission, served as a 'training'
period in preparation for opening a new field of service for Christ.
In April 1952 Bob & Hazel Chambers joined the Nagoya work. The
Davises and Chambers labored in the Central Japan area under the
name 'IMagoya Christian Mission' until the name was changed in 1958,
In 1959 the Chambers resigned the IMagoya work and returned to the
United States.
A. Since the Bible is necessarily the center of Christ's work it can
be readily seen how the Bible helps in mission work. However to
be more specific, English Bible Classes (with Japanese translation)
are one method to use the Bible to bring people to Christ. These
classes appeal to a certain group who's first interest perhaps is
English study but by using the Bible as a text the Uord has an
opportunity to work in their lives. These, many of whom could not
otherwise be reached, soon develops a desire for further study and
fellowship. This means coming into the regular church services.
Then through teaching some accept Christ.
The Bible, is of course, the only rule of Faith and Practice so daily
reading and study is stressed in all the services. The Bible thus
continues to teach through the week and not jjst on the Lord's Day.
The Bible helps in the mission work, not just as a help, but as
the center and source of what we preach and teach and is a con
stant reference guide to eternal life.
5. The outstanding specific need of the Central Japan Mission at the
present^ is an increase of living lirTk tb^^rihg^^bur living expense
allowance up to $300 per month. This lack causes a drain on the
regular funds sent to carry on the work and thus creates most
of our other needs. The living lihk addition of $100 per month
would bring our salary to $300 per month and take care of all our
general needs.
6. Future plans and goals for the Central Japan Mission are primarilly
to follow a plan for putting the churches an a self sustaining and
independent basis. First, before this can be accomplished, we
must help them overcome present building and land indebtedness
(most of the funds are already in hand).
CENTRAL JAPAN
THAVr THE LAND OF THE RISING SUN MIGHT COME TO KNOW THE RISEN SON
NAGOYA, JAPAN
KENNY'S TONSILLECTDMY
In our last news letter, we
stated Kenny's tonsillectomy
had been postponed again
however, almost immediately
after the printing the doctor
at the Baptist Hospital in
Kyoto telephoned and said to
bring him on to the hospital!
On November 14th Kenny had
his tonsils out. The opera
tion went smoothly and his
discomfort was really brief.
A word of thanks to all of you
for your prayers in Kenny's
behalf, and for the many 'get
well' cards and gifts. He
treasured each one!
DECEMBER 1961
CABLEGRAM
FROM
MARK AND JANET
A few days ago we received
a cablegram from Mark Layman
and Janet, announcing their
engagem en t.
Since Mark spent almost
three months laboring side by
side with the family in the
Lord's work we came to know
him very well --- and the
whole family is pleased with
the prospect of this marriage,
for these two young people's
lives are centered in Christ.
The proposed wedding time
is early June.
CHRISTMAS
Thanks to Jean & Jimmy Nutty
for a very nice Christmas gift.
Thanks to the Church of
Christ, Rosemead, Calif, for a
very lovely box. Some of
the contents will appear on
our table at Christmas time.
CENTRAL
Miitioflirias:
Secrttarifls:
JAPAN MISSION
Howard & Kothryn Davis
Box 19 Chikuso
Nogoya, Japan
Rogers & Opie Stevens
429 S.W. 51 Street
Oklahoma City 9, Okla.
Christmas time is always a
busy time -- but one filled
with the icy that can come
only from doing for others.
As usual, on Christmas day
a special service by the
Higashi Church will be held
at the large orphanage near
the church. The program will
have the complete Christmas
story on film strip and tape
recording, singing and treats
for the children (150 this
year). I'm not sure whether
the orphans or the church
people en.-joy the program the
most! The treats are the reg
ular yearly gift from the
ladies of the Ruth Circle,
Arcadia, Indiana.
The ladies of Kathryn's
Fujinkai have done a big job
of mending, repairing, and
sorting clothing for Christ
mas boxes.
On Christmas Eve Sunday the
Nagoya Churches will have 5th
Sunday Rally at the Mukojima
Church from two in the after
noon. This rally will combine
the regular rally with a
Christmas service.
In the evening the Higashi
Church will have a party for
the Sunday School children
followed by a candle light
service -- then all wi 11 go
caroling.
Since some have asked about
Christmas in Japan I decided
to use this 'korner' for that
purpose.
In Japan, as in America,
Cilhristmas has become very com
mercial. The department stores
are beautifully decorated and
very crowded with people re
sponding to the idea of ex
changing Christmas gifts.
When we first came to Japan
([Ihristmas cards were very hard
to find but now they are plen -
tiful. Some of the Japanese
Christmas cards have had pic
tures of shrines and temples
but this year, for the first
time, we have seen cards with
the entire front the idol of/
Buddha and inside a Christmas
greeting!
Of course, there is another
side the churches have pro
grams that tell the true story
of Christmas. Benevolent work
is done to show forth the love
of God in giving to the world,
Jesus, the greatest gift ever
given. And Christians through
out Japan are spreading the
message the angles gave the
shepherds so long ago--*Unto
you is born this day a Sav
ior which is Christ the Lord.'
NEED A CAMP MISSIONARY ? ?
Mark Layman
Box 9665
Oklahoma City, Okla.
FALSE PROPHET
f **
I
i1B
Cj.',
^7'f #0+ ^ h * A n iJtt
Above are two reprints from
a Japanese paper. This hoax
seems to have been several
years in the making. One pic
ture is a sign that says, 'En-
rtrance to the grave of Christ,'
/The symbol at the top seems to
' be the Jewish six point star.
The other picture is the man
who claims to be the grandson
of Christ.
The purpose of such a hoax?
Perhaps for what bit of recog
nition it gives. The only
recognizable thing in the
whole story and teaching is
the use of Christ's name.
A. SUNDAY IN NAGOYA
Numerous inquires of inter
est into how the missionary
family uses it's time has
prompted this sketch of a Sun
day's activities in Nagoya,
Perhaps only in detail does it
vary from the experiences of
your missionaries on other
fields around the world. How
ever it does not take into
consideration the weekday ser
vices, women's meetings, hours
spent answering letters, fill
ing special requests, person
al work, and the many other
duties of the missionary fam
ily.
One of the average Lord's
Day's in the work of the Cen
tral Japan Mission;
The day began just before
seven with breakfast, then
Kathrynfinished preparations
for dinner to assure its being
ready at the exact proper time
Howard loaded equipment for
advertising into the Jeep and
set out for Nagashima an
hours drive away.
For an hour the little red
Jeep squeezed in and out of
the narrow streets of the town
and out across the rice fields
while Kubota San announced the
church and Sunday school ser
vices over the P.A. system.
Arriving back at the church
just before ten O'clock, they
found the children already
gathering for the Bible class.
At eleven the church service
began and Howard preached us
ing John 3:36 as a text.
During this time Kathryn
and the children attended the
Higashi Church where Kathryn
teaches a Bible class. Alth
ough the lesson is in Japanese
Edna and Kenny seem to under
stand and contribute their
part in the class each Lord's
day.
At one fifteen Howard ar
rived back home in time for a
quick dinner, then with the
family off to a two O'clock
wedding at a large church
downtown. The wedding was two
young people of long acquaint
ance. Miss Hirai of the Muko-
jima Church and Mr. Hasegawa
who attended the Higashi
Church during his university
years. ( other Sundays this
time would be spent in bap
tismal services, preacher's
meetings, church rallies, vis
itation, or sometimes resting.
The wedding over, we took
the children back home, before
going on to the Moriyama meet
ing where Howard preached in
the four O'clock service. The
children do not attend this
service because they have
'American* S.S. during that
hour. Irene teaches because
she feels they should have the
training they would have in
America as nearly as possible.
Their S.S. is complete with
song service, lesson, activ
ities, and even offering.
Howard & Kathryn returned
home from Moriyama about five
thirty for a snack and a few
minutes relaxation before the
six thirty service at Higashi
Church where Howard preached
again. Usually Mr. Yuse, who
assists in the Moriyama work
returns home with us for sup
per and the chance to talk
over some of the church prob
lems before he goes on to the
Mukojima Church and a seven
O'clock service.
Following the Higashi eve
ning service, the folk come to
our house and we enjoy an hour
of fellowship to close the
day's activities.
Finally when the last one
has said 'Sayonara' (goodbye)
and gone down the hill, we
drop into the nearest chair
exhausted -- but happy that
another day of service to Him
has been committed --- the
gospel of Christ has spread a
bit further.
PREACHING CHANGES
At the last preacher's
meeting some changes were made
in our schedule that may be of
interest to you. Kubota San is
now in charge of the Nagashima
work, and Howard divides his
time between the Nagashima and
Higashi Churches as assistant.
Kathryn previously taught
Bible School at Nagashima but
now is teaching at the Higashi
Church.
The remainder of the sched
ules are the same. Mukojima
Church -- Yuse San, minister,
Higashi Church -- Yamaguchi
San, and Moriyama Church --
Howard.