January 2, 1954

Dear Friends,
This financial report is the first we have sent out to those who have
contributed to us, or through us, for the work in Japan. It is just one result
of the new policies announced last year of more direct contact between the
missionary and those who support him. We plan to issue like reports at least
twice a year and we hope you will offer any suggestions, criticisms or correc
tions, for the local churches are the missionary societies and we are your
servants for Jesus' sake.
We have had a wonderful half-year since returning home in July. The
reception everywhere has been most warm and encouraging, and our visiting has
been a real blessing to us. The climax of the year came at the Christmas sea^n
just past, which we spent at home for the first time in seven years.
The experience in school at Cincinnati Bible Seminary is rewarding in
many ways, and we are thankful also for this. The faculty and students have
been helpful in many ways. Everything is working together for good.
As 1954 begins we look forward to returning to Japan next summer. Soon
we must begin making reservations, ordering things and packing. We go into
the unknown future with hope and firm faith, for how could we doubt God's care
and goodness after His great demonstrations to us in 1953.
A number of people have inquired anxiously about the future of the Mission
since the recent death of Mrs. Cunningham, the co-founder. Those of us who
have been handed the Torch and the added responsibility appreciate this con
cern and earnestly request your prayers for us always.
The policies we intend to follow were announced about six months ago with
Mrs. Cunningham's consent. The funds in America will be administered by the
trustees for maintaining our living annuitants, an emergency repatriation fund,
keeping up our present buildings and building new ones. The property in Japan
is taken care of by the missionaries over there with the purpose of turning it
over to the Japanese churches when they are ready to receive it. The Tokyo
Chrigtian^will continue quarterly, for the present at least. The missionaries
will receive their living-link support and offerings directly, as the Cunning
hams did in the beginning. The Tokyo Bible Seminary will continue with Andrew
Patton as p^sident and the missionaries and Japanese preachers cooperating in
administration. Funds may be sent directly to the Seminaiy or through any of
the Tokyo missionaries.
We anticipate no confusion, no let-down. The work will go on upon the
basis of devotion to Christ, His great commission and every teaching of His
Word so well laid by Mr, and Mrs. Cunningham over half a century ago.
Your ministers to Japan,
Harold and Lois Sims
For instance, here is a small dirt bridge over a country road, and beside it is
a sign saying tons. This means the bridge can bear a weight of tons, so it is
aH right for vehicles less than that to pass. The limit this bridge can suffer is
tons. In regard to 6 tons this bridge would abandon its duty and crumble and fall
down. Or here is a 2 litre measure. If we want to put in 2k litres of liquid it
would run over because the allowable amount had been crossed over. IDiis meSpSure
suffers up to 2 litres, but over that it is no good.
In the case of people it is the same. In each person the limit or capacity of
burden allowancehow much he can sufferis different. I often experience that in
Tokyo's terribly crowded transportation facilities. When the car sways strongly I
inadvertantly step on someone's foot, and there are some people who step back on mine
with the same face in an instant. back pushes someone, and without any interfal
he pushes back strongly. This reaction is especially strong in the rush hour. In ny
heart I think, "Ha,ha, this person's allowance is near zerol' And because these zero
folerance raters are packed in like rice balls and always pushing each other the nerves
of commuting employees are already worn down before they reach the company. And this
becomes the picture of their life.
Which is best?
We understand there is a.difference in individual's capacity. Well, how abo\;rt
nyself? Should I seek to enlarge my capacity, or rather would it be better smaller?
Kiat is a difficult problem, and perhaps we cannot answer either suddenly, because
if the way of thinking (philosophy of life) is different, a different conclusion will
come. For instance, the previous story of the bridge. Some people might say "5 tons
is better than 5^g^-the smaller the betterbecause you get by with small duty and
responsibility'.' And of course there will be some to say, "No, the b&gger the better.
The bigger responsibility we receive makes life more worth living." The former person
thinks the latter is quite strange and has conteiiq>t for him. The latter thin^ ths
former is a weak-spirited man. It is not siizply a problem of profit and losswhich
is better.
Do we nibt sigh at times, "Why do troubles attack me one after another this way?"
At times I get real discouraged and think I will just abandon everything. It is said
one difficulty passes and then one more, but sometimes before one difficulty is
settled a second and third comes along. In my fancy I think "someone made me the
enemy of his eye and is alloting burdens to me one after another." At that time one
thinks it would be better to throw av/ay his patience and capacity and decline from office.
We often say, "even in the fact of Buddah 5 times" but there are people who put upon
me the same inconvenience any number of times, as if to test iry goodness. People
request their own selfish way quite as if it is my duty to do it. Then even if it is
my own unavoidable problem still I think I would like to shout at them and send them
back if possible. At such times the ordinary experience that I have received by moral
cultivation will be insufficient. There are a great many hardships in the world that
exceed patience. Finally negative (patience) cannot resist positive (triads, tests).
Well then, for our survival isn't there anything more than the virtue called patience?
Passing through the trials of life, after v/e have fully known the limits of pdAience
we return to the Bible.
Love is slow.
This, strange word is Paul's in I Cor. 1^:4. In other words, love is the
fountain-head of patience* Love suffers long. It can endure and wait longest, is slow
to anger, slow to cast away, slow to judge*
When you say love the Bible reader first thinks of God's love* At the end of
this long history why does the Lord God not absindon this human race that even now does
not return to God, does not think of or trust God, and continues to return and wallow
in disgrace of sin? It is not God's v/ill that even one be put out to destruction, so
Hs is quietly enduring and waiting* Man must not set at nought this tolerance of God.
When himaan patience has reached its limit the Christian thinks of God's love*
We cannot forget that God is patient with us. And love is not a condition of quiet
ness, but most strong and positive activity as we see in the Cross of Christ. The
Christian studies again that love is slow, eind reflects on his childish haste, and
encouraged by the Lord he becomes tolerant to the world, others and even himself.
One who has not yet been cast aside by God cannot cast himself aside.
The Patience of Hope
The reason a parent, is patient with his child is because there is hope. If
this hope were lost the v/orld's parents would forsake their children- No mother
expects courtesy and etiquette from a baby while changing his diaper, but when he
grows up and gets old enough he feels thanks and obligation to his mother for all the
trouble he caused her in the past. The parent, looking in hope to the distant future,
"suffers" all his child does.
If even a parent is like this it is not easy to know how much more the heart
of ^d the father of mankind suffers. We only know that once God after fastening
Christ on a Cross resurrected Him, and we are given the promise that finally He will
send that Christ again and He v/ill judge all things.
Hope must have eternality. Paul calls Christian hope "the hope of our Lord
Jesus Christand Christian patience "patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ."
When we make this our present-day hope I can also have this great, positive patience.
Faith and Patience .
We understand that love and hope are a big reservoir for patience. But with
only that patience might possibly be thought of as what the world calls resignation,
a state of abandonment,, heIf let-go, deceiving by painting the outside. Christian
^tience has yet one more thing to save it from such misunderstandingsthat is faith.
One of the famous parables in Luke is The Iftijust Judge (Lk. 18:1-8) God has deep
patiencej but is it not sure that He will not fail.to give righteous judgement for
.f. people tho cry to Him day and night? Yes, God will judge speedily. GdA
will not abandon righteous judgement because of patience. . In this way a Christian
believes God with his eyes open. Every time he believes that what goes against
God s will will be destroyed, but what conforms will be. So Christian patience
rooted in this faith trusts all to God's providence and positive judgement and
shows itself in a pure and transcendent attitude toward life.
Faith, Hope, LoveHow different is Christian patience rooted on these 3 things
from a manufactured concept. The one who knows this patience is a hero in life in
the true m^n.ing.. Qf_jit,^
A LETTER
Greetings. Thank you for the letter and book. I read it through once and was
very moved. I am thankful that in my youth I was able to come in contact with such a
person as Teacher (you). Today is Sunday. I planned to go to church, but as I worked
to attend " slept all morning. I hear there is an evening service, so I plan
Today again please listen to my selfishness. I am in the heart condition of
the "text, "In me who w^ts to do good I see a law that evil has come in. " ' I am buying
some sake (rice wine) and drinking little by little.in my lodging. Not specially
because I .like it, but for my health. problem is not sake, but my appetite,
ecause ny stomach is weak I should quit, but I cannot win over myself and soon att
defeated by the temptations of the Devil. Because of that I have suffered veiy much.
Like t^ wages of sin is death" I think I am also going steadily toward that, and
for small-willed me I feel like a paranoid case. I am wondering how I can be saved
by Christ.
Again, when I see I Cor. 13j^-7j regarding love it says "seeks not its ownj' but
the d^bt comes ,as to whether a person can live in the world and not seek his ov/n
benefit. Am I so distorted by selfishness that I cannot understand the Bible?
But regarding humility my heart was moved- Also in reading Uchimura Kanzo's
Religious Discussion I truly was made to feel that there is a spiritual world and I
felt fear of the punishment after death.
I also have a hope of wanting to live like a Christian, .but the temptations of
the Devil and the contradictions of the actual world, and my lack of courage etc.
preventing,! have not been abel to attain that-hope. I think my loneliness is making
me weak..
I went to the evening worship, and talked some after the seiyice. Again I felt
I ai^ weak as one man, but from the earnest attitude of the humble preacher I returned
with inspiration. Ihis has become too long. I am rude. Teacher, please continue
to work in peace and health*.
The profession of priest seems to exist in order to fill this need of the public.
Thus a professional religionist can conduct a funeral v/ith a straight face and without
emotion in the midst of a storm of contenqpt - That is the same attitude as the shop-
owner who caresnot whether each of his customers loves and respects him, or the
sandwich-man strolling along the street without expression. But in fact this is a
fearful thing, because man is made by Grod. Aperson must first know and respect
himself as being of God's hand. In thinking of our own pov?erlessness, ignorance
or weak points we must not look at ourselves-lightly.
The person who gives up his heart to temple religion by that act dishonors with
his Own hand the self he shou Id value. He has contempt not for the priest but himself.
Is there anyone v;ho doe s not thinfe that at least for the one he lives v^hen they die
he v/ants to show ordinary human emotion and send them off? Is there anyone who does
not hope that when he himself dies he would be sent away by people of true hearts
and ordinary honesty? Why, when we think so at ordinary times, do we sell out all
to the tenqple religion at the crisis time? Because in ordinary life there is not
religion. We lead a religionless daily life.
Every day of a person's life is^ religious. Those who>do not comprehend when told
that either misunderstand religions or life. Ihe misunderstanding of religions is
to th^k it is a ceremony or worship when at a turning pointmaking it a temple
religion. Temple religion is to join a sect,or d rganization and regard yourself as
a believer. This kind of a religionist is in fact most far from any connection with
Buddhism itself.
Bit this kind of tem pie religion we can also find in Christianity. That I call
Church religion." Christianity's most special characteristic is a religion of life.
Even alone one can live in Christ and serve God. In that Christianity is living and
vital. Of course Christians have fellowship and become a flock. If you caillhat a
church then it is different fron what I call here "church religion." The same word
"church" is often used for absolutely different things. That is, it is used for
v/hat might be called a Christian Temple, and is understood in that way. The pastor
becomes the Christian bonze, and Sunday worship becomes a temple visit and the church
building is thought of as a teE5)le and the Scriptures are considered as sutras.
Those who become supporting members of such a Christian temple and are only
lined up in name are in fact most far fron Christianity. Because there is no "life
in Christ" for themselves. For them Christianity has a tec^le called church and a
priest called pastor, but it is not connected with their o\m heart and soul. This
^t not be. Ihere is no other suhh vain and useless thing. If there are 100 who
link this is religion on one s'ide there are ICQ on the other side who react against
it and say with pride, "I am without religion."
I would be inclined to agree wilJi the latter. But a word of caution: As long as
mn IS man there can be no such thing as religionlessness. "No religion" does not
last long. Such as thing as non , not positive, will always be buried by
sometMng else in time. If ones does not live according to Christ and His Cross
and directly fastened to God himself and believe, fear and reverence God's righteousness
and love (not according to any organisation, temple or church), then always he will
be brought under some religion or superstition. How many times we see one proudly
saying I_have no religion" when all is going well and he is healtl^ yet when in
crisis will join some non-sensical superstition and lead in some triflinF fUneral
such as described above. -
The Bible says j In your young days knotv the Lord God and serve Eim.
Good world Gen. 1:5-25
Ihe world created and sustained by God is a good world. First He gave light,
next divided the waters, land and sea, then made plants, sun, moon, stars (the
heavenly order) and then all kinds of living things were made. These are not
scientific descriptions - Hiose who want to lociow the origin of the earth or construction
of the heavens should not coioe to Grenesis But there is something more necessary
than scmeiSbe. Man does not live by science alone. Science is explanation, discovery
or investigation of causes, but it is nothing more than that. Human life is some
thing above explanation and discovery. It v/ill not spring forth into life when
explained. By investigating the cause you cannot bring back an error that has been
committed. To believe, love and respect each other-r-all this is outside of science.
Hie 20th century is an insignifigant one whose heart has been stolen by "science onlyff
We are living in that kind of "off" age, and must not be swallowed up in it^
Ihe tning above science is faith. Many of the beliefs previous to science were
superstitions, but faith that is above, science trusts in the living and true God and
directly faces all reality, including science, boldly and straiglit-forwardly and
leads a life lived sincerely. The writer of Genesis was certainly a man of this
faith. It is well shovm in the word he repeated every day.' It would be good to
call it the central theme of this v/riting.
"God called it good." This is repeated 7 times. The world God created was a good
world. V/e must begin from this. These days it is popular to say "society is badj'
and there is no mistake about that. Now and in olden days man's society is bad.
But the problem is not that fact* The first thing our eye sees, the first impression
given to our heart is "the world is bad." This is life's greatest misfortune.
God's authority is actually existing and active, and the world according to God's
will is good. That is the fivst original, primary world. Tlie world aside from that
is all second or third world, a world off the track, and v/e might savr a false world.
No matter how "off" and insane the world may reflect to our eyes now, it is the place
where God's authoxity should be. God called it good, and God's kingdom certainly
exists. The only profif is the fact of Christ. Christ's Cross and Resurrection
and V/ord and Promise of His coming again even to those of us who have bodies in this
false, mad world, makes us believe in God's kingdom's existence.
TEMPLE RELIGION AND CHURCH RELIGION ' by Stephen lijima
I went to the funeral of an acquaintance, and vxe had to wait for the bonze
(Buddhist priest) to come. The voices of people Were heard saying, "Hasn't iihe
bonze come? V^liich temple did you ask? Well, v/hen he comes you should have him make
it short, then give him a drink and send him back as soon as you can."
Pretty soon the bonze came, and shortly he returned with a red face and carrying
food v/rapped in a wood box.' Tne funeral ended. Those who cried did so, and those
who laughed and shouted also did so. I had a feeling of sadness. At what? The cold
formality?well also that. The faint-hearted priest?also that. The nature of the
people's association?also that. But there was something more than that.
Perhaps it would be all right to say it was the"temple religion. I did not have
any particular anti pathy toward the priest personally (but no reverence). Again I
was not specially disappointed about the group who attended the funeral, because this
is an ordinary custom in our society. But in regard to the tenple religion there I
had a strong feeling of being driven into a corner.
The first distinctive feature of tenple religion is the hidden contempt. There
is not one of those people who respects this religionbeginning with the dead person
himself and including all the .^gathered mourners and even the bereaved family.
It is nothing more than the great engine called custom (conventional practice) which
keeps rattling round and round. In the midst of that cold metallic sound the dead
man is carried av;ay and the living ones go home in greater noise v;ithout any expression
or feeling. And whether or not they knov/ that presently a similar turn will come
for me, the people seem completely without feeling about life.
There is another way of thinking: Because life is too serious the nerves governing
the emotions have become paralyzed. For this person there is nothing better than to
laugh away life. Rather than a religion into which you pour your heart and believe
sincerely, what is called "temple religion" (putting everything into a kind of
machine and letting it carry the matter) is easier and better.
TOKYO
CHRISTIAN
Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature,'' {Mark 16:15)
Vol. 53 Wilmerdiiig, Pcnna., Jan.-Feb.-Mar., 1054 Number 1
52 Year Missionary Career Of Mrs, Cunningham Closes Christmas Day
6i
AN APPRECIATION
(by a Christian Japanese Professor)
The late Mrs. Emily B. CunninRham gained her eternal
refuge in the Kingdom of God. She maintained a strong
faith in Christ as her Saviour. As Dante said in the
Paradise: "In thy will is our peace," her life was devoted
in serving the Lord.
She has devoted 52 years to missionary work in Japan.
Not only did -she propagate His teachings, but she per
sonally demonstrated the Christian way of life through
her own. To speak nothing of her deeply versed knowl
edge of the Bible, she was very clear in speaking,
intellectual and possessed a remarkable ability in carry
ing out her Christian mission. I recollect her as an ideal
model of true Christianity.
She was regarded as "Mother Cunningham" by all of
her church members. This name was most suitable to
her for she cared for those in need as though they were
her own children with motherly affection and tenderness.
She was a lady who. not only preached the Bible, but
practiced all of her preachings. She had absolute faith
in the Lord and knew that it was the only way which
one could be saved. It is amazing what a large number
of soul-lost people in Japan were converted into Chris
tians by her faithful and earnest teachings. Prayer was
the fertile source of her activities.
She reiterated the verse in Matthew which reads,
"Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His righteous
ness: and all these things shall be added unto you." and
always held it as a motto of her English Bible class as
the fundamental attitude of all Christians.
My most unforgettable incident is the evening that I
first attended her Bible class at the First Church in
Tokyo in the spring of 1919 when I was a student of
the middle school; I was deeply touched by her sincei-e
faith in Christ and was determined that very night that
it was the way of life for me. I then became one of the
members of her church. This class had continued for
over thirty years until her death. Her members increased
through the years by her consistent effort and teachings.
Such an outstanding record is the first of its kind in
this country. A great number of men and women came
close to God through Mrs. Cunningham, and many dis
tinguished figui'es in every field of profession in Japan
are known to have become Christians through her.
The class was divided into four groups after the
termination of the war, but she personally taught the
Scripture to all of the classes. One of the classes was
named "Torch Hearers" by her. Before the war it was
named "Loyal Sons" which had relations with that in
the States. "Torch Bearers" will carry their torches
down through the descendents and Mother Cunningham's
teachings will continue although she may not be here
physically to observe it.
We are indeed at a loss without Mother Cunningham,
but we are confident that she will be with us spiritually
to guide us as we make effort to continue her wonderful
service.
Mother Cunningham had a short life together with us.
As the saying goes, "Life is short but Art is long." we
lielieve that the wonderful art which she carved in the
hearts of the many people in this country, the true
meaning of the Christian life through Jesus Christ, shall
remain vividly through their lives and help when they
are in distress and sorrow: an art which cannot be seen
by the naked eye, and yet so priceless and Invaluable.
"If it die. it bringeth forth much fruit" as It is stated
in the Bible, the death of Mother Cunningham is certain
to bring forth much fruit in Japan.
Toshio Timothy Noguchi
Professor of Kogakuin College
January 31, 1954
The Last Illness
On Friday. December 18lh we all went to town shop
ping as usual. Mrs. Cunningham was busy with Christ
mas plans for parlies and programs and looking forward
to Christmas day. We arrived homo early in the after
noon and she rested before time for the Christmas party
of the Friday evening class. Upon arising she complained
of pains in her head and neck and decided to go to bed
and the party went on as planned. Her daughter Eloise
came the next morning and finding her mother quite
ill called another doctor who pronounced her illness as
apople.xy. Her last thoughts were for others and how
she was spoiling the holidays for everyone. She did not
suffer great pain and went into a coma from which
she never roused on Monday evening. Eloise Cunningham
stayed with her constantly and did all that was possible
to make her comfortable.
The doctor who attended Mrs. Cunningham in her
illness hinted in his conversation with her that her time
might be near and she quickly assured him she was
ready and prepared.
After the fifth day she began to sink rapidly and her
daughter made the statement that her going was gust
like a clock slowly running down. On Christmas night
at 11:18 she was able to say with the Apostle Paul.
"I have fought a good fight. I have finished my course.
I have kept the faith. Hence forth there is laid up for
me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the
righteous judge, shall give me at that day."
Mabel Bultray
This picture of Mrs. Cunningham was taken in her
home December 15, just three days before her last illness
began and 10 days before her death. Notice the charac
teristic smile. But notice too in the background the pic
ture of Mr. Cunningham on the wall. How fitting! since
she was to lake her departure so soon to be with him
and with her Saviour!
Mrs. Cunningham's Funeral
God in His infinite wisdom has said: "To everything
there is a season, and a time to every purpose under
the heaven."
Thus, down through ages of time the truly wise have
always made preparation for the season of death.
Mrs. W. D. Cunningham was one of those wise persons
prepared for God's appointed time of death. Working
in the Lord's vineyard faithfully until one week before
the Lord said, it is enough, and her soul departed this
life.
Although Mrs. Cunningham was ready to leave this
world yet many of her friends, fellow-workers, and loved
ones were not. Therefore many decisions and arrange
ments had to be made in a matter of hours concerning
the funeral and burial. But this was not a great problem,
for I remember on a number of occasions Mrs. Cunning
ham saying she did not want an expensive funeral, but
:i very simple one. So, according to Mrs. Cunningham's
desire and statement in her will, quite simple services
wore planned by Miss Eloise Cunningham for December
23. at 2:00 o'clock in the Yotsuyu Church auditorium.
The Services began promptly on time with an over
flowing audience singing Mrs. Cunningham's favorite
song, "What a Friend We Have in Jesus."_ People were
standing everywhere except in the center aisle.
Though it was not Mrs. Cunningham's desire, there
wa-i an abundance of beautiful flowers. These were well
arranged around the urn of ashes and large portrait of
Mrs. Cunningham which rested on a table in front
of the platform. As in life, so in death Mrs. Cunning
ham was surrounded by beautiful flowers and Christian
friends. .
Standing beside Mrs. Cunningham a portrait, Mr.
Suzuki (temporary pastor of the Church) read various
l>ortion.s of Scripture in Japanese and then led in prayer.
This was followed immediately by Stanley Buttrny read
ing the same passages of God's Word in English and
following with prayer. The audience again took part in
iho service by singing in Japanese "Saviour Like a
Shojiherd Lead Us."
Following this song as the audience remained stand
ing. Peter Tokura (son of Mrs. Cunningham's maid and
faithful member of the Church) dressed in typical Jap
anese funeral costume came and took the urn of ashes
down the center aisle toward the entrance of the Church,
thus beginning the procession which was to end in Mrs.
Cunningham's final resting place on earth. Following
Peter Tokura was Mr. Buttray carrying the Cunning
ham family basket of Spring flowers, and then came
Mrs. Ruth Sumida (Mrs. Cunningham's faithful assis
tant) carrying a cross of beautiful white chrysanthemum
and orchids and Mr. Suzuki, the Japanese minister. In
the moment that it took for the proces.sion to leave the
church it seemed as if every Japanese person turned
and followed with their eyes as long as possible the
little white box that contained all that was left of their
teacher and friend.
And when these four persons and the undertaker were
driving away from the front of the church, there stand
ing on the front steps was a small group of close Jap
anese friends. With tears in their eyes, (which is
unusual) and faces that were saddened it seemed as
though they were trying to say goodbye for the last time,
but no voice could be heard, nor was any arm raised in
a farewell salute. They loved her much.
The short service at the Zoshigaya Cemetery was sim
ple but flavored with a little Japanese custom. After a
few final remarks by Stanley Buttray and prayer offered
Tribute From the Fattens
Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord. And blessed
are those who can treasure up the remembrance of such
a life as that of Mrs. Cunningham. Like Dorcas of old,
Mrs. Cunningham was greatly mourned by those who
had been benefitted by her kind and sincere ministrations.
What an epitaph! More greatly to be desired is such
than ever so many flattering words inscribed on marble
or 'oronze.
Undoubtedly all who have known Mrs. Cunningham
remember her as a very happy woman. Here was not a
superficial happinesstransient and unsatisfying. She
was happy because she had experienced the wonderful
grace of God and the forgiveness of sins throughout
most of her fruitful and long life on earth. The rich
promises in the Word of God were sufficient to set her
heart aglow and direct her footsteps toward the salvation
ready to be revealed in the last day.
Mrs. Cunningham's happiness was contagious. It was
neither feigned nor did she succeed in keeping it to
herself. By observing her life, the Japanese people whom
she loved dearly could better understand the_ meaning
and desirability of true happiness. Being convinced that
those are happiest who serve most, she received her
greatest joy from helping the Japanese to know God
and from easing their physical distresses.
Life was real and serious to her. The conviction that
her Creator and Redeemer had an important work which
must be done by her constantly challenged her to dili
gence and untiring zeal. Procrastination and negligence
had no part In her character. Difficulties vanished away
before her energetic spirit. Time was very important
to her and consequently every moment must be useful
causing others to know Christ. She was systematic and
businesslike by nature, but she constantly sought to
cultivate these virtues in order to take advantage of every
opportunity for service for her God.
Mrs. Cunningham was full of faith. Faith, according
to her was strict life as a Christian, meant sacrifice for
her Lord, if sacrifice was necessary. To her, every man
who had appropriated the salvation of the cross of
Christ must take up his own cross and follow Jesus.
Such faith led her and her husband to be pioneers in
direct-support missions. They sought neither adventure
nor excitement that would minister to base desires. Their
strong faith in the living God led them to great victories
in spite of unbelievable difficulties. This same unconquer
able faith led her to swallow her sorrow at the decease
of her husband and to continue to hold the banner of
Christ high over Japan. It was very fitting and appr^
priate that she was called home while she was in the
midst of hev extensive labors for the salvation of her
beloved Japanese people.
She needs no letters of commendation, as do some,
for the numerous hearts and consciences with the gospel
of our glorious God stamped on them by her instrument
ality are far more eloquent in their praise.
Andrew and Betty Patton
A Japanese Preacher's Tribute
When Mr. Cunningham died in 1936, the Japanese
Christians did not expect Mrs. Cunningham to return to
Tokyo alone, at her age and apart from her family. But
she did return and worked very hard as a missionary.
When she came back in 1936 she said very humbly. I
am left as the last rose of summer in the lonely garden.
But she was not the last summer rose for she bloomed
so bravely in the autumn and winter of her age. In
spite of her advanced age she never failed to do her
best. She was not a one season flower, but a perennial.
One of the most wonderful things she did was teaching
so many Bible Classes in a week. There were about '70
to 80 attending the Sunday morning class._ Everybody
recognized that she was one of the most successful teachers
of the Bible in Japan. We know that hundreds of Chris
tians who have been baptized in her Bible classes lelt
her motherly love. Japanese Christians who have had
the influence of her teaching will never forget her. bhe
was loved by all who knew her. .
Shin Haniu
by Mr. Suzuki, the caretaker placed a few shovelsful
of dirt upon the box. Then each one of four persons in
turn took the shovel and helped to cover the grave with
earth. The cai-etnker then placed a thre^foot wo^en
cross in the grave and finished putting the earth back
from whence it came.
The basket of flowers and the bottom end of the cross
of white chrysanthemums were then placed over the
grave and the top end of the cross was placed against
the wooden cross, thus uniting the earthly with the
Heavenly One who died on the old rugged cross. Here
is symbolized the purity that only those who are faithful
can hope to attain upon leaving this world.
For Mrs. Cunningham the battle is over
The victory is won.
But for us who remain
The fight has just begun.
Yours in Christ,
Stanley Buttray
THE TOKYO CHRISTIAN
Published by-monthly by the Church of Christ
Cunningham Mission, Tokyo, Japan, for the infor
mation and inspiration of every Christian whose
heart is open to the call of Christ, and who is
willing to help in the supreme task of carrying out
the Great Commission of Christ: "Go ye therefore
and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name
of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy
Ghost; teaching them to observe all things what
soever I have commanded you; and lo, I am with
you alway, even unto the end of the world." Matt.
28:19, 20.
Entered as second class matter in the Wilmerding,
Pa., PostoCFice under the Act of March 3, 1879.
TWO-YEAR SUBSCRIPTION 50 CENTS
"FLAbnNG TORCH" 50 CENTS
ALFRED E. SIMS Editor
MISSION STAFF
Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Buttray, 575 2-Chome, Kamio-
chiai, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo, Japan. Forwarding
agent, Mrs. Homer Anderson, R. D. 1, MeadvUle, Fa.
Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Patton, 450 Aral Machi, Na-
kano-Ku, Tokyo, Japan. Forwarding agent, Mr. or
Mrs. Bay Armstrong, Route 3, Box 310, Plqua, Ohio
Mr. and Mrs. Harold Sims, on furlough, 2811 Warsaw
Ave., Cincinnati, Ohio. Forwarding agent, A. E.
Sims, 310 Brown Ave., Turtle Greek. Pa.
TRUSTEES
Mr. T. O. Hathcock Miss Eva Green
Mr. Lawrence Bain
Orvel C. Crowder
Mrs. E. G. Nabell Alfred E. Sims
J. E. Lipscombe
Packages for Japan should be sent direct by
parcel post to one of the missionaries whose ad
dresses are shown above. Packages of clothing can
be sent up to 22 pounds, not over 42 inches long
of 82 inches in girth. Packages of printed matter
up to 6 pounds 9 ounces, not over 24 inches long
and 36 inches girth can be sent.
Consult your local post office about preparation
of packages for mailing.
If you change your address please notify A.
E. Sims, 310 Brown Avenue, Turtle Creek,
Pa., giving both your old and your new address.
We want to keep our mailing lists up to date.
If you make an offering you are entitled to
receive this paper if you so request.
NOTICE
Miss Green is NOT a forwarding agent any more.
Offerings may be sent to any of the forwarding agents
listed above, or directly to the missionaries on the field
if you prefer. All offerings sent to Japan should be by
check. Do not send cash to Japan.
EDITORIAL
It is fitting that we give prominence in this issue to
the life and work of Mrs. W. D. Cunningham, who was
called to her eternal reward on Christmas Day, 1963.
We had asked several, soon after hearing of her death,
to write articles expressing appreciation of her out
standing life as a missionary. But the spontaneous
expressions of appreciation that have come from far
and near constitute a real tribute. And why not?
Indeed it is a rare thing for anyone to serve as an
active missionary for more than fifty two years, but
that is true of Mrs. Cunningham. At the end of fifty
years she had the privilege of coming to the States to
visit her family, relatives and friends, but after a few
months she wanted to go back home to Japan to spend
her remaining days with the people she had learned to
love. God gave her the strengUt and she was active,
teaching classes, etc., till a very short while before the
end came. She was buried in Japan, where she had
invested her life. Of course this was - in keeping with
her desire. Her daughter, Eloise, was with her at the
time of her death and made funeral arrangements.
It seems fitting too, or perhaps even providential, that
the new plans for the on-going and support of the
Mission were agreed upon by Mrs. Cunningham and
all the missionaries, last Spring and became
effective in September, while Mrs. Cunningham was still
active and in good health. There is no reason to doubt
that the work will go on, to the glory of God and the
salvation of lost souls. As the Lord stood by the Cun
ninghams when they went out on faith, so will the
Lord stand. by the newer missionaries, who are also
there on faith. As the Lord put it into the hearts of
His people to sustain the Cunninghams with their offer
ings, so will the Lord put it into the hearts of His
people to sustain the present and future missionaries
in the same way if they keep the faith. All glory and
praise be to Him.
A SUGGESTION
Since Miss Green is no longer a forwarding agent, we
suggest that you send your offering to any one of the
three forwarding agents listed on page 2. If you prefer
you may send it to any of the missionaries whose ad
dresses are given. Or if you prefer you may send it
directly to Tokyo Bible Seminary, 27 Sakurayama, Na-
kano-Ku, Tokyo, Japan. But remember: Send by check
if you send to Japan. It is unsafe to send cash and
it is difficult to collect postal money orders, but easy
to cash checks.
TOKYO CHRISTIA]^
A Truly Great Woman
1901 An Appreciation of
the Life of Mrs. W. D. Cunningham
Our beloved, Emily Boyd Cunningham, pioneer mis
sionary to Japan, went to be with her Lord in the
evening of Christmas Day, 1963. She was active in mak
ing detailed arrangements for the Japanese Christians
and her students to honor the birthday of her King
and then quietly went on to join the Heavenly Chorus.
On October 1st, 1901 she and Brother Cunningham
arrived in Japan and in the first issue (Nov. 1901) of
the Tokyo Christian stated "We are here to do the work
to which we believe the Lord has called us" and from
the day they arrived until the day they were called for
His reward, neither of them for one moment lost that
vision of ^e Lord's call or slackened their efforts to
fulfill that dedication.
In the December 1963 issue of the Tokyo Christian she
report^ four baptisms in First Church and expressed
her joy in welcoming them and said "Recently I took
cold and have been rather slow recovering and Mrs.
Buttray kindly agreed to take over one of my Sunday
Bible Glasses for the time being. I hope to be able later
to take it on again. We are all busy with Christmas
programs. The Japanese love a Christian Christmas and
we work hard each year to help them understand the
Virgin Birth of Christ and to know the great sacrifice
God made to give the world the greatest gift of all
His only Son."
Soldier of the Cross, All Hail I You have fought the
good fight. You have finished your course. Therefore
the Crown.
Your life of joyous service will inspire others through
the years that are to come. First Church and your
associates on the field will carry on and, we trust,
enlarge the work you were so faithfully doing.
It is the hope of the Church of Christ Cunningham
Mission that many like qualified and dedicated new
missionary recruits may be secured to carry on the great
work our dear Sister Cunningham was doing.
T. O. Hathcock,
* V. Pres., Church of Christ
Cunningham Mission
An Inspiring Life
1953
(Brother Lipscombe is one of our trustees)
Miss Eva Green notified me about a week ago of
Sister Cunningham's death. We were surprised, for we
had a Christmas message from her just a few days
before. I shall remember with pleasure their visits to
our home, and the inspiration they brought us regard
ing the work in Japan.
In my judgment no two people of our day have done
more to advance and establish the cause of New Testa
ment Missions than Brother W. D. Cunningham and his
wife. It should be a pleasure, to us who knew them, to
honor them by keeping up the good work which they
began. .
The Cunninghams were pioneers in Faith Missions,
or what we now call "Independent Missions." I hereby
affirm my faith IN, and pledge anew my exclusive sup
port TO, Independent Missions, as practiced by faithful
men, in keeping with the teachings of Christ and His
We have been reading and distributing the "Tokyo
Christian" for years, and shall look forward to its
quarterly visits. J. E. Lipscombe
The Latest From the Simses
The latest news from the Sims family is that they have
written a freighter steamship company to ask for space
on the first sailing they can give us after August 20.
They are shopping around for a second-hand piano in
good condition and cheap, a washing-machine, a^ refriger
ator, and many other smaller items of furniture and
clothing.
The school work is moving right along with only a
few more weeks to go. Harold, and sometimes the
family with him, is traveling every week-end to some
churches to present the work and their plans.
We are still seeking living-link support for the chil
dren, and would appreciate hearing from anyone who is
interested in this type of project.
What Others Say
We are unable to publish in full all the letters we
have received. Many of them pay tribute to Mrs. Cun
ningham. The following excerpts seem to be fairly
representative.Ed.
Mrs. Lida F. Conover, Washington: "Sorry to hear
of Mrs. Cunningham's death. I know she will be greatly
missed by everyone of the Mission Staff, she has been
there so long. It seems that I knew her, as I had read
and heard of her and her husband so long. My parents
contributed to their support as long as they lived. Since
their death I have helped in my feeble way."
Harbour Williams, Michigan: "Met Mr. Cunningham
many years ago in Detroit. Never had the chance to
meet the Mrs. However I expect to later."
Miss Florence Brown, Iowa: "Just today I read in
the Tokyo Christian about the passing of Mrs. Cunning
ham. I feel that she has done a wonderful work, and
feel thankful that her passing was peaceful as stated.
I value highly the Tokyo Christian, and believe that the
decision to issue it quarterly is as good as can be done
under the circumstances. I would miss it much if it
stopped entirely. We have taken it most of the time
for probably 30 years or more."
Wallace Schreiber, Kansas: "We were saddened to
hear of the passing of Mrs. Cunningham. We've had
strong faith in the work for a go^ many years. Our
prayer is for the on-going of the Mission, and will help
as we can in the future."
Mr. and Mrs. E. W. Woods, Pennsylvania: "We knew
Mrs. Cunningham. She spoke in our church on two
occasions, and she visited in our home a short time, on
A Remarkable Character
Mrs. Cunningham wrote us a letter while on board
the General Gordon in June 1947, as she returned to her
work in Japan. She mentioned that it was her fourteenth
crossing of the Pacific Ocean. Besides that, she had
returned from Japan in early 1942 on the Gripsholm
by a 63-day circuitous route through the Indian, An-
arctic, and South Atlantic Oceans. Her main complaint
was that she had to take the regular immunization shots
again. But at the end of the letter she said, "but those
shots didn't hurt me. I'm old and I'm tough." I have
always thought that those words describe in a great
measure the personality of this great pioneer missionary.
No one would have called her a shirker if Mrs. Cun
ningham had retired upon returning from Japan in the
early days of World War II. She was then 69 years old,
and had carried the work practically alone since Mr.
Cunningham's passing in 1936. But she set to work im
mediately to find and inspire recruits to go back to
Japan with her.
In Japan she found her home and everything else
destroyed; but, not indulging in memories of the past,
she set about the task of rebuilding. It was amazing to
younger folks to see how cheerfully she took the incon
veniences of that first cold winter, and how she re
bounded from bad colds and rheumatism.
In all her dealings with people, both Japanese and
American, she was firm and plain-spoken. The con
tractors soon found they couldn't get by with as much
as they thought. The preachers were occasionally called
down. In the mission meetings she always held to the
policies Mr. Cunningham followed through the years,
but when the inevitable differences arose I was impressed
with her tolerance and understanding and willingness
to cooperate and yield to missonaries the age of her
grandchildren.
Before she was married. Miss Emily Boyd was a school
teacher, and she kept the best traditions of that pro
fession until the last. This is the schedule she was
carrying.
Sunday 9:00 A. M.: Junior High School class aver
aging 65; Sunday 11:00 A. M.: Bible Class after the
worship service (she continued this in Yotsuya church
more ^an 30 years); Monday, 2:00 P. M.: Ladies meet
ing averaging 26; Tuesday, 6:30 P. M.: Business men's
meeting averaging 20; Wednesday, 7:30 P. M.: Prayer
Meeting at the church; Friday, 6:30 P. M.; Inquirer's
meeting averaging 16. For each of these classes she
never failed to prepare a mimeographed outline for the
students to follow. She also felt a deep obligation to
study for each class in order to be properly prepared.
Whenever anyone went in to Mrs. Cunningham's house
for any reason the first thing you must do was have a
cup of tea. And always there was cake or pie or cookies
to go with it. She was not only very hospitable but her
conversation was always bright with wit and humor.
Mrs. Cunningham will be missed by all of us. She did
a great work in Japan for more than half a century.
The congregation of what she always called "First
Church" (because it was the first one built) will prob
ably miss her most of all, for since her home was next
door her later years of labor were nearly all concen
trated in that place.
Truly a great leader and worker in the service of the
Lord has gone to her reward.
^Harold and Lois Sims
Mother Buttray Called
From This Life
Our heart-felt sympathy is extended to the Stanley
Buttrays. After an illness of about two years and after
being confined to the bed for several months. Stanley's
mother passed away on December 39, 1963. She was the
mother of nine children, eight of whom are living, and
one son was killed in World War II. We extend our
sympathy to all the family, but especially to Stanley, on
account of his being so far away at the time. Perhaps
her greatest contribution to the world was a Missionary
of the Gospel of Christ. It is our prayer that he may
find consolation and comfort in the One he serves so
loyally and faithfully. May he ever be conscious of His
nearness.
HOW ABOUT YOU?
One of the missionary families writes: "We have de
cided to invest $100.00 in the LIFE OF CHRIST
VISUALIZED for we think that it will be a great asset
to the work here. Wish we 90uld invest more, but . . ."
Then a prayer that others too will invest. You too be
praying. $5000.00 or more could thus be wisely invested.
The Harold Simses have applied for an August sailing
date. As yet they have not sufficient funds, but in faith
they trust the Lord will see that their needs are supplied.
Representing Japanese Women
It is a pleasure for me representing the Christian
Women's Association, to say a few words of tribute to
the late Mrs. W. D. Cunningham. She was the founder
of our Christian Women's Association out of which many
good Christian women have been born under her infiu-
ence. She loved Japanese women dearly and had a pro
found understanding of us. Indeed, she has set us a
splendid example as an ideal Christian wife, and mother
as well as a good preacher. We should follow her example
most faithfully, molding our daily Christian way of life
hereafter. Chiyeko Matsumura
WE BEG YOUR PARDON
How do you like our smaller type? Perhaps you do
not. But it enables us to use more of the many spon
taneous appreciations of Mrs. Cunningham.
her last furlough. Sorry to hear of her passing, but
know she is with the Lord."
Mrs. Sadie Reisling, Ohio: "It was with deep regret
that I read of Mrs. Cunningham's passing from this
life. Please keep me on the mailing list to receive the
Tokyo Christian."
Continued on Page 4
A Special Memorial
Customarily, funeral services in Japan are lengthy.
Even though those who conduct the services have every
good intention, by the time the services are ended those
who are bereaved are more bereaved,_ it seems, rather
than comforted. Therefore, Mrs. Cunningham expressed,
while living, her desire that, when she died, her funeral
services be short and simple. In keeping with this re
quest Mrs. Cunningham's daughter, Eloise, made ar
rangements for a short and effective funeral. At the
same time the Japanese were requested to have a special
memorial service at a later date if they wished to further
remember Mrs. Cunningham.
On the day of Mrs. Cunningham's funeral the leaders
of the Wakaba Cho Church were given assurance that
some sort of medal of merit would be awarded by the
Japanese government to show their appreciation for the
meritorious service which Mrs. Cunningham had rendered
for the Japanese nation. Since Mrs. Cunningham had
confined her work mostly with the Wakaba Cho Church,
that church took charge of the memorial service. They,
therefore, thought it would be fitting indeed to postpone
the memorial service until the medal of merit was
received. The date of the service was set for January
24th at 2:00 P. M., and the medal was received a few
hours before the ceremony.
On the table in front of the rostrum a large picture
of Mrs. Cunningham was placed. Beautiful Sowers
decorated each side of the table and the front of the
rostrum. And how appropriate it was that the medal
of merit, a token of appreciation for sacrificial service,
Mrs. Cunningham had done for the Japanese people,
should be placed in front of her picture. The center of
the medal consisted of a tiny mirror. Beautiful oblong
ruby sets surrounded the mirror. The whole set was
attached to a beautiful piece of material and a pin. This
medal represented the fourth grade award from the
Ministry of Education out of the seven grades of awards
which tha Japanese government can give.
The songs sung on the occasion consisted of hymns
and gospel songs in English which Mrs.. Cunningham
had loved mixed with other appropriate songs in Jap
anese. After the prayers, songs, special music and scrip
ture reading, Mr. Noguchi of the Wakaba Cho Church
read a well prepared history of the life of Mrs. Cunning
ham. Then Mr. Suzuki, who is also affiliated with the
same church, spoke on the subject, "Return to Bethle
hem." Following the remarks by Andrew Patton as the
representative of the Church of Christ Cunningham Mis
sion and those of Shin Haniu, representative of the
various churches of Christ, representatives of the various
groups of Wakaba Cho Church spoke, namely, from the
church, the Women's meeting, the Bible Classes and the
Junior church. After the announcements, a song and a
prayer the assembly was dismissed.
After having been benefitted by having our memory
freshened concerning the exemplary life of such a one
as Mrs. Cunningham, we returned to our .homes greatly
encouraged to go forward in the wonderful work of the
Lord to which Mrs. Cunningham had dedicated herself
so well and so long. We praise the memory of Mrs.
Cunnnigham and hastily take courage and hope for the
fierce battle of faith ahead of ourselves.
^Andrew Patton
Mrs, Cunningham^s Japanese
Helper Writes
It is six years ago that I first met Mrs. Cunningham
when I took my older boy to her Bible Class. At that
time she was living in a rented Japanese house and it
impressed me very much to see her overcome all the
obstacles at her age and so zealously give all of her
time and energy in spreading the Gospel which was very
much needed, as most people did not know who or what
to believe and were literally in a lost condition. It is
marvelous how so many people, old and young, boys and
girls have become Christians through her Bible Class.
Her faith and wili power was strong; one that could
' not be changed or moved by anything, but she was also
kind, cheerful, and happy. No matter how tired or busy
she might be she always greeted people who came to
see her with a pleasant smile. She helped many people
both spiritually and materially. In spite of her age she
was very systematic and beforehanded. Her lessons were
all prepared a week ahead and she never left things to
the last minute. I think this can be well understood
through her preparation for Christmas. She had arranged
a Christmas program for all of her classes which were
the "9:0(1 A. M. Junior Class," "Tuesday Evening Class
(Business Men)", "Friday Evening Class (Non-Chris
tians)", "PHijinkai (Women's Meeting)", and for the
Church Christmas program with close attention. All the
(ilhristmas mail was sent out and presents for individuals
were nicely wrapped and ready to give out. This was all
done ten days before she passed away on Christmas
night. I wonder how many of us are so well prepared as
she was. Not only was she ready for the work in a
material way, but best of all she was prepared spiritually
in her soul. Because of this, although we did feel lonely
and sad when she went, we had the comfort that her
soul was resting in peace and where she wanted to be
and we should rejoice in this respect. This being always
prepared is one of the most important things that I feel
that I should learn from Mrs. Cunningham.
Another striking thing to me is that after she passed
away we all felt something in our hearts that we'all
must work hard to fill the vacant place that she had
left. This stirring of our hearts, I believe, is the work
of the spirit through her from God, something that can
not be expressed in words or writing. She lived a Chris
tian life of light and I hope we will be able to continue
to keep the light that she has left for us shining through
our work and deeds and help to glorify His Precious
Name, which was Mrs. Cunningham's greatest wish..
Ruth Sumida
TOKYO CHRISTIAN
Our First Graduate
Stephen lijima was the first student to graduate from
our Tokyo Bible Seminary. We are very proud of him
and justly so. Last April he was chosen to be super
intendent of thq seminary and has been doing very well
at this work. His teaching and influence has been inspir
ing to students and missionaries alike. The effect upon
the Seminary has been like the warm breath of spring
touching everything into life.
During the summer Stephen helped with the summer
camp but his heart's desire was to do evangelistic
work and he had thought of going to his home in Hok
kaido for a few weeks. Upon returning to Tokyo from
camp he found a letter from Mark Maxey asking him
to come to Kyushu to speak for their summer convention
of the Satsuma churches. The next day Stephen and his
wife boarded a train for Kyushu. When he left Tokyo
on August 18 little did he realize he would not be back
in time for the opening of the Seminary on the fifteenth
of September. On his arrival a day and a half later he
began what turned out to be one of the busiest months
of his Christian life.
Beginning by speaking at the convention he was kept
busy almost every day, from street preaching in Kanoya
to visiting the distant churches which brought forth a
total result of 94 confessions. A follow-up teaching for
these ninety-four persons resulted in seventy-four bap
tized ^lievers in Christ. We are proud that he could
help in the harvesting of these souls.
One evening Stephen was street preaching in a town
in Kanoya and a man strolling by on his way to a
house of iii-fame, stopped and listened. Stephen hap
pened to ^ preaching from John chapter 8 about the
woman taken in adultery. After the service the man
invited Stephen to his home where he talked with both
husband and wife. What was almost a broken home was
brought again into sweet fellowship, through the preach
ing of Gc^'s Word.
When Stephen was making plans to return to Tokyo
a young preacher came to Mark Maxey's home where
he was staying and begged him to go with him to Tani-
goshima, a small island, near by. The island people
could not be changed by the young preacher but they
might be convinced by Stephen, because he was older.
After much talking, Mr. Maxey prevailed upon him to go
and the result of his visit to Tanigoshima was a number
of conversions.
Immediately on returning from Tanigoshima, lijima
San and his wife got on a small ship to cross the Inland
Sea on their way back to Tokyo. On this ship were about
two hundred young students who were returning from
an excursion. Upon asking the Captain of the ship,
lijima San received permission to preach to the students,
and did so, resulting in four girls making decisions to
become Christians.
Surely the organization of the Tokyo Bible Seminary
six years ago was not just by chance,_but of God. These
young evangelists, graduates, are beginning to reap the
harvest that all of us have hoped for, worked for, and
prayed for, and God has commanded. This is your Bible
College, these are your young evangelists.
Stanley Buttray
Our Best Year At
Tokyo Bible Seminary
The sixth year of Tokyo Bible Seminary will become
history in a few days. This has been the most fruitful
and happiest year, I believe, that this Seminary has
experienced! In spite of our many limitations and dif
ficulties we can confidently take great pleasure in sur
veying the progress of our students in their knowledge
of the Lord.
We expect to finish up the school year with twenty-
five students. A small number of students were lost
during the year because of sickness and other reasons,
but five new students have been added to the group since
the first of November, the beginning of our second
semester. Three male students transferred to the school
from a denominational school. A blind young man en
tered on January first so that he could become accus
tomed to the school in anticipation of becoming a full-
fledged student in April. And a Korean young man who
first entered the school in 1951 but contracted tuber
culosis has recuperated and re-entered the school in
January.
We have hopes for the largest Freshman enrollment
in the school's history at the beginning of our school
year in April. We expect students from various parts
of Honshu, from Kyushu and Okinawa. In preparation
for these new students we have moved the books out
of the former library room and have had to convert the
prayer room into a library room. We are in the process
of converting the former library room into dormitory
space. This will accommodate only four boys and is the
final room that can be converted in to a dormitory room.
Therefore, it is imperative that we begin planning for
additional facilities for the very near future. We hope
to have these plans finished soon. The success of this
endeavor will depend on your help. We know that each
of you will want to have a part in the work and fruits
of Tokyo Bible Seminary. You need not wait until all
of the plans are completed. Send your contributions
now to Tokyo Bible Seminary, 27 Sakurayama Machi,
Nakano Ku, Tokyo, Japan.
This Seminary started to stand on its own financial
feet on last September first. The school is able to oper
ate on three hundred dollars a month. This includes
ten dollars a month for food for most of the students
who stay in the dormitory but does not include major
building repairs. We are greatly encouraged by the fact
that the school has been able so far to meet all of its
financial liabilities. This was made possible only because
you gooid people have seen the need of a trained Jap
anese ministry and have continued to send to our need.
We pray that more of you will desire to have a part
in financing Tokyo Bible Seminary. Your prayers, inter
est and generous contributions on behalf of this school
will result in more and better prepared ministers of
the Word in Japan. Andrew Patton
A Student's Admiring Love
For Mother Cunningham
My memory of Mrs. Cunningham goes back to the
first day when I met her at her home. It was thirteen
years ago when one of my friends took me to her Bible
study meeting. The meeting was composed of five or
six college boys including two foreign students from
Manchuria. She .used to ask us while she was teaching
about what she taught, so that she might know to what
degree we understood her.
When the Pacific War broke out, she was forced to
return to America. For more than ten years I had been
like a prodigal son although I did not forget her and
the_ Bible study. When I met her again, I really was
excited. I decided to attend her Bible Class and church
as faithfully as I could. She often told us that we should
attend church and take part in the communion service
unless we have a good excuse to God.
Her way of teaching was excellent. She was always
trying to make difficult things easy to understand. Her
lecture was exhaustive and comprehensive. Above all her
teaching was perfectly Biblical. Sometimes her too many
references to the Bible confused me for which I felt
guilty of my laziness in studying. Her memory was
surprisingly strong. It seemed to be easy for her to
remember the names of new members at the first time
she met them.
She was so kind to everybody that she could not but
worry about those who were absent from church or
Bible class. She earnestly prayed for those who were
ill in bed and those who were sad. She loved each of
us as her sons and daughters and used to call herself
"mother."
Despite her kindness and warmness of her heart, she
was not lukewarm. I remember that one day she told
me she was glad to be narrow-minded for the sake of
Jesus Christ. She was hot in her faith. She would not
compromise with any anti-Christian idea.. It was (die
worst crime which man could commit to deny Jesus as
our Saviour, and the son of iiving (3od. She could stand
anything except this greatest sin on earth.
I am proud of being able to make her happy once.
When I succeeded in getting a scholarship from the State
Department of the United States, she was as excited
as myself. When I was studying at the University of
California, Berkeley as a graduate student, she often
wrote me and said that she was proud of having such
a member like me who can study abroad. At the same
time she did not forget to encourage me to attend
church faithfully and keep praying wherever I might go.
Thanks to her encouragement and prayer I did not miss
even a single Sunday worship, which I was happy to
tell her on returning home.
Last September, she asked me to work as her inter
preter of the Bible Class. Although I worried and was
afraid that my poor translation would spoil her teach.-
ing, I accepted that, thinking it was my privilege to
help her in telling the Gospel. Our Bible Class had a
Christmas meeting two weeks before her death. The
story of the fourth wise man, which she told us on that
occasion was a beautiful one. It was the last story which
she told us, but the most touching one I ever heard.
Mrs. Cunningham spent everything in bringing Jap
anese people to Jesus Christ. But everything she lost
for the sake of Japanese people was given to Jesus.
She might be a great character wherever she be, but it
is the priviiege of Japanese people that she lived among
us to show the light upon us. It is no wonder that His
Imperial Majesty the hnperor honored her with a medal
of honor.
Now, we must add the name of Mrs. Cunningham to
the long list of Christian heroes and martyrs who devoted
their lives for the cause of Christianity.
I miss her happy smile terribly. I cannot think she
has passed away, because her voice still vibrates in my
ears, "Come to church. Study the Bible. Fray incessantly
and remain a good Christian."
^Abraham Amano
FORTY YEARS AGO
Through Mr. and Mrs. Cunningham's passionate and
zealous Mission work my whole family came to believe
in God and since then we have devoted our lives to
working for Christ. My husband became a minister of
one of the churches of the Yotsuya Mission and I have
been in service forty years. The Cunninghams worked
long and hard and their work was not easy.
Twenty years ago Mr. and Mrs. Cunningham returned
to America for a year's furlough and during their stay
Mr. Cunningham passed away. Everyone wondered what
was going to happen to the Mission and they were very
much troubled. However, by the desire of all the minis
ters of the Yotsuya Mission, Mrs. Cunningham came to
Japan again. She devoted her whole heart and soul for
the spreading of the Gospel. She did not spend time for
her own self, and eagerness for her work made a larger
growth than ever before. Everyone who has once been
in touch with Mrs. Cunningham has felt the deeds of
love and the work of the Spirit which is something they
cannot forget.
She was also a mother and a wife, just as in the
thirty-first chapter of Proverbs.
After the war she did not think of her age of 72
years and came to Japan and did not mind the incon
venient living in rented rooms. She made calls on the
families of members and gave out food and clothing to
help out the ones that were in great need. She helped
the people that were suffering from the flood damage
and really led an acti\e life. This I think, could not
have been possible without God working within her. Mrs.
(Cunningham is now called ''Mother Cunningham" by us
Japanese and loved and respected by all who knew her.
The Japanese Govenment has awarded her with a
decoration of the medal of honor of the Fourth Degree.
She is really our benefactor and one we cannot forget.
She did not rest even a day and served faithfuliy unto
death and as we think of her there is nothing but
gratitude and deep emotion. Mrs. T. Fugita
Rope Holder List
Dec. - Jan. - Feb.
CALIFORNIA Mrs. J. H. Yutes, 550.00; Mr. William
H. Board, J.50.
COLOKAUu Elbert Christian Church, $40.00.
FLORIDA Mrs. O. W. Haines, 510.00; DoLand
Christian Women's Fellowship, First Christian Church,
$50.00; Euslis Church of Christ, $108.33.
GEORGIA Mrs. Edward T. Lindsay, $5.00.
ILLINOIS Miss Fern McClelland, $10.00: Miss Mar-
tjuerite McClelland, $10.00; Mrs. Inez Stroud, $5.00;
Mr. Harry A, Leach, $76.00; Mrs. John W. OKlcaby,
$1.00.
INDIANA Columbus Christian Church, $50.00: Wa-
bash Bachelor Creek Missionary Society, $30.25;
Wabash Bachelor Creek Chuch, $30.00; Miss Grace
Poulton, $1.00; Mrs. Jasper Bowman, $1.00: Wabash
Kum-Join-Us Class, Treaty Christian Church, $50.00;
IndianaiKjlis Englewood Christian Church, $100.00;
Burnettsville Christian Church, 55.00: Sullivan Zel-
ma HurbaiiKh Missionary Society, First Christian
Church, $100.00.
IOWA Miss Bertha K. Sargent, $25.00; Council BlufTs
First Christian Church, $50.00; Mrs. Etma Beall,
$1.00; Miss Florence Brown, $1.00: Mr. and Mrs.
Harry R. Spear, 515.00; Hampton Church of Christ,
$20.00.
KANSAS Norton Christian Church, $58.90; Mrs. Roy
Pigeon, $2.00; Mrs. Virginia G. Templeton, $4.00; Miss
Ellen Lawrence, $10.00; Mr. Wallace Schreiber, $10.00;
Jennings Allison Christian Church, $40.00.
KENTUCKY Sadieville Women's Christian Mission
ary Society, $12.00; Mr. Thomas Omer, $10.00; Mrs.
Keller Wilson, $1.00,
MAINE Mr, William F. Brawn, $5.00,
MARYLAND Mt. Kanier Christian Church, $4.33.
MASSACHUSETTS Mrs. E. S. Donnell, $8.00.
MICHIGAN Miss Barbour Williams, $1.00.
MINNESOTA Mr. and Mrs. John Kendall, $20.00.
MISSISSIPPI Mr. E. Mildred Spahr, $1.00.
MISSOURI Mr. Chester A. Williamson, $1,00; Mrs.
T. J. Staggs, $.50.
MONTANA Mr. L. E. Gerginger, $50.50.
NEBRASKA Mr. Virgil Marshall, $250.00; Mr. Geo.
D. Thayer, $1.00; Mrs. Lillie Gorman, $2.00.
NEW YORK Mrs. S. S. Meyers, $1.00,
OHIO Glouster Loynl Daughters Class, $15.00; Miss
Mildred Covinglon. $5.00; MorristownHelping Hand
Society, $15.00; Steubenville-LaBeile View Church of
Christ, 510,00: FruzeyslmrgPerryton Church, $18.00;
Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Deem, $10.00; Mr. and Mrs. Albert
J. Schlyer, $10.00; Salom Phillips Christi.an Church,
$56,05: Saiem Loyal Sons and Daughters Bible Class,
$10.00; Columbus - Indianola Church of Christ, $100:
Dayton East Dayton Church of Christ, $5.00; Mrs,
Tura r. Theobald, $10.00; New Somerset Christian
Church Sunday School, $24.00: Morristown Primary
Class, Christian Church, $4.35; Mr. and Mrs. A. H,
Peifrey, $10.00; Morristown Church of Christ, $54,98;
Indian Run Sunday School, $22.74: Mrs. A. B. Slough
$1,00; Mrs. Huber J. Snyder, $1.00; Miss Irene R.
Mantle, $1.00; The Centerburg Church of Christ, $16:
Minerva ~ First Christian Church (In Memory of
E. J. Barber), $50.00; Mr. and Mrs. Harry G. Burris
$15.00; Mrs. Paul W. Bowers, $1.00; Mr. Fred S.
Thomas, $1.00; Columbus Southwood Church of
Christ, $30.00.
OKLAHOMA Mrs. M. J. Groom (In Memory of Mrs.
Sidney J. Davis), $15.00.
PENNSYLVANIA Confluence Prayer Group, Chris
tian Church, $10.00; Ellwood City First Christian
Church, $10.00; Fayelto City Church of Christ.
$10.00; Lnncnslcr Church of Christ, $10.00: Mr. and
Mrs. E. Wilmor Woods, $1,00; Tarentum Tarcntum
Christian Church Missionary Society, $10.00.
TENNESSEE Mr, and Mrs, J. H. Hodges, $5.00;
Johnson City Harrison Church of Christ, $25.00.
TEXAS Barstow Christian Church, $5.00; Mr. A T
DcGroot, $1.00.
VIRGINIA Mr. W. S, Winfrey, $50.00; Newport News
Colonial Place Church of Christ, $15,00; Staunton
Church of Chri.st, $10.70: Mrs. C. S. Wilson, $2.00'
Mrs. Mabel E. Griffin, 55.00; Mrs. H. C. Tucker, $1.00;
Waynesboro Christian Church, $14.09.
WASHINGTON Mrs. Lida F. Conover, $6.00.
Miss Elizabeth Furman, $5.00:
The raithful I'ollowers Class, Hooverson Heights
Church of Christ, $10.00.
CANADA Rfdgeton, Ont. ~ Church of Christ Sunday
School, $28.35,
MISCELLANEOUS Sale of books, $1.00.
Total Gifts $2,084.57
Brought forward 1,038.03
Transferred from reserve account
DISBURSED:
Salary of Mrs. W. D. Cunningham
for December $ 150.00
Stamps 8.80
Printing and mailing of
Tokyo Christian 277.75
Exchange .25
Annuity Interest Ssioo
Transferred to Tokyo for purpose of building
house for Andrew Patton 6,000.00
Balance on Hand
3,122.60
4,321.20
$7,443,80
6,472.80
$ 971.00
noble work. Sorry to hear of Mrs. W. D. Cunningham's
passing. Inclosed find 81.00 for the Tokyo Christian and
'The Flaming Torch'."
Paul A. Dornetlc, Ohio: "May God bless your people
in this noble undertaking."
TOKYO HlU!$TIAi\
"Mrs. Cunningham Ascends
To Heaven"
Under the above heading a Japanese newspaper, Nihon
Kelziii, published a lengthy article in appreciation of
Mrs. Cunningham's life and work. The excerpts given
below are from a translation by Toshio T. Noguchi. The
sub-heading is also interesting:
"Loved as "Mother"^A Missionary Devoting Her Life
ill Japan for over 50 Years Died too Early to be Honored.
Mrs. Emily B. Cunningham, 81 years old, came to
Japan with her husband, Mr. W. D. Cunningham, in
October of 1901 as missionaries. They were the first
missionaries who came to Japan at theii own expense.
Their baggage consisted only of some clothing, the Bible,
and printing press. They lived in a small house in
Koi.shikawa Ward in Tokyo and began their struggles in
the Japanese way of living. They even did work on the
side in order to continue as missionaries. They continued
their evangelistic work with their hard-earned money,
and offerings from donors in the States.
Two years after their arrival in Japan, their first
church was established in Wakaba Cho, called Wakaba-
cho Church of Christ." They taught English Bible classes
and English conversation, without tuition, three times a
week, besides their regular church services. Among their
liuiiils were many eminent Japanese, such as the late
Ambassador to the United Slates, Mr. Hiroshi Sailo, and
others in various professions. Th'j total number of pupils
could be calculated to bo well over a thousand.
After Mr. Cunningham's death in 1936, Mrs. Cunning
ham did not change her mind in choosing Jai>an as her
.second native country, and continued her evangelistic
work faithfully. She desired to remain in Japan even
after the outbreak of World War II, but was forced to
return on the last evacuation ship.
Immediately after the termination of World War II,
she again made arrangements to come to Japan. The
Government officials at first rejected her application
because of her old age, but her earnest desire convinced
them, and she was permitted to travel. She arrived in
Yokohama, Japan, in 1946, only to see the churches all
in ruins with the exception of one. The First Church
was rebuilt soon after, and the 50th anniversary was held
in October, in simplicity, in compliance with her desire.
Her close disciples wanted to have her sincere and
faithful efforts recognized and be honored by the Em
peror of Japan through the Government of Tokyo. "The
document was approved by the Government of Tokyo and
was submitted to the Ministry of Education for approval.
Her sudden death came too early for her to be honored.
In her teachings she reiterated that the command to
all Christians is: "Go ye, therefore, and tench all na
tions." Her life was devoted to this and she ascended to
Heaven in her second native country, Japan. Her ideal
of "simplicity and plainness in living and a spirit to
love your neighbors with motherly love" will remain
vividly in the hearts of those who have known her and
been blessed by her teachings.
(Translated from one of Tokyo's great newspapers.)
What Others Say
(Continued from Page 2)
Mrs. F, E. Rench, Indiana: "It made me very sad
to read of Mrs. Cunningham's passing, for we have lost
one of the finest Christian workjrs. She has certainly
.served her Lord in a most marvelous way. I have loved
her through the years and count it a great pleasure to
have known her. Just after the war she stayed with
us for two or three days. She told mc she had read the
New Testament through once a month for several years
.ind expected to do so for the rest of her life. 1 will
mis-s her articles in the Tokyo Christian and her personal
letters. Please keep my name of the mailing list."
Miss Irene Mantle, Ohio: "This Is to renew my sub
scription to the Tokyo Christian. Glad you will continue
jiublishing it. Was shocked and sorry to learn of Mrs.
Cunnigham's death. She had served long and well, the
dear soul"
A. T. DcGroot, Texas: "I always read with care each
Issue of the Tokyo Christian. Mrs. Cunningham once
wrote me. saying that old issues ai-c difficult to find
bccau.se of war destruction. It seems to me to Ijc of great
importance, especially since the death of Mrs. Cunning
ham. that we establish an historical memorial of her
work." (If any of you readers have or can find any
copies of the Tokyo Christian previous to December, 1946
please communicate with the editor giving dates you
have).
Mrs. Keller Wilson, Kentucky: "Sure was sorry to
read of Mrs. Cunningham's departure, hut her life
should bo an example to us. I'm sure she was ready and
well prepared to go to her Savior. You really do a
wonderful job editing the paper and I want to say a
personal 'thanks' to you."
Mrs. W. H. McDaniel, New Mexico: "Please keep me
on your mailing list for the Tokyo Christian. I get so
-paa^nT^jitno aScisod uijoj asn
Ba 'Hsa-JO sHJnx 'anuaav uatojg oiC 'siuis '3 'V
ijnon 3st!9id 'a(qcj9A!ppun s; sm) ija^scmisoa
Mission Property In Japan
Several people have asked about the property in Japan
since Mrs. Cunningham died.
The property in Tokyo wa.s all in the name of a non
profit corporation, properly registered with the Japanese
government, before Mrs. Cunningham died. She was the
director of the trustees of this corporation and Mr. and
Mrs. Stanley Buttray. Mr. and Mrs. Harold Sims, Mr.
Andrew Patton and Mr. Shin Hiinyu (one of the Jap
anese preachers) wore the other trustee.s. The property
will thus continue in this corporation and we simply
have to select another trustee as chairman. We are plan
ning to elect chairmen for one or two year periods
because of furloughs and other reasons.
As soon as the churches nrc spiritually and financially
qualified we are planning to release the church property
from the corporation to a Religious Corporation %vhieh
will hold the property in the name of the local church
in each place. One or two of the churches may be able
to receive their property shortly.
The missionary houses also belong to this corporation
and will be held by it. Funds held by the trustees in
America with headquarters in Atlanta, Ga., will be used
to pay taxes on these buildings. The Tokyo Bible Sem
inary property also belongs to this organization.
The missionaries will receive their living-link support
and offering direct, but will cooperate in the manage
ment of the property as trustees and also in the Tokyo
Bible Seminary as teachers. Harold Sims
FINANCIAL REPORT FROM TOKYO.
DISBURSEMENTS December, 1953.
Land and Property Tax $ 164.59
Telegrams 17.50
$ 182.09
September $ 148.11
October and November 708.32
December 182.C9
Total Disbursements $1,038.42
Received from View Park Church of Christ, Los Angeles,
Calif $ 35.00
For Yokosuka
Bank Balance. January 1 $1,242,49
Cash Balance, January 1 122.64
$1,365.13
DISBURSEMENTS January, 1954.
Property Repairs $ 29.15
Bank Balance, February 1 1,242.49
Cash Balance, February 1 93,48
$1,335.97
Received from Mrs, Buttray, February 17, 1954.
Funds forwarded to Mrs. Cunningham in Japan and
received by Miss Eloise Cunningham.
Loyal Women's Class of Christian Church, 4629 N. llth
Place, Phoenix, Arizona, per Mrs. H. C. Samuels, $8.
Underwriters' Club, Bethany Cl.ass, Indianola Church of
Christ, Columbus, Ohio, per Elma F. Stonerocfc, $40.
Minnie M. Diehl, Bioomingdale, Mich., $10.
Mrs. Roy Hobbs, Route 2, Cambridge City, Ind., 820.
Mrs. Virgil C. Kaser, 902 West Moreland, Phoenix.
Arizona. $50.
Karl Z. Wilking, P. O. Box 616, Owensboro, Kentucky,
$15.
Mrs. L. G. Tomlinson, 3736 West 58 Place, Los Angeles
43, Calif,, $5.
much news from it that I would not get otherwise. I
am sorry Mrs. Cunningham had to go. I have met her
a time or two and I thought she was an exceptionally
fine woman, and she was so good looking too, and so
smart. I enjoyed her writings .so much. Guess I should
have kept the last issue, as she had several items in it,
but I passed it on to a shut in. 1 thought she would like
to read and know also."
Jesse Musick, Jr., Tennessee: "We were shocked to
hear of the death of Mrs. Cunningham. From the time
I was a small boy in a preacher's home, I have known
of the wonderful activity carried on by the work there,
My prayer is that her loss may serve as an inspiration
to the other workers there and that the Lord might con
tinue to bring a rich harvest in Japan. I do appreciate
your interest in that work. May God bless you and the
good folk there in your ministry."
Mrs. Pauline Stewart, Ohio: "We are sorry to hear
of the passing of Mrs. Cunningham, but glad that she
has been called to receive the reward of her faithful
work for fifty and more years. We will continue to bo
interested in the missionaries associated with her, and
will help as we can to support their good work. We
would like to have at least '20 copies (or 30) of the
Tokyo Christi.nn for distribution among our people." (As
Treasurer, she sent a very liberal offering.)
Mrs. Paul Bowers, Ohio: "I am enclosing $1.00 for
The Flaming Torch and subscription to the Toyko Chris
tian. It has been coming in our home for such a long
time, it would seem strange indeed if we should stop
it. 1 rejoice with Mrs. Cunningham in her 'homegoing'
but feel like a great lender is gone also. Feel confident
the work will go forward in a consecrated way after
these years of training. Best of wishes to you in your
efforts for the coming year."
Elbert Holland, California: "We were really not sur
prised (when we got the news of Mrs. Cunningham's
death) as we had remarked on reading her last letter
to us that her age was showing. She had lived a long
life brimming over with service. As Wesley's tomb says:
'God buries His workers, but carries on His work.' So
long as there are men like you in the homeland and
men like your son willing to go to the field His work
will be carried on. As I told Brother Harrold McFarland
I will say of your work: 'It is on equal basis with that
of the ones who cross the water': that is the work of
keeping the mission conscience working. God bless you."
(I fee) that my work is very small in comparisonEd.)
Geo. D. Thayer, Nebraska: "May God bless you in your
Harrole McFarland
Box 968
Joliet, Illinois
(10)
n
-7
Tokyo
Christian
Vol. 53
"Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature," Mark 16:15
Kimbeclin Heights^ Tennessee, Ape., May, June, 195^
Mumber 2
TOKYO BIBLE SEMINARY
New School Year
The school year in Japan ends in March
and the new begins in April. We follow the
same custom in Tokyo Bible Seminary. When
we took an inventory of our students at the
end of the year, March 27, 1954, we found
that we had lost six students during the
year. Three graduated, one young man with
drew because of the financial condition of
his family, one girl student changed to an
other school, and one young man contracted
tuberculosis and was hospitalized. Three men
students transferred their credits from an
other school at the beginning of the second
semester in November, making the total num
ber of upperclassmen at the beginning of
the new year, in April, fourteen.
}utranee Ijl.vanilnatioins
The Seminary has adopted the Japanese
custom of requiring all applicants for entry
into the school to take an entrance exami
nation. Various purposes are served by this
examination! It helps to weed out the in
sincere and unworthy candidates, gives the
teachers some idea of the background of
the individual applicant, and indicates the
student's aptitude and past study in lan
guages. Each applicant is also required to
submit his national registration certificate,
three recommendations and his own state
ment of purpose for entering Tokyo Bible
Seminary. All of these are studied and placed
on file in the Seminary office.
Freshman Class, T954-1955, of Hie Tokyo Bible Seminary
Now Students
Six applicants passed the entrance exami
nation this year. Becau.se of lack of proper
edimational background to enable her to do
college level work one girl of this group was
asked to audit for one year before becoming
a regular student. One student who con
tracted tuberculosis and was forced to leave
the Seminary three years ago has recuperated
and returned to the school this year. One of
the Freshmen is blind but does well at his
studies in spite of his handicap. Four of the
Freshmen are from Tokyo, one from Kyushu,
one from Amani Oshima and one from Oki
nawa. These additions to the student body
bring the total enrollment to twenty-one.
Besides these, about twelve students are en
rolled in the evening classes and three part-
time students in the afternoon classes.
Convocation
Convocation exercises were held at the
Seminary on April 19th. Brother O. D. Bixler
who has been a missionary in Japan for
about thirty-five years, spoke on the theme
"The House of God." .....
Faculty
Twenty different subjects are being taught
in Tokyo Bible Seminary this year. Stanley
Buttray, Julius Fleenor and Andrew Patton,
missionaries, are teaching 5 total of twenty-
eight hours a week in the Seminary. Shin
Haniu, Stephen lijima and John Muto are
also teaching the same number of hours.
Mr. Takahashi and Mr. Kara are teaching
music four hours weekly.
Thanks
We wish to thank those who have con
tinued to support the individual students
and the school in general since September,
195,3. Two of our Freshmen yet need $10
each a month toward their support.
Future Plans
The present facilities of the Tokyo Bible
Seminary are inadequate. Now eleven rooms
must serve for dormitory space, study, li
brary, office, classrooms, dining room and
kitchen. To relieve our crowded condition
plans are being made for the construction
of an administration building and a house
of worship. The total cost of these buildings
including dormitory space for girls is not
expected to exceed thirty thousand dollars.
Already $5,500 dollars have been received
toward this project. If 500 persons or groups
would send $10 a month for five months
these buildings would be paid for. All con
tributions should be sent to Tokyo Bible
Seminary, 27 Sakurayama Machi, Nakano-Ku,
Tokyo, Japan, designated "Building Fund."
Andrew Patton
Japan Christian Convention
By all human standards of judgment the
Sixth Annual All-Japan Churches of Christ
Convention was certainly a success. This con
vention was held on the very southern tip
of Japan known as the Kagoshima District,
where the Mark Maxeys and Isabel Dittemore
are working.
This was a convention which I will not
soon forget. Leaving Tokyo Sunday noon with
Andrew Patton and Julius Fleenor we
boarded the train with only a few minutes
to spare. For thirty-four long, tiresome hours
we travelled by train; reading, studying,
talking, eating our lunches which we took
with us, and trying to get some sleep. For
we knew upon our arrival there would be
very little rest until our return home.
Arriving at 10:00 P.M. Monday evening,
too late to make contacts with Mrs. Dittemore
or Japanese Christians, we stayed at a Japan
ese hotel. The next morning was a very hap
py one,meeting for-the first imie"ln"~Slx
years, Carl Fish and his family. Carl and I
are from the same town, Meadville, Pennsyl
vania and the same church. Carl and hi.s
family had just arrived from Okinawa where
they are working as missionaries. "With him
were also three Okinawan Christians. This
was the first time for anyone from Okinawa
to attend these Annual Conventions. We trust
that this will be the beginning of a close
fellowship with each other from year to year.
Crossing the bay we finally arrived at
our destination, Kanoya. After eating dinner
with all of the missionaries we went directly
to the Japanese hotel where the convention
was to be held. There were about one hun
dred thirty-five present for the first service
and the attendance remained about the same
throughout the convention. Fourteen of this
number were from Tokyo. The Japanese
Convention was planned and carried out
completely by the Kyushu Japanese Chris
tians. Mark Maxey was the only missionary
who had a part in the program.
The Convention theme "Winning All People
to Christ" was an appropriate one as it dealt
with the heart of the Japanese church prob
lem. This theme was well expounded by ser
mon and discussion periods and was profit
able to all.
I believe that this convention will bring
forth fruit for a long time to come and that
it has been an exceeding great blessing to
the faith of those young Christians in Sout
hern Japan.
(Continued on page 2)
Page 2
THE TOKYO CHRISTIAN
Published quarterly by the Church of Christ Cunning
ham Mission, Tokyo, Japan, for the information and in
spiration of every Christian whose heart is open to the
call of Christ, and who is willing to help in the simreme
task of carrying out the Great Commission of Christ:
Matthew 28:19,20.
Entered as second class matter in the Kimberlin
Heights, Tenn., Postoffice under the act of March 3,
1879.
Two-Year Subscription 50 cents
Subscription and "Flaming Torch" $1.00
Alfred E. Sims .Editor
MISSION STAFF
Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Buttroy, 575 2-Chome, Kam-
iochiai, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo, Japan. Forwarding agent:
Mrs. Homer Anderson, R. D. 1, Meodville, Pa.
Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Patten, 450 Aroi Machi,
Nokano-Ku, Tokyo, Japan. Forwarding agent: Mr. or
Mrs. Roy Armstrong, Rt. 3, Box 310, Piquo, Ohio.
Mr. and Mrs. Harold Sims, Furlough address: 310
Brown Ave^ Turtle Creek, Pa. Forwarding agent: A. E.
Sims, 310 Brown Ave^ Turtle Creek, Po.
TOKYO BIBLESEMINARY
27 Sokurayamo, Nokono-Ku, Tokyo, Japan
TRUSTEES
Mr. T. O. Hathcock, Chairman, Lawrence Bain, Miss
Eva Green, Orvel C. Crowder, J. E. Lipscombe, Mrs. E. G.
Nabell, Alfred E. Sims.
Packages for Japan should be sent direct by parcel
post to one of the missionaries whose addresses are
shown above. Consult your local postoffice concerning
mailing rules and limitations of size and weight.
If you change your address please notify H. L.
Hamilton, Kimberlin Heights, Tennessee, giving both
your old and your new address. If you moke on offer
ing of $1.00 or more you ore entitled to receive this
paper If you so request. Churches or groups making an
offering of $10.00 or more may request a bundle of 10
copies for distribution.
Japan Christian Convention
(Continued from page 1)
Thursday afternoon ended the Japanese
Convention and Thursday night began the
second Annual Missionary Convention, which
ended in a banquet Saturday afternoon in
Kagoshima, the city across the bay where
Mrs. Dittemore and Mother Maxey live and
work. , .
There were a total of twenty-one persons,
including two teen-agers and a service man
from Nagoya as the convention opened that
night in the home of Brother Maxey. The
opening session was led by Martin Clark from
Osaka as he conducted the singing, (which
was wonderful) and spoke on the inspir
ational subject. "The Hour of Power." Other
persons who brought messages were Julius
Fleenor, Vivian Lemmon and Stanley But-
tray. Those in charge of devotions were Carl
Fish, Betty Whittington and Exie Fultz. The
discussions were led by Andrew Fatten, Jane
Kinnett, Ray Mings, Harold Cole and Martin
Clark. Besides the good received through the
messages, devotions and discussions, the fel
lowship in itself was truly a great blessing.
Most of the missionaries stayed over Sunday
and preached in the various churches both
morning and evening.
Just eight days after leaving Tokyo we
were on our way back, tired in body, but
enriched in spirit. Next year the convention
is to be held at Tanabe where Vivian Lem
mon is now working.
Stanley Buttray.
Mrs. Cunningham's Classes
Since the passing of Mrs. Cunningham
I have been teaching three of her classes at
the Yotsuya Church. The Tuesday Evening
Business Men's Class was 'organized about
two years ago. The Friday Evening class Mrs.
Cunningham started when she returned to
Japan in 1947. The atten'dance of the Tuesday
evening class is not so large as It was and
Tokyo Chcisiian
most of those who come now are all new ones.
They are not Christians and it is a wonderful
opportunity to teach them the love of Christ
and His saving power. The Friday evening
class is steadily growing with an average of
more than thirty every week. It is a real
joy and a blessing to teach these teen-agers.
Three of these young people have been bap
tized into Christ since the first of the year.
The Junior Church meets every Sunday
morning at 9 o'clock for Bible study and the
Lord's Supper. These young people all carry
their Bible and as the roll is called they
answer with the number of chapters of scrip
ture read jduring the week. This class i^
growing also and the rooms are filled to
overflowing in spite of many rainy Sundays.
We use the Favorite Hymns number one
in these classes and have a need for more of
them at this time. Any number could be used
to a great advantage.
As new members come into the class
they are given an English Testament and
there is a need for these at present. Your
contributions for Bibles for these classes
would be greatly appreciated.
M. Buttray.
Graduation
Graduation exercises of the Tokyo Bible
Seminary for the class of 1954 were held
at the Seminary on March 26th. The Bach
elor of Theology degree was granted to Mr.
Muto and Mr. Sudo, and the certificate in
Religious Education, marking the completion
of a two-year courser to Miss Seino.-Due to
family problems and other difficulties one
other young man who was scheduled for
graduation failed to complete his course of
study. This is the fourth graduating class
in the history of- Tokyo Bible Seminary.
Mr. John Muto was recruited and sent
to the Seminary by the Mabashi Christian
Mission. He has been ministering to the Ma
bashi Church of Christ since his Freshman
year in the Seminary. Several months ago he
was asked to become a teacher in the Semi
nary upon his graduation. After much prayer
and thought he finally decided to accept this
invitation. At the same time he will con
tinue to minister to the church at Mabashi.
We rejoice over this fine addition to our
family.
Mr. Sudo is another remarkable man.
Although he is an older man, he wants to
spend the remainder of his days on earth
as a servant of the Lord and of his people.
He ministers to the young church at Sako.
Upon his graduation from the Seminary he
accepted the position of cook and dormitory
superintendent for the Seminary. We are
happy that he too can continue his faithful
work in connection with his Alma Mater.
Miss Seino intended to complete the four-
year course offered by the Seminary. Due
to tragic circumstances in her family, how
ever, she felt that it was necessary for her
to return to her home in the north of Honshu
Island after the end of her second year.
Recently we received a letter from her in
which she told of starting a Sunday School
for the children of her home community.
She is continuing to apply the things which
she learned from the Word of the Lord
while she was in the Seminary. We pray that
her labors will succeed in guiding little feet
toward our Lord.
Graduation again this year brought both
joys and fears. Those of us who have tried
to patiently teach these students during their
many months of preparation tremble for joy
that others are trained in the precious truths
of the gospel. But when we further reflect
in the past, and turn searching eyes toward
the future, anxiety takes hold of us. Have
we really prepared our graduates to face the
problejms and responsibilities which wiU
necessarily be in their portion in the young
inexperienced churches or in untouched fields
in Japan? Will they seek to meet these
trying circumstances following the light that
falls in their path from the Word of God?
This is our ardent hope. We commend them
to God and the Word of His grace.
Andrew Fatten.
Simses To Return To Japan
Mr. and Mrs. Harold Sims expect to com
plete their furlough and return to Japan the
latter part of August. They have received
their passport, but have not yet received
their visas, neither have they been given a
sailing date, although they have had their
application with the steamship Co. for several
months. They need more funds for equip
ment, transportation and freight. See their
financial report elsewhere in this paper.
They would like to take back with them,
a good used piano, of as light weight as
possible. It would be much cheaper to take
it with them than to have it shipped to them
later.
Snnimary of the Financial Report tov the
Harold Sims Family from Sept. 1, 1053-
June 1, 1054
RECEIFTS;
Living-link $2121.67
General expense 5451.83
EXFENDITURES:
Automobile travel $1073.74
Train etc., travel 492.73
Fostage 31.75
Frinting 16.20
Equipment purchase 116.86
Tokyo Bible Sem 52;70
Life of Christ Viz 506.00
Medical 134.00
Crating and shipping 393.61
$2817.59
BALANCE $2634.24
The last item of expense is an indication
of how much it costs to go to Japan. At the
end of the school year in Cincinnati we
crated some of the things we had been ac
quiring all through the year and shipped
them to the West Coast before moving back
to Turtle Creek. Since we have friends who
will store them free of charge until August
we thought it would save money. This above
amount is what just that little bit cost us.
This will have to be transshipped and there
is yet other freight to move from Turtle
Creek. Our tickets will cost about $2200 plus
what It will cost to get to the West Coast
and a conservative estimate of our freight
cost would be $1200.
The item of medical expense does not in
clude minor doctor bills and visits to the
drug store, but hospital bills for Hope and
Sylvia's tonsilectomies and Lois's glasses.
The Chase Ave. Church of Christ in Cin
cinnati, Ohio, which was our church home
while there this year, has taken Hope, our
oldest girl, for a living-link at $600.00 a year.
We are very thankful for this, and proud
of what this great church is doing hoth at
home and abroad.
Harold Sims.
James Nogoi Called To
Yokosaka
James Nagai who graduated from our
Bible College two years ago was called to be
the fulltime pastor of the Yokosuka Church.
He accepted this invitation and began his
preaching ou March 21.
In the two years since his graduation he
has taken a wife, started a church in the
northern part of Japan, (with the assistance
of Chaplain Russell Barber) and on October
22, 1953 (my birthday) a daughter was born.
At present, due to the infancy and number
of members, the church is unable to meet
Mr. Nagai's financial need of $35.00 a month.
This is being met by the View Park Church
of Christ of Los Angeles, California. For this
assistance in establishing Christ's church in
Yokosuka we are truly thankful. My hope is
that other churches in America may catch
this vision also,
I am hoping that at the end of Mr. Nagai's
fir.st two years the church will have grown
and prospered enough that the money sent
by the View Park Church may be used to
help another church to he established.
I also want to thank the East Side Chris
tian Church of Columbus, Ohio for the of
fering sent recently towards the construction
of a much needed retaining wall in the rear
of the church.
As the Lord leads I am planning to start
a new church between now and next year
at this time. I say this because at that time
we will have finished our first five year
term in this mission field of Japan. Pray
for me that God will guide, direct and bless
in this new endeavor.
Stanley Buttray.
Financial Report For Buttrays
Submitted by Mrs. Homer Anderson,
Forwarding Secretary
Condensed by editor to conserve space
R^eipts for March, April and May
i^iving-Link Receipts $547.00
Mission Work Receipts 349.40
Mis.sion Expenses for March and April
stationery, postage, language, auto expense,
rip to Kyushu, helper, film, books, Yokosuka
;Not including living expenses)
Total Mission expenses $273.51
Tokyo Chcistian
Page 3
Tennessee Va Piuntlng Co. at^ of
Ndgai San, his wife end boby, with a few of the close to $100.00 per issue over the price we
members of the Yokosuko Church. The man with the had been nnvfn? Wp nnnrppintp thai,- will
white hat. In rear, is John Grovcr, stationed at the " paying, we appreciate tneii Wlll-
Naval Base. He Is going to help the church by ingness to do missionary work in this way.
teaching en English Bible Class. ,. , ,
Also we are glad to give more work to help
some folks to get a Christian education.
Fukuda Needs Prayer , 3
' A meeting of the Board of Trustees of
The last of February Fukuda san, one of the Church of Christ Cunningham Mission
our second year Bible College students had was held in Atlanta, May 28, 1954. The
two hemorrhages which was the first indi- trustees whose terras had expired were re-
cation that he or anyone else had that he elected for two years. Officers were elected
had contracted T. B. However. I had noticed as follows: T. O. Hathcock. President; A. E.
that he didn't look so well hut thought that Sims, Vice-Presldent; J. E. Lipscomb, 2nd
it might be only worms. For it had only been Vice-President; Miss Eva D. Green, Secre-
a few weeks before that he took medicine tary-Treasurer.
for worms. This is one of the prevailing We do not have a copy of the minutes
problems of the Japanese as well as the at hand, but one of the main topics for dis-
ra^issionaiies:- - - cusaiou was the matter of new missionaries.
This was quite a shock to me as I am Mrs. Cunningham's death and the fact that
sure it was to everyone else. I had been re- ^ furlough for the Buttrays is due next year
sponsible for his entering Bible College and "lakes us concerned about more missionaries
for more than a year Fukuda san had been ^ committee was named to try
helping me in church at Yokosuka. It is only suitable missionaries. But this is a
natural that he was closer to me than the omtter calling for very earnest prayer. Every
other students. missionary should hear and answer the call
we were very happy when Fukuda san
was permitted to enter a hospital here in aceor ing to s will.
Tokyo within three weeks after he became Harold
ill and also that the Ward in which the Bible f'"' ""T ^ lurlongh and expecting to re-
College Is located has promised to pay his '5,'; ^Oth, and
1 ma. c . . s, , also Miss Eloise Cunningham, who snoke of
hospital expenses. The doctor has diagnosed . , s , uu opuRc
It as a light case and this has given us the
hope that he might he recovered within six "f Medal
months. At present he is taking PAS every '<> Mrs. Cunningham
j j .p a , a J , j a.. posthumously by the Emperor,
day and streptomycin twice a week and his
condition does seem to be improving. '
Please remember Fukuda san in your Patton Financial Report'
prayers and all the other students that they (September 1, 1953-Mny 1, 1954)
will be able to throw off the vicious attack September 1. 1953 Living-Link
of this dreaded disease in order to have the on Hand $ 420.00
physical strength to labor for our Lord Jesus September 1, 1953 General Expense
Christ In th's Far East portion of His Vine- on Hand 384.75
yard. Living-Link Received 9/1/53-
I want to thank the First Christian 5/1/54 1255.00
Church of Erwin, Tennessee for their kind General Expense Received 9/1/53-
thougiufulness to Fukuda san in his illness. S/1/54 947.32
After spending almost three years in the TOTAL RECEIPTS $3007,07
T. B. Sanatorium, Yamada san, a Korean, Living-Link Disbursed $1600.00
has re-entered our Bible Seminary. He is General Exp. Disbursed 641.75
one of the first seven persons I had the
privilege of seeing become a Christian at TOTAL DISBURSEMENTS $2241.75
Yokosuka. So of course we are very happy
for his return. However, there is danger of CASH ON HAND MAY 1, 1954 $ 765.32
Fukuda Needs Prayer
The last of February Fukuda san, one of
our second year Bible College students had
two hemorrhages which was the first indi
cation that he or anyone else had that he
had contracted T. B. However. I had noticed
that he didn't look so well but thought that
it might be only worms. For it had only been
a few weeks before that he took medicine
for worms. This is one of the prevailing
problems of the Japanese as well as the
ra^issionaries:- - -
This was quite a shock to me as I am
sure it was to everyone else. I had been re
sponsible for his entering Bible College and
for more than a year Fukuda san had been
helping me in church at Yokosuka. It is only
natural that he was closer to me than the
other students.
We were very happy when Fukuda san
was permitted to enter a hospital here in
Tokyo within three weeks after he became
ill and also that the Ward in which the Bible
College is located has promised to pay his
hospital expenses. The doctor has diagnosed
it as a light case and this has given us the
hope that he might be recovered within six
months. At present he is taking PAS every
day and streptomycin twice a week and his
condition does seem to be improving.
Please remember Fukuda san in your
prayers and all the other students that they
will be able to throw off the vicious attack
of this dreaded disease in order to have the
physical strength to labor for our Lord Jesus
Christ In th's Far East portion of His Vine
yard.
I want to thank the First Christian
Church of Erwin, Tennessee for their kind
though!fulne.ss to Fukuda san in his illness.
a recurrance for at least a year after Andrew and Betty Patton
Page 4
Financial Report For Tokyo
Bible Seminary
(September 1, 1958-May 1, 1954)
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Jan.
Feb.
Mar.
April
Receipts
$ 448.31
163.03
173.17
200.93
691.13
332.20
587.13
568.35
TOTAL $3,154.25
TOTAL, RECEIPTS
TOTAL EXPENSES
BALANCE MAY 1, 1954
SUBMITTED BY:
Mrs. Andrew Patton, Treas.
Peter Itagaki
Expenditures
%
356.09
125.58
474.88
308.87
203.23
508.24
237.78
$2,214.67
$3,154.25
2,214.67
$ 939.58
Here in Japan adopting a person to carry
on the family name and business is not an
unusual thing. About four years ago a young
man by the name of Peter Itagaki was
adopted by his uncle. Peter had just finished
his high school education and was ready
either to go to college or work when his
father's brother (who was childless) desired
a son in order to insure the continuation of
both his business and name. Consequently,
Peter soon had a new home.
Peter's new father was very happy. Im
mediately plans were made for Peter to go
to Tokyo to learn the watch repair business,
to prepare him for his father's business.
When Peter arrived in Tokyo he found a
place to live in the Mabashi district. Finding
a church nearby he began to attend the
services. This is the church where Miss Farn-
ham is working as a missionary and John
Muto (graduate of our Bible College)
preached. It wasn't long before Peter under
conviction became a Christian and a very
zealous worker in the church.
Just before time for Peter to return home,
his father expecting an increase in business,
went to the expense of enlarging the store.
To Peter this was quite a homecoming. Just
think, someday it would all be his, house,
business, and all. Most young men would
have been satisfied and happy over such a
situation, but Peter soon became restless.
His foster parents were not Christians and
he could nof~Yind a church wEicE~ineniis
conception of a New Testament congregation.
During this time the Lord was working
on Peter's heart through His Word and the
testimony of Mr. Muto's life. For at that time
Mr. Muto was a fourth year student in the
Bible College and very zealous for the Lord.
Consequently, a growing desire came into his
heart to be a full time preacher and this
brought him face to face with the most im
portant decision of his life.
What would he do? If he entered the
Bible Seminary, it meant leaving his foster
parents and probably disinheritance. But if
he should decide to stay with his parents he
would be very unhappy by not being able
Tokyo Ckvisiian
to do as he believed the Lord wanted him
to do. What would you do?
Peter made his decision. Went to his
foster parents, told them the desires of his
heart. Naturally, they were shocked and at
first firmly opposed to such an idea, but
later were reconciled enough to tell Peter,
"If that is really what you want to do, we
will not stop you."
So Peter, making his plans to enter the
Bible Seminary returned to Tokyo and be
came a freshman with the opening of the
first semester in April 1952. Now, Peter is a
Junior and one of our finest. He has been
very active in the Mabashi Church from the
very beginning. Besides preaching, he has
helped in many evangelistic meetings and
summer camps. And just recently his real
parents and other relatives have shown a
better spirit toward him and are becoming
interested in the Word of God.
How we thank God and our Lord Jesus
Christ that there are yet young men who,
experiencihjg the love of Christ in their hearts
and seeing the spiritual darkness all about
them, have willingly given up material riches
for the privilege of preaching the blessed
Gospel of Christ unto the spiritual riches of
those who shall be saved.
Stanley Buttray.
Interes^i ng Letters
Mrs. Robt. Powell, Va."Please send four
copies of "The Flaming Torch." I have had
a copy for a iong time, and it is so worth-
whlie! I am truly glad the Tokyo Christian
wasn't discontinued. We have enjoyed read
ing it for years. You are certainly doing a
grand job as editor.
Leslie Duncan, Kansas"I am financial sec
retary for our church. We have some who
have been supporting the Cunningham Mis
sion. As I understand it, the three missions
(Buttray, Patton, Sims) are operating sep
arately and also the Bible Seminary. I would
like to get more specific information re
garding the size of the missions and the
Seminary, and their means of support (whet
her all individual, or from churches, or any
from U. C. M. S.). Also information re
garding their soundness in Christian teaching.
I wish this information for myself and others,
and believe that a forthright statement will
be of help in securing more support for these
missions."
Editorial answer: We thank you for your
interest and gladly give the information, as
others may also need help. First I think
you have a little misapprehension about there
being "three missions." These three mission
ary families are all a part of the Church of
Christ Cunningham Mission. The difference
is that they now receive their support di
rectly or through their own forwarding agents
Instead of being paid from a general fund.
All of the missionaries co-operate in the work
of the mission, evangelizing and training
Japanese preachers in the Bible Seminary.
Each of the Missionaries has his own living
link church or churches. But there are a
lot of operational expenses in addition tc
living expenses. They have faith that the
Lord will supply these also, and He does
usually through offerings from individuals
churches, or other groups. No help or support
at all comes from the U. C. M. S. They arc
direct support missionaries (More truly sc
now than formerly). They need your prayei
support also.
As to the soundness of the Christiar
faith and teaching of these missionaries, il
is unquestionable. I know them all person
ally. They were all educated at either At
lanta Christian College or Cincinnati Bible
Seminary, or both, and I don't know a bettei
background.
As to the size of the Cunningham Mis
sion, there were 12 churches before the war
All the buildings but one were destroyed
during the war and most of the members
were scattered. Since the war they have beer
diligently rebuilding, so that today there are
13 churches, ranging in membership from 15
to 250. Perhaps the most significant develop
ment since the war is the Tokyo Bible Semi
nary. It is growing but still small. It has
about 25 or 30 students, all training foi
the ministry or Christian leadership. Alreadji
there are some 12 or 15 or more young
Japanese preaching the Gospel as a result.
The churches established are New Testament
churchesnot in the Union Federation.
Please Fill Out
And Mail To
A. E. SIMS
310 Brown Ave. TURTLE CREEK, PA.
.19.
Please place me (or keep me) on the mail
ing list to receive the new quarterly Tokyc
Christian, (check either 1 or 2.)
1. I have sent or will send within the
year an offering of $1.00 or more a. to the
General Fund, or b. to Tokyo Bible Seminary
or c. to one of the missionaries listed on page
2 of this paper.
2. I enclose herewith 50c for each sub
scription.
Name
Address
Please place (or keep) this church, o
organization, on the mailing iist to receivi
the new quarterly Tokyo Christian. We haw
sent or will send within the year an offerinj
of $10.00 or more to the General Fund, o
Tokyo Bible Seminary, or to one of the mis
sionaries listed on page 2 of this paper
Please send 1 10 copies "(check which;
Name
Address
Tokyo Christian
"Go ye into all the world and preach the'gospel to every creature." Mark 16:15
ol. 53 Kimberlin Heights, Tennessee. September, 1954 Number 3
i-udent In
merico
Betty Slatsnki
This is Betty Matsuki, one of the mem-
rs of the Junior Church at Yotsuya who
11 be studying in the states for the next
\v years. She plans to attend John Hay
gh School in Cleveland for one year and
en enter Oberlin College next fall.
Betty became a Chri.stian through the
aching of Mrs. Cunningham and was bap-
:ed on February 23, 1953, Mrs. Cunning-
in's eightieth birthday. Since then she has
en living a faithful, earnest Christian life,
e covet your prayers for Betty while she
'OS in a strange land away from her family
d friends, Perhaps some of you would like
correspond with her to give her words of
couragemcnt and sotno of you who live
ar could have her visit with you in your
line. Her present address is:
Miss Betty Mal.suki
c/o Harlan "W. Hamilton
3016 Lincoln Boulevard
Cleveland Heights 18, Ohio
There is still a need for Favorite Hymns
iniber 1. If you have a few not in use
ease send them for use in our Friday Even-
g Bible Class and Junior Church on Sunday.
Mabel Buttray
Nothing is easier than fault-finding. No
lent, no character, and no brains are re-
lired to set up a .griping business.
Simses Reach Tokyo
Earlier Than Expected
Harold and Lois Sims and their three
children reached Tokyo Airport at 9:17
Sunday, Sept. 12. That was almost two hours
ahead of schedule. The pilot was probably
trying to get there before the typhoon struck,
which he did. As a matter of fact the typhoon
didn't amount to much in the Tokyo area,
although it was quite destructive in the
southernmost part of Japan.
They were all well and the next day after
their arrival was the beginning of the school
term, so they started Hope in the Japan
Evangelical Christian School. She liked it a
lot. Mrs. Isabel Dittemore was there from
souihern Japan to enter her daughter in the
same school, and several other missionaries
send their children there.
The following missionaries were at the
airport to meet tlie Simses: Stanley Buttray,
Andrew Patton, Isabelle Dittemore (from
South Japan), Julius Fleenor, Paul Clark
ffrom Osaka), and Mr. and Mrs. Bob West.
There was a general get-together (A lai'ge
Crowd) at the Patton Home to extend a wel
come.
It will probably be several weeks before
their furniture reaches Tokyo, so they are
still unsettled. However they are happy en
joying the hospitality of the other mission
aries. There are many problems to face and
they earnestly solicit your prayers. We give
God humble thanks and praise because they
arrived safely and well, after a lovely trip
by plane with a two-day stopover in Hawaii.
A. E. S.
On Arriving in Japan
The differences between Japan and Amer
ica are brought forcibly to one's attention
when he travels by plane. To step from the
streets of California, lined with beautiful
lawns, trees and homes and filled with nice
cars running in line, into the streets of
Tokyo, lined with small shops of all de.s-
criptions and walls around all houses and
filled with people and vehicles of all kinds
running on the wrong side (to us) is a sharp
shaking and sudden change. It didn't take
us but a few minutes and a few words to
know that we were in Japan.
After 14 months and 12 days away there
seemed to be little in Japan, but a lot of
change in us. Everybody noticed my extra 20
pounds and remarked on the benefit of living
In prosperous, sweet-toothed America.
(Continued on page 3)
I, Sharon Lee Patton, was born July 30th
at the Tokyo Sanitarium Hospital. At the
time of my birth I weighed 7 pounds, 9
ounces, but now wei.gh 10 pounds. I am
growing rapidly on my formula of Japar.oso
Milk Maid milk and Japanese Nurtlogen
(dextrose).
The weather here in Tokyo has been very-
hot and consequently I have a very bad heat
rash. Everyone seems to have had trouble
keeping cool. Since my arrival I have wit
nessed my first typhoon but it was not a
bad one. We only had 6 0 mfies an hour winds
and it only lasted for a few hours with heavy
rains. I also attended my first, church service
on August 22nd at the Sakiirayama Church
of Christ which meets in the Seminary build
ing just next door to our house. My feeding
time is at 10 A.M. but mother hurries me
up and we rush to get to church on time.
Daddy usually attends different churches and
helps each one as they need spiritual guid
ance.
My parents and I wish to thank all of you
who have sent me clolhing, gifts of money
and congratulation cards and letters. You
have been very kind to me.
As I am one of the youngest missionaries
on the field, my support per year is not as
much as others. So I am trusting that Chris
tian people who know of my parents and
their work, will considor me worthy of sup
port and take me as their Living-link mis
sionary to help provide for my physical needs.
I need ?50 per month or $600 per year. At
present my milk costs 22c per can and soon
I will need baby food which must be im
ported and therefore the cost is much higher.
Also as I grow older this amount will help to
take care of my schooling (rxpenses.
WILL YOU HELP ME? -Sharon Leo Patton
THE TOKYO CHRISTIAN
Published quarterly by the Church of Christ Cunning-
horn Mission, Tokyo, Japan, for the information and in
spiration of every Chrlstlon whose heart is open to the
call of Christ, and who Is willing to help In the si^reme
task of carrying out the Great Commission of Christ:
Matthew 28:19,20.
Entered as second closs matter in the Kimberlin
Heights, Tenn., Postoffice under the act of March 3,
1879.
Two-Year Subscription 50 cenfs
Subscription and "Flaming Torch" - $1.00
Alfred E. Sims Editor
MISSION STAFF
Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Buttroy, 575 2-Chome, Kom-
iochiol, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo, Japan. Forwarding ogent:
Mrs. Homer Anderson, R. D. 1, Meodvllle, Pa.
Mr. ond Mrs. Andrew Potton, 27 Sokuroyama, Na-
kono-Ku, Tokyo, Jopan. Forwarding ogent: Mr. or
Mrs, Roy Armstrong, Rt. 3, Box 310, Piquo. Ohio.
Mr. and Mrs. Harold Sims, 450 Aral Machi, Nokano-
Ku, Tokyo, Jopcn. Fordwarding agent: A. E. Sims, 310
Brown Ave., Turtle Creek, Po.
TOKYO BIBLE SEMINARY
27 Sokuroyama, Nokono-Ku, Tokyo, Japan
TRUSTEES , ...
Mr T. 0. Hothcock, Choirmon, Lawrence Bain, Miss
Eva Green, Orvel C. Crowder, J. E. Lipscombe, Mrs. E. G.
Nabell, Alfred E. Sims.
Packoges for Japan should be sent direct by parcel
post to one of the missionaries whose addresses are
shown above. Consult your local postoffice concerning
mailing rules and limitations of size ond weight.
If you change your address please notify H. L.
Hamilton, Kimberlln Heights, Tennessee, giving both
your old and your new address. If you make an offer
ing of $1.00 or more you ore entitled to receive this
poper If you so request. Churches or groups moking on
offering of SIO.OO or more may request a bundle of 10
copies for distribution.
EDITORIALS
It has been brought to our attention
from several sources that one (who bears
a highly respected name but who left the
Church of Christ or Christian Church to be-
como a member of a denominational church)
has been soliciting funds for "The work of
Mrs. Cunningham." We do not beiive for a
moment that God called Mrs. Cunningham
from this life before her work was done.
She did an outstanding work, which lives on
and shall continue to live, by the grace of
God. But it is utterly impossible for anyone
else to "do the work of Mrs. Cunningham."
Of course the Work of Christ in Tokyo for
which Mr. and Mrs. Cunningham devoted
their lives goes right on. Since Mrs. Cunning
ham died last Christmas, the classes that
had been taught by her have been taken
care of by Mrs. Mabel Buttray in a very
acceptable way and with the result that
many from the classes have been baptized
into Christ. The six missionaries, listed under
"Mission Staff" on page two of this paper
are devoting their lives to carrying on the
work of the Church of Christ Cunningham
Mission and any gifts or offerings intended
for this mission should be sent to them or
to their forwarding agents, or to Tokyo Bible
Seminary. All addresses are found on Page 2,
Column 1.
Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Andrew
Patlon! A blessing has come to their home in
Lhc birth of a daughter, Sharon Lee. We
trust that the requested living link support
for her will be forthcoming. Here is a chance
for some church to gain increased interest
by taking on. a definite missionary project
that will meet a real need.
Also we would like to suggest that more
offerings he sent to the Buttray family as
thoy will probably be having some extra
expense. Their furlough will be due next
year and we know that means a lot of extra
expenses.
Tokyo Christian
Service Man Helps
BUI Claycomb
Since May of this year Airman Billy Clay-
oomb of Sacremento has been helping me with
my classes at Yotsuya. Two days after he
arrived in .Japan he called asking if there
wa.s some way he could help in the work
here. We were more than happy to accept
his offer. While we were in the mountains
this summer Bill was able to continue my
classes at Yotsuya.
After his discharge from the service next
year Bill and his wife plan to enter San
Jose Bible College to prepare for the mini
stry. Such young men are a real testimony
and a witness for Christ to the Japanese and
they are all too few. We praise the Lord
for such young men who are willing to use
their spare time in doing missionary work.
Mabel Buttray
New Seminary Building
Planned
The establishment of the Tokyo Bible
Seminary in 1948 marked the beginning of a
new phase of evangelism done by the Church
of Christ Cunningham Mission. This preacher-
training institution was founded on and is
dedicated to the grand proposition that the
Word of God is the only legimate and effect-
iveinstrument for saving the world and for
uniting and edifying the Church. Her faculty
stands on this principle and the labors in
the gospel of her students and graduates
show that they practice it. No further argu
ment need be advanced to justify the exist
ence of Tokyo Bible Seminary nor to com
mend her to those who love the Lord as
worthy of their support.
Until now the only facilities available
for the use of the Seminary has been a two-
story building 30' x 60* which has served as
office, classrooms, library, study, chapel,
men's dormitory, kitchen, dining room and
bath. But now this building has become in
adequate for both housing and training the
students, for wo must soon convert the pres
ent Seminary building into a men's dormi
tory. This will necessitate the construction of
an additional administration building.
We now have no housing facilities what
ever for women students. Consequently, I he
number of women who are able to attend
the Seminary are confined to those who can
commute to school from their homes. Tokyo
Bible Seminary is badly in need of a girls'
dormitory.
The school is also in need of a house of
worship. Such a building could serve as a
meeting house for the Sakurayama Church
of Christ located in the vicinity of the Semi
nary and as a chapel and conference room
for the Seminary. A house of worship for
Tokyo Bible Seminary is a necessity.
The estimaled total cost of administration
building, girls' dormitory and chapel is
$30,000. We propose to build the admini
stration building just as soon as funds are
on hand. The girls' dormitory and chapel
will be constructed later as funds permit.
Tentative plans have been drawn up for
an administration building 30' x 72' consisi-
Ing of two stories and a basement. The total
cost of this hulldliig will be approximately
$20,000 and the total space will he 180
"tsubo," one tsubo equaling approximately
36 sq. ft. Therefore, each "tsubo" will co.sl
approximately $112, one sq. ft, approximately
$3.10.
Tokyo Bible Seminary is YOUR schnol
training Japanese young people Cor Chri.silan
leadership. She has no group of moneyed
men to endow or support her but in faith she
depends on the sacrificial free-will gifts of
God's servants to supply her needs. There
fore, we beseech you, the friemds and sup
porters of this Seminary to give saerifirially
for this project. In so doing, you will be
giving vital assistance to an institution which
champions the cause of Christ and holds Him
forth as the only rightful Savior and Lord
to a wicked, dying world. Make your checks
payable to Tokyo Bible Seminary, 27 Sakur
ayama, Ntkano Ku, Tokyo, Japan, designated
"building fund."
May our God give you a heart of grace
and benevolence in responding to this appeal.
Thanks be to God for his unspeakable gift!
Andrew Patton, Pres.
Seminary Name
It has been brought to our attention that
the U. C. M. S. bulletin "Leaven" lists under
"Union Projects Entered" a Tokyo Bible Sem
inary, established in 1946, as one of a number
of new accomplishments of the U. C. M. 8.
Authoritie sof the U. C. M. S. in Tokyo have
assured us that the U. C. M.. S. has no such
school connected with their organization and
that there is some mistake concerning this
name. Since the U. C. M. S. is connected with
the Union Church of Japan (Kyodaii). they
furnish one teacher for the JAPAN BIBLE
SEMINARY, a Kyodan-sponsored school lo
cated at Mejiro. But the Tokyo Bible Sem
inary has no affiliations whatsoever with the
United Christian Missionary Society.
Andrew Patton
On Arriving in Japan
(Continued from page ] )
Since we arrived on Sunday morning I
was immediaetly asked to preach at the
Nakano Church that night. I found that I
had lost a great deal of my Japanese lan
guage facility, but I managed to make a
short talk, and after the service we had an
informal welcome meeting at which grapes,
rice cookies and tea were served.
Until our baggage and freight arrives we
do not feel entirely settled yet, but at least
we are here. We are staying temporarily with
the Biiitrays. and have been trying to work
out various problems about where we shall
live and other related questions.
Wo thank God for the safe trip across all
those miles of water. Also we still thank
Him for the many happy months of our
furlough at home, and the strength and en
couragement he has given us. We're thankful
too for the good and faithful group here,
doing so much to help us get settled and
giving us such a cordial welcome. The fellow
ship and friendship of our eo-lahorers among
tlio missionaries here in Japan is highly ap
preciated. As we meet to pray and talk to
gether about the many problems and decisions
we must make, we miss Mrs. Cunningham,
but we to whom the mantle has fallen are
knit closer together as we try humbly to
serve Christ and to do what is right in His
sight.
On the first day we were in Japan a
problem came up concerning one of the Jap
anese ministers.-- He had recommended a
young Christian girl to work for a doctor,
who (she learned later) was an abortionist.
When she told the minister about conditions
there he still advised her to stay. But through
much prayer and frank talking the mistake
was seen and acknowledged and reconcili
ation made between those who had become
very angry. We thank God for this answer
to prayer.
Please pray for us without ceasing.
Harold Sims
450 Aral Machi
Nakano-Ku
Tokyo, Japan
A tape recording of some of the work of
the Church of Christ Cunningham Mission
is available from A. H. Sims, Turtle Creek.
Pa. Also we are expecting a set of slides con
cerning this work to be available in another
month or so from Mission Services, Box 9G8,
.Toliot, Illinois.
Prayer Being Answered
Although waiting the doctor's latest word.
It looks as though Fukuda-san will be able
to leave the hospital by the end of September,
for whh'h we are truly thankful.
lie has been very patient during the six
nonths of hospitalization and has learned
;he hard way what a T. B. patient must go
hrough. Perhaps through this experience and
rial, God is preparing Fukuda san for a
nuch greater service among the sick in the
'ears that are ahead. Please remember him in
'our prayers, not only for his physical need
Tokyo Christian
of complete deliverance from all effetcs of
T. B. but that he also shall continue in his
growing more like the master. We are hoping
that he will be able to return to the Bible
Seminary this month and continue his studies
at the beginning of the second semester.
Stanley Buttray
Patten Residence
tin
mmm
New Mission House
Plans for a house for our use were begun
last December. Andrew and I spent many
winter hours designing the building which
was built on the same lot as the Seminary,
27 Sakurayama Machi. After the plans were
completed, it was hard to find a company
who would build the house at a reasonable
price because we were foreigners. (All for
eigners are rich in the sight of most Japan
ese.) The building was ready for our oc
cupancy on June 4th.
The house is a one-story framed building
with tiled roof. It is 24 feet wide and 48
feet long. It has 2 bedrooms, living room,
dining room, study, bath, kitchen, and utility
room. The ceilings and woodwork are of ma
hogany Imported from the Philippines which
is much cheaper than the Japanese native
woods. The living room has 12 feet of sliding
doors and faces the South so as to utilize
all of the sun's heat In the Winter. Every
room has a gas outlet. We have an oil heater
but last year we were unable to obtain oil
for heating purposes. So gas outlets were
installed for emergency use only. The gas
company wanted to charge $10 a mouth
minimum meter fee because of so many out
lets. After much discussion we persuaded
them to put in a $5 meter.
The Genkan. or entrance into our house is
a very necessary feature of a house in Japan.
This .space is used to take off shoes and put
on house slippers before entering the house
proper. Instead of blinds and curtains, we
have shoji, papered windows or doors that
slide on a separate track on the frame Inside
of the regular glass door or window. These
will also help keep out much cold during
Winter. The bath, kitchen, and utility room
are tiled as tile Is inexpensive in Japan.
As we do not have a girl's dormitory at
the Seminai-y, one bedroom is occupied by a
girl student from Amai Oshima. The living
room and dining room is spacious and there
fore we can easily accomodate teachers' meet
ings, preachers' meetings and missionary get-
togethers.
Soon we hope to have a Japanese garden
which is an imponant part of every home.
Page 3
The gardens are composed of small trees,
shrubs and rocks. The Japanese do not plant
grass and therefore sweep their small yards
as we sweep the kitchen floor.
For this home which has been provided
for us by Mission money, we are very tbank-
ful. We pray that it will be used greatly
of God in His service.
Betty Patton.
Seminory Notes
The summer recess at Tokyo Bible Semi
nary began on July 11th and will end on
Sept. 13th. During the vacation the students
and teachers of the Seminary went their var
ious ways, serving the Lord.
John Muto. a Seminary teacher, procured
a passport and went to Okinawa to help in
summer camps and to conduct evangelistic
meetings among the churches there. The ex
penses of his trip were paid by the Okinawan
Christians and Mr. Muto's home church at
Mahashi in Tokyo. We have received very
good reports of Mr. Muto's work on Okinawa.
He returned to Tokyo via Kyushu before
school began.
Mr. Haniu. Seminary dean, served as
camp manager during the two weeks of camp
held by the churches in Tokyo. The camp
this year was held at Karuizawa, a mountain
resort about 100 miles north of Tokyo.
Mr. Stephen lijlma, Seminary teacher, and
his wife met with misfortune this summer.
Earlier in the summer they adopted a baby
boy, now 17 months old. Since the boy's
health was not as good as it should be, the
lijimas decided "to give him a medical exami
nation. The doctor found that the boy had had
tuberculosis for some time. Of course, that
was a terrible shock to the new father and
motlier, but through their characteristic faiih
and patience they have nursed him until he
is well on his way to recovery.
Mr. Daikusono and Mr. Mori, Seminary
students, returned to help in evangelistic
efforts in tiieir own home districts, while
Mr. Hara has been assisting in the work of
his own home congregation at Tanabe. Mr.
Saito, blind student, has been visiting his
folks and home town in Hokkaido to preach
the gospel to them. Mr. Kim entered a ho.s-
pital and is receiving some medical treatment.
Mr. Yainada has a serious back ailment but
perhaps will not he able to receive medical
treatment until October. Mr. Fukuda. who
lias been hospitalized since the first of the
year for tuberculosis, is much better and
possibly will he able to leave the hospital in
September. Some students have been work
ing during the summer in preparation for
school and at the same time have been carry
ing on their church work. Other students
have been repainting the interior of the Semi
nary building and conducting daily vacation
Bible Schools. So we have had a busy and.
we hope, a fruitful summer. But since the
summer heat is almost over and our bodies
have received the benefit of this short rest,
we are looking forward to a zealous renewal
of our studies on Sept. 14th. We shall work
to make every remaining day of this school
year count for the Lord.
Andrew Patton
Tokyo Christian
Sims Family
Pride, Love, Gratitude,
Knd Heartaches!
As I write this my heart is heavy. I have
list said goodbye to my son. Harold and his
'ainily, including our only grandchildren. We
iro not expecting to see them again for an-
)lher five years. It was more than GVi years,
ho first term. Let no one tell you it is
>asy thus to part with those you love. BUT,
hoy are in the service of the KING, and
lioy feel that when He calls they dare not
ail to answer. They are most grateful for
ho wonderful privileges, opportunities, ex-
iioriences and joys that have been theirs
luring their furlough year. They know from
experience that life in this country is far
more enjoyable and desirable for many rea
sons than that in Japan, but feel unmistak-
xbly that the Lord's work for them is in
Japan where more than 39% of the popu
lation is still unchristianized. They feel that
with their experience, and having learned
Lhe language, God will be able to use them
Dvcn more effectively than He did during
Lheir first term of service. There may be
something of pride but more of gratitude
to God for the consecration that impels
those who are near and dear to tis to devote
their lives in service to Christ, wherever
He may call. This may be the compensation
of love.
Surely a fellow can be pardoned for being
a little proud of his Grandchildren, especially
when they came from the other side of the
world and still seemed right at home when
they got here. It was wonderful to have
them with us from time to time during the
year, and it really made the heart ache to
Imve to part with them again. But such is
life! We begin to look forward again to their
next furlough. We are thankful and filled
with gratitude that we could have them with
u.s during the precious days that they were
here. Our earnest prayer is that God will
bless them and be with them till we meet
again.
It was Aug. 20 that they left us for their
journey to the west coast. The ship was to
leave San Francisco Sept. 10, but the sailing
date has been postponed. They have several
appointments along the way, and they will
have many details to look after before leav
ing the United States.
It has been a very busy year for them
really it was just a little over 13 months
from the time they arrived at home till they
left home again. They will have travelled
well over 30.000 miles. Harold has probably
averaged three or more sermons and ad
dresses per week and has visited about 100
churches and many Camps, Conferences and
conventions. He took a full year of graduate
work at Cincinnati Bible Seminary, while
Lois served as House Mother for one of the
Girl.s' Dormitories. We wish to express here
their gratitude and thanks for the wonderful
hospitality and the many kindnesses that
have been shown to them everywhere. They
take back with them many precious mem
ories. They are strengthened by your prayers.
A. E. S.
Post Script, three weeks later: The latest
we have heard (Sept. 8) is that they arrived
on the west coast Men. night, Aug. 3 0. After
investigation they found out that the freigh
ter on which they had planned to sail had
again postponed its sailing date, that it was
an old ship and would probably take 3 or
4 weeks to cross over to Japan. So they got
reservations on a plane, tourist rate, to leave
Sept. 8, stop in Hawaii and due to arrive in
Tokyo Sept. 12, just in time for the opening
of Tokyo Bible Seminary. Still later, Sept.
14, we have just learned that some other
Mis.sionaries who went by freighter finally
arrived in Tokyo after five weeks. So we
are thankful and believe the.se little children
were under God's guidance when it was de
cided to go by plane. Think of lhe 5 weeks
on the water.
Youth Camp
The Young People's Camp this summer
was again held in Kaniizawa, a summer re
treat for those who desire to escape the
high humidity which usually prevails on both
the islands of Honshu and Kyushu. Though
it does not have a beach for swimming, it
does have a much cooler temperature be
cause it is 3,049 ft. above sea level. Today,
Karuizawa is one of the most popular sum
mer resorts in Japan because of its wealth
of ultra-violet rays, its coolness, and its
accessibility therefore making it an ideal
location for a young people's camp.
This year for the first time the camp has
entirely been in the hands of the Japanese.
Advice and counsel, help with recreation,
place for the camp and some finances was
provided by the missionaries. All teaching
was done by Japanese teachers and those
who have graduated from the Bible College.
The personnel of the camp numbered
eight persons for the two weeks, and the
campers were thirty-two. These were divided
into three groups. The college, high school
and junior high school ages.
Thus far, to my knowledge there has been
one conversion as a result of the effort of
the camp. However, I feel quite sure that
the total good accomplished through the camp
cannot be reckoned by the number of con
versions. For most of the others had their
faith strengthened and their hope made more
steadfast. And we continue to look to Cod
for the salvation of the few who have not
yet been obedient to the Gospel unto lhe
saving of their souls.
Pray with us that God will encourage
these Japanese leaders to use the mistakes
made this year as stepping stones to a much
more successful camp next year.
Stanley Buttray
During Our First Term Of
Service We Were
Privileged To:
a LEAD in the establishing of 4 churches
of Christ.
0 HELP in founding the Tokyo Bible Semi
nary.
0 ACT as President of the school for 2 years.
0 TEACH about 2,000 hours of Bible and
related subjects in the Seminary and about
1,200 hours in other Bible cla.sses in local
churches and at home. (Including Lois'
High School Class and Ladies' Meeting,)
0 PREACH about 750 sermons, more than
half of them in the Japanese language,
which we studied 2 years.
0 WORK on Mission business such as re
claiming and re-rcgisterin.g the property,
contracting for and supervising buildings.
Lois acted as Mission Treasurer.
0 PLAN and assist in many evangelistic
meetings.
0 DIRECT some Vacation Bible Schools.
0 AID in publication of a monthly paper
called "The New Testament Herald" in
Japanese.
0 ATTEND several Conventions and Chris
tian Service Camps.
We have made many mistakes and fail
ures, hut by the Grace of God even our little
efforts have not been in vain, though it is
nothing compared to what, really needs to be
done.
All glory and praise to God. We thank
Ilim for all.
Harold Sims
The Harold Sims Family
MissioDaries To
Tokyo, Japan
Churches of Christ and Christian Churches
Hope
Sylvia
Address in Japan
450 Arai MachI
Nakano-ku
Tokyo, Japan
ik-..
Harold
Jonathan
Forwarding Agent
A. E. Sims
310 Brown Avenue
Turtle Creek, Penna.
HAROLJD is the oldest son of a minister, being brought up in the
parsonage at Chester, W.Va., Newport News, Va., and Eustis, Fla.
He graduated from Atlanta Christian College in 1945 and has had
2 years of graduate study in the Cincinnati Bible Seminary.
LOIS is the oldest daughter of an elder in the church at Turtle
Creek, Pa., and grand-daughter of a Christian church preacher.
She studied 1 year in Cincinnati Bible Seminary.
HOPE JOYCE was born in Tokyo March 28, 1948.
SYLVIA JEAN was born in Tokyo May 4, 1950.
JONATHAN HAROLD was born in Tokyo August 8, 1952
Lois and Harold were married on March 21, 1947 in Turtle Creek,
Pa., and left 10 days later for Hawaii, where they helped continue
the work begun there by Mr. and Mrs. Owen Still. Their military per
mits arrived in October, and on November 15, 1947 they arrived in
Toltyo to join Mrs. Cunningham and the Stills. They lived and worked
in Japan until June 30, 1953. They then returned for a furlough which
is being spent in additional study at C.B.S. and visiting interested
churches on weekends.
We shall return to Tokyo in August, 1954, the Lord willing, and
continue this work. Since the peace treaty the mood of the nation
will probably be against us both as Americans and as Christians,
making it more discouraging and diflScult to preach the gospel in
Japan. But we believe the future is bright, and are thankful that
we still have opportunities of service in Japan.
BRETHREN, PRAY FOR US
\ ^
During Our First Term of Service We Were Privileged To:
. . . LEAD in the establishing of 4 churches of CSirist
. . . HELP in founding the Tokyo Bible Seminary.
. . . ACT as President of the school for 2 years.
. . . TEACH about 2,000 hours of Bible and related subject in the
Seminary and about 1,200 hours in other Bible classes in local
churches and at home. (Including Lbis' High School CSoss
and Ladies' Meeting.)
. . . PREACH about 750 sermons, more than half of them in Jap
anese language, which we studied 2 years.
. . . WORK on Mission business such as reclaiming and reregister
ing the proper^, contracting for and supervising buildings.
Lois acted as Mission Treasurer.
... PLAN and assist in many evangelistic meetings.
. . . DIREiCr some Vacation Bible Schools.
... AID in publication of a monthly paper called "The New Tes
tament Herald" in Japanese.
. . . ATTEND several Conventions and Christian Service Clamps.
We have made many mistakes and failures, but by the Grace of
God even our little efforts have not been in vain, though it is nothing
compared to what really needs to be done.
All glory and praise to God. We thank Him for all.
We are actively working to establish local churches of Christ
that will be loyal to Him in all teaching, and self-supporting, self-
propagating and self-governing under Christ
Our main efforts will be in training native evangelists, pastors and
teachers both in the Tokyo Bible Seminary and in the local churches
We also pray that we may be used of (Sod in bringing many souls to
the knowledge of salvation. We hope to expand interest in and pro<
duction of Christian literature in Japanese.
BRETHREN, PRAY FOR US
The churches that have faithfully provided living-link support for
Harold and Lois for the past 6 years are:
First CJhristian Church CharlottesvUle, Virginia
First Christian Church TurUe Creek, Pennsylvania
Church of Christ Eustis, Florida
Church of Christ Markle, Indiana
Church of Christ (24th Street) Newport News, Virginia
Additional support of $400per year for each child is being sought
Also general offerings for travel to Japan, the constant expenses
of carrying on our work and the Tokyo Bible Seminary are needed.
We trust in the Lord.
There will be no longer a Mission general fund, but each mis
sionary will receive his living link funds and other general offerings
directly. He will be responsible for accounting and reporting the use
of these funds to those who support him.
We are associated with the Church of Christ Cunningham Mis
sion, established in 1801 and incorporated in Atlanta, (Georgia. The
funds of this organization will be used mainly for buildings, and we
are among the trustees in whose uame the Mission property in Japan
is held.
We plan to continue the Tokyo Christian quarterly, with news
of the work of the churches, individuals and Bible Seminary there. In
months when this is not printed we are planning to write monthly
reports to our regular supporters and friends.
BRETHREN, PRAY FOR US
Each Xdult missionary should complete one of these forms and send by regular seamall to;
Mission Services - Box 968 - Joliet, Illinois
PERSONAL FILE
Date^
5
OCT 20 1954
Name in full j-}p[ROLP Rudolph /m s Sex_tai__
Complete address on field JtQ ASAI ^AKANo-fCu j OU yo k) f\PAN ,
Complete home (for forwarding) address 2X2 Brou/n A\/. //jWTi E F^Nrv/^
Name and address of hometown np-wapapfr ^ / NP^NarNy Turtlc- -Av_
Names and addresses of other newspapers which might carry stories of your work...
Elfe BfiAonfiric P/?
SePT 11^^
,N UN- T^L/:
RVfibj Pa-
Place of Rirfh }~ Air Liv6Krpoi- (Jai
Day MonthjisXJlX. YearJX^^
Where baptised? M T age?__X-2
On back of page please describe any special circumstances regarding conversion.
Marital status: MarriedkXl Single. Divorced- Widowed.^ Married at what ^ ^
List children by full name giving place, day, month, and year of birth;
Name Place
HoPr\j ?y ft; ToKyf? <J /^p>^N
Sy-VID v) e/>N
\J(UY/irtfN l-j AKncf,
Schooling (High School and on):
Name and Location of School
} n T. f .fr ^
XmirT//VA>-
CInC.IUUAn Lif,Lt
0
Number of Years
^
2Jl
Day Month Year
AJl t'i'Ait
V- nso
8' 4/-.ysT
Major Degrees with date
Personal File - Page 2- Name,^ ,
(j^hat things influenced you to become amissionary'?^our own story in some detail might be
influential in leading others into fulltime service (use a sep^ata sheetif^you need more space)?
y) M/^ ^ ^ Jo
'n ^,,^.1^ Ljuf^ fit ^d
.. -Jo
^^^Scribe briefly in outline form the nature of your daily duties, 3-tacX 10 *
Which of the following terms most nearly describes your missionary status: ff
Evangelist. Bible College teacher, ^ Public School teacher Home maker,
Doctor,__ Nurse Social worker _ Office workerOther
Father's name and home address (if living): /r . /M "Tf,.t TLtr I^A
His occuaption,. ,^1 fNl.,' 7 " ''S Is he a Christian? V
*<}
What positions of leadership has he held in the local fhnrrh? Mu// J~ Gn
Mother's full maiden nam^ ;? t- FIr 6 H ig she yC-
Is she aChristian? yfr Her occupation if employed outside of Tinmfa
What leadership positions has she held in the local church? -> T(rAc^f-K
^ Name of forwarding agent.
Addresft^/^ fiO>,rf/ /^/^. Telephone4Z/l_2::i22y"
What are his or her duties: ^ aaa
tJjjt tftW
Should money ^e sent to forwarding agent only?liiAf<l^ what form?-LttCi If it can be mailed to
you please indicate how inwhat form? 0i\ Qth/Afi y ie s 7" na
Does your forwarding agent serve without salary?, ^ -* ^
What problems do you need help with, that Mission Services might provide?
Each Adult missionary should complete one of these forms and sendby regular seamail to:
Mission Services - Box 968 - JoUet, Illinois /. i 1354
Name in full
PERSONAL FILE
Date.
JuMt' nS Sex
Complete address on field_<2 NflKfrWftKll
ytf /Kfr. /> . ' a
Complete home (for forwarding) address ^ t- ^
Name and address of hometown newspaper R^^/JP ^0TZ.Ik- imi
Names and addresses of odier newspapers which mi^t carry stories of your work...
Place of Birth ^ 7"tf" ^ Day
iL Month ^ Var
Where Hapi-ig/^H? 7^. /J,R What age?
On back of page please describe any special circumstances regarding conversion.
Marital status: MarriedSingle Divorced Widowed Married at what age-i^
List children by full name giving place, day, month, and year of birth;
Name
Place Day Month year
! p r 0 1 ^ ^ r ^ 5 ,*0 T~
>-h -i." -
J j r>^AfJ H'^p 01.
i - -r - ra-
Schooling (High School and on):
Name and Location of School Number of Years Major Degrees with date
/rKiH-
/2-
'
oc./*-
C/fJC/JS/
P'/jfL / K^ 1
t
Personal File - Page 2- Name.^ f
What things influenced you to become a missionary? Your own story in some detail might be
influential in leading others into fuUtime service (use a separate sheetdf^you need more space)?
Describe briefly in outline form the nature of your daily duties.
(Jo/ne/l A-'Vo Ort-//-liS'a( d 6iJo^K f^o
lA>w4aA.(e. ^T'tipy
Kei^N Q^ot^/i^SfiiftAC/tcE
Which of the following terms most nearly describes your missionary status:
Evangelist,
Doctor. Nurse
Bible College teacher,
_ Social worker ^
Public School teacher. Home maker.
Office worker. Other.
Father's name and home address (if living); ^ LiiTTtiH ;^L_2uSLE.^^^^,
His
)^Tr/v)>y hhke^
Is he aChristian? ^
uesT/NQ^*^iC A//?/s>eAi< /y^F. Co.
What positions of leadership has he held in the local church? _
Mother's full maiden name^^ A/
Dfr
Is she living?.
Is she a Christian?,
What leadership positions has she held in the local church?
Name cf forwarding agent,
Address,
'w. Her occupation if employed outside of home_
k") -
S,- 3 ^^h'j Kf'-P Telephone
ft: i
What are his or her duties: o p- ''J/h^/S 7~i
^f>iTo^ a 'TTjtryo T/^ff
Should money be sent toforwarding agent onlyV^rtfflWitfci what fnrm? tf^gCAL if it can be mailed to
you please indicate how in what form?
Does your forwarding agent serve without salary?.
/
What problems do you need help with, that Mission Services might provide?
Dear Friends,
jDCT 20 1954
Tokyo5 Japan
Sept. 30, 1954
Because we founa upon arrivinq; on the West Coast that our
ship had been delayed again, v/e thought we would waste a lot of
raoney and time waiting on it, so arranged to fly to Japan by
tourist class on the nev/ Japan Air Lines. With the Cheerful
assistance of some friends in San Jose Bible College and others
we were able to purchase some fur.uiture and arrange the packing
and shipping of all our belongings oxcept 10 suitcases in just
a few days. We loft San Prancisco airport on Sept. 8, and after
a 2-day stop-over with old friond-s in Hawaii wo arrived safely
in Tokyo on Sunday morning Septc 12, .AjI of the 'I'okyo missionaries
were on hand to give us a hearty welcome, and even some from
Osaka and Kyushu were in Tokyo at the time on business of
various kinds and joined in the fello-wchip.
The sudden change from America to Japan left us feeling
strange for several days, but it was good to be back among old
friends .and the familiar work again. Mary changes have taken
place in the 14 months we have been a\vay, and there are many
problems, so we rejoiced uo see many of the Chrisbians remaining
faithful and growjj'.g. We have been ?ble to cal]. on several who
had becorre sick since we loft, also.
Most of our baggage, and all of the freight, is coming by
boat. It will get to yokohama sornxOtime nexu week, we hope. In
tne meantime we are staying with the Puttra;/ family--!iving out
of suitcases and t^-ylng hail to got the \.*ork*rr.Gn busy on some
repairs on the house before we move in.
Harold has begun beaching Hebrew in Tokyo Bible Seminary
4 hours a week, thus relieving Andrev/ Fatten so he can attend
night school in ."opaneae language. After r-he examinations in
October he will be teaching some other subjects.
Hope Joyce stai'tod in the first grade on her second
day in Japan. We take her to the train every morning about
B:15 and she rides about 40 minutes by electri?. train to tlie
school which is operatod by missionaries for American
missionary children. 'When we meet her about 4;15 every
afternoon she is full of news about what she did and learned
out in uhe school on the quiet edge of bhe city.
We have visited 4 of the churches here on the 2h
Sundays we have been in town. All of bhein seem to be going on
as usual. it is still hard to preach in. Japanese, but evcrj' day
it seems to come out a little easier. The children had forgotten
everything about Japanese, but they arc picking up quickly.
Little Jonnie seems somev/hat shy among these obviously strange
people speaking a stran^^o language, but he doesn^t have anj'
trouble with the Japanese food, so we think he will get along.
Vernon M. Newland
National Historical Socisty
ToKyo K Christian
"Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature." Mark 16:15
Vol. 53 Kimberlin Heights, Tennessee, December, 195Ji. Number U
Joint Foculty Meeting
On November 20-23 the professors of the
Osaka and Tokyo Seminaries met at Osaka
to discuss various problems related to the
two seminaries and their respective minis
tries in Japan. As a result of the meeting
we can better understand our various prob
lems, can rethink our methods in the light
of what others are doing and thinking, and
bring about a closer fellowship between the
two schools as we work together in training
faithful leaders for the evangelization of
Japan. Brother Harlan Woodruff who has
recently started a two-year Bible training
course for Okinawan ministers and Christian
leaders was also present at the meeting and
made a fine contribution to the discussions.
Problems regarding evangelism, publi
cation of printed materials, student life in
the seminary and the relationship between
the students and the local church were dis
cussed and related to the present courses of
study in the two scliools. --The basic idea
throughout the meeting was the question of
whether or not the program of the two semi
naries were adequate for training students
for effective leadership in evangelistic en
deavor in the face of the peculiar and diffi
cult circumstances of present-day Japan. It
was not the purpose of the meeting to form
ulate plans for making the two schools uni
form. Ideas were freely exchanged and prob
lems were frankly discussed but no one was
obligated to use any idea which was pre
sented.
Ail who were present agreed that God's
instrument in redeeming a lost world is the
glorious gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Therefore, the most important consideration
in any Bible College in any land ou earth
is imparting to the students a sound knowl
edge of the Bible and teaching them the
fundamental, tried, effective methods of pre
senting the gospel to any individual or group
with whom they may be called on to work.
God's truth is as unchangeable as the Lord
Himself but methods must be flexible to fit
any circumstance. There are ten thousand
groups of people in Japan each necessitating,
perhaps, a different method of approach by
an evangelist. The evangelist who knows the
gospel and the general principles for its
application can find effective methods by
becoming all things to all men for the gos
pel's sake.
This was one of the most inspiring and
[Continued on page 3]
Wedding at Yocho-Machi A Forward Look
Benjamin Atsumi Watarai, graduate of
the Tokyo Bible Seminary in the class of
1953 and minister of the Yocho-machi Church
was married to Miss Noriko Minakawa in
the church on Sunday afternoon, October 10.
The western styled ceremony was performed
by Philip Oba._.brother-in-law of. the bride
and minister at Nishi-ogikubo Church. A
large crowd of fellow-ministers and others
attended and wished the young couple well.
They will make their new home in the par
sonage apartment in the rear of the church
building. This is the fifth graduate of Tokyo
Bible Seminary to be married.
H. R. S.
Reparations Money
During the year 19 53 the Japanese gov
ernment paid reparations on the foreign
property destroyed during the war. It was
figured on the basis of what it would cost
now to replace the burnt building as it was
in 1941. Three of the missionary houses
were in Mrs. Cunningham's name, and one
of them was held in the name of the Chris
tian Restoration Association. Harold Sims
was the official representative of the Associ
ation in negotiations with the Japanese gov
ernment for reparations payment.
"When he returned to Japan he discovered
that the money had been paid by the Japan
ese government in July 1953, soon after they
left for furlough. It had been drawing inter
est in the Mitsui Trust Co. for a year. As
soon as it could be arranged he and Andrew
Patton went and signed papers transfering
the total sum ($3,24.00) to the building fund
for the new building of the Tokyo Bible Sem
inary. This building fund is now held in a
savings account in the Bank of Tokyo. Com
plete documentary proof of the way these
funds were handled is of course on file.
H. R. S.
December 26th marks our fourth year
and eighth month in Japan. "We want you to
know that we sincerely appreciate all your
kindness and your continued friendship, and
fellowship together in serving the Risen
Christ here in the land of the Rising Sun.
The Lord willing, we are planning to re
turn to the States next spring or early sum
mer for a year's furlough. We have not yet
made definite plans but you can be sure
if it is the Lord's will and your desire, we
shall make every endeavor to visit you and
bring you up to date concerning the Church
of our Lord in Japan.
I want to take this opportunity to tell
you of our tentative plans for the future.
Here in Japan there Is a great famine
a famine not of food or clothingl)ut of
good Christian books and commentaries. As
in America, Japan is filled with all kinds
of trashy books and magazines which are
leading the young people and the nation
to a more open and lower level of morals.
This presents a real challenge to us who are
working in this feild of labor. For it is our
responsibility before God to make known
"The Good News of Salvation" to Ihis God
less nation. What are we doing about it?
What would you do about it? The first steps
toward meeting the enormous task of flood
ing this nation with Christian literature goes
back five years when Samuel Saunders had
printed several thousand copies of a book
concerning the New Testament Church. Since
then, several thousand tracts have been print
ed by a number of your missionaries. And,
more recently by the printing of thirty-three
thousand copies of the third book of the
"Life of Christ Visualized" series. These were
made possible by the cooperative effort of
you at home and the missionaries on the
various fields of service and the kindness
of the Standard Pul)Iishing Co. These will
help tremendously in bringing the Gospel,
especially to the children. Then about three
months ago through the united efforts of the
missionaries, the printing of McGarvey's Com
mentary on the book of Acts was begun.
Primarily, this book will be of greatest value
to the student, but will also be of mucli
benefit to the laymen.
This is only the beginning, just a scratch
ing of the surface. In order to more effic
iently meet this great need, the Lord has
burdened my heart with bringing back to
[Continued on page 3]
Page 2
THE TOKYO CHRISTIAN
Published quarterly by the Church of Christ Cunning
ham Mission, Tokyo, Japan, for the information and in
spiration of every Christian whose heart is open to the
call of Christ, and who is willing to help in the supreme
task of carrying out the Great Commission of Christ:
Matthew 28:19,20.
Entered as second class matter in the Kimberlin
Heights, Tenn., Postoffice under the act of March 3,
1879.
Two-Yeor Subscription 50 cents
Subscription and "Flaming Torch" $1.00
Alfred E. Sims Editor
MISSION STAFF
Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Buttroy, 575 2-Chome, Kom-
iochiai, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo, Japan. Forwarding agent:
Mrs. Homer Anderson, R. D. 1, Meodville, Pa.
Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Potton, 27 Sokurayoma, Na-
kono-Ku, Tokyo, Japan. Forwarding agent: Mr. or
Mrs. Ray Armstrong, Rt. ^ Box 310, Piqua, Ohio.
Mr. and Mrs. Harold Sims, 450 Arai Machi, Nokono-
Ku, Tokyo, Japan. Fordwarding agent: A. E. Sims, 310
Brown Ave., Turtle Creek, Pa.
TOKYO BIBLE.SEMINARY
27 Sokurayoma, Nakano-Ku, Tokyo, Japon
TRUSTEES
Mr. T. O. Hathcock, Chairman, Lawrence Bain, Miss
Eva Green, Orvel C. Crowder, J. E. Lipscombe, Mrs. E. G.
Nabell, Alfred E. Sims.
Packages for Japan should be sent direct by parcel
post to one of the missionaries whose addresses ore
shown above. Consult your local postoffice concerning
mailing rules and limitations of size and weight.
If you change your address please notify H. L.
Hamilton, Kimberlin Heights, Tennessee, giving TOth
your old and your new address. If you make an offer
ing of $1.00 or more you are entitled to receive this
paper if you so request. Churches or groups making an
offering of $10.00 or more may request a bundle of 10
copies for distribution.
EDITORIALS
As we approached the Christmas season
this year we were reminded that it was on
Christmas Day last year that Mrs. W. D.
Cunningham was called to her eternal re
ward. How great must that reward be! We
think of that precious promise, Rev. 2:10:
"Be thou faithful unto death and I will give
thee a crown of life." If we may think of the
souls won to Christ as Stars in that crown,
then there must be great glory because of
the many stars in her crown. Truly Mrs.
Cunningham accomplished a marvelous work.
It is evident that God was pleased with her
work, because He kept her active far beyond
the usual age of retirement, far beyond the
three score and ten years, yea, even beyond
the four score years. And He was kind In
that He called her into the better world
without a long lingering illness. God even
granted her desire to be active in the work
right up to the time when He was ready to
call her home.
Her work will always have a large place
in the annals of the Movement to restore
the New Testament Church. There are scores
of Independent missionaries in many parts
of the world who have received inspiration
and encouragement from the successful work
of Mr. and Mrs. W. D. Cunningham, who as
^Oneers" wefir^out on" faTrh7~trusflirg~in' tlTe
promises of God. There were few independent
missionaries in those days, but now there is
a great host of them and the number is
rapidly increasing, as God continues to bless
the work.
The Church of Christ Cunningham Mis
sion continues as a living witness to the work
of the Cunninghams. More than a dozen
Churches of Christ and many hundreds of
faithful Japanese Christians bear testimony
to the effective work that was done, and
continues to be done by the present mission
aries who are the successors of the Cunning
hams. We may think of the whole Mission as
a memorial to the Cunninghams. But what
Tokyo Christian
do you readers think of a special memorial to
Mrs. Cunningham in the new additional build
ings for Tokyo Bible Seminary? Mrs. Cunn
ingham recognized that need, and turned
over part of the Reparations money for that
purpose, before she died. What more fitting
memorial to her than a building to help
train ministers of the Gospel for her be
loved Japane.se? We simply raise the ques
tion. It is for you readers to decide. If
you desire to make a memorial gift, to
help to provide housing for the students
at the Tokyo Bible Seminary, then write
to the President of the Seminary, An
drew Patton, 27 Sakurayama, Nakano-Ku,
Tokyo, Japan, and state how much you wish
to give as a memorial gift. Perhaps, too, a
word from you might encourage others to
give. What do you say? But remember that
unless it is first of all a gift to the Lord
and His work we cannot expect His blessing
upon it.
^A. E. S.
There are still some copies of the FLAM
ING TORCH available. A two year subscript
ion to the Tokyo Christian and the FLAM
ING TORCH, both for $1.00. Where can you
get as much for your money? 310 Brown
Ave., Turtle Creek, Pa.
THE CHRISTIAN'S JOY
Most everyone, unless it is the confirmed
pessimist is engaged in the pursuit of happi
ness. People are ever seeking things to enjoy,
yet often fail to find the joy they seek. The
Christian's joy is unique in many ways. It is
not dependent on external things. It is an
obligation, in the form of a positive com
mand: "Rejoice Evermore." It is peculiarly
characteristic of Christianity.
When the angels appeared to the shep
herds of Judea to announce the birth of
Christ it was a joyful message. "Behold I
bring you good tidings of great joy." And
we find in the farewell prayer of Jesus just
before leaving the disciples, "That they may
have my joy made full in themselves."
Some have caricatured the followers of
Jesus as a gloomy long-faced lot of kill-joys.
But nothing could be farther from the truth.
Occasionally you may find one such who
thinks he is a Christian, but he is mistaken;
he has the wrong conception of Christianity.
A real Christian cannot be a pessimist because
he loves the light rather than the darkness.
No matter"how discouraging the external
circumstances may be, the Christian has an
unfailing source of joy within the deep con
sciousness of his own soul. The joy of the
consciousness of forgiveness and acceptance
with God more than compensates for all
the trials and hardships the world is able to
bestow. Thus we find the apostles after being
imprisoned and beaten, going their way re
joicing that they were accounted worthy to
suffer for Jesus Christ. We find Paul and
Silas in prison, their feet fastened in the
stocks, their backs bruised and bleeding from
the stripes they had received, yet in the
blackness of that midnight, singing praises
to God. We find a similar spirit shown by
the martyrs of later ages. And if today we
find some professed Christians all down in
the dumps because things are not going just
right,i then there is something wrong with
their brand of Christianity.
Life of Christ Visualized
The Japanese edition (33,000 copies) of
book III of the Life of Christ Visualized,
which was advertized in the Christian Stand
ard and subsidized by many of our friends,
was finished just in time for Harold Sims
to take back to Japan with his freight. When
the customs men came to inspect these eight
1000 pound boxes they wouldn't admit them
as baggage and said we would need a regu
lar import license. As this is written we have
not finished cutting through the red tape,
but are hopeful of getting them on sale soon.
Everyone who has seen a copy is interested
in them and they say the price is cheap
enough. The first question everyone asks is.
"What about books I and II?" We hope to
use the money received from the sale of
Volume III to pay for our part of printing
the others.
There are more missionaries of churches
of Christ and Christian Churches in Tokyo
now than have ever been here before, so far
as we know. All who have been away on
furlough have come back, and those due to
go home on furlough next year are still here.
Then there are others here for language
study. We have a wonderful fellowship when
we-all get together. ~ "
Here is a list of those now in Tokyo:
CUNNINGHAM MISSION: Harold and
Lois Sims, Stanley and Mabel Buttray, An
drew and Betty Patton.
MABASHI MISSION: Grace Farnham,
Julius and Virginia Fleenor.
STUDYING LANGUAGE: Robert and Aud
rey West, Earnest and Niva Faber, Paul and
Marcia Neilsen, Harold and Ada Taylor. *
PREPARING TO GO TO KOREA: Alex
and Betty Bills.
Riding In Trains
Since we didn't bring a car with us to
Japan we have been doing more riding on the
train than we used to. It is more inconvenient
and a lot more crowded, but it has its com
pensations. One is that you have kept con
stantly before your eyes the multitudes who
gospel. You get in closer
touch with the lives of the people and see
what advertisements they see and what mag
azines they read. And you get to read some
yourself.
H. R. S.
The week of Oct. 25-31 was the regr
Week of Evangelism for the Tokyo Bi
Seminary. At the end of the first semes
(middle of the school year) we take a wi
off from school for a change from the r
tine and some practice in evangelism. T
year there were 4 evangelistic meetings sch
uled in different churches and the stude
divided up into teams and went to help
various ways.
This picture wus taken in front of the termi
nal building at Tokyo International Airport
a few minutes after the Sims family arrived
in Japan on a hot day in early September.
From left to right they are: Titus and Aiko
Kikuchi, Paul Clark, son of Martin Clark
Joint Faculty Meeting
[Continued from 1]
interesting meetings that we have attended
with our brethren in Japatt, The Osaka Bible
Seminary. Martin B. Clark, President- pro-
pared the program and was host for the
meeting. The hospitality and fellowship were
wonderful. It was unanimously decided to
have another faculty meeting next year. This
one will be sponsored by the Tokyo Bible
Seminary.
Andrew Patton.
A Forword Look
[Continued from 1
Japan a printing outfit which will enable
us to place in the hands of the Japanese
people this much needed Christian literature.
At present the material needed most of all
is that which will help the Christian to grow
ill Spirit and Truth. This, I believe is of
the utmost netnl and will be the means of
stimulating the Christian to a victon'ous life
and will ultiiiuitely bring about the Si^'rit of
Hvaugellsm which the Church m,u.st have in
order 'to fulfill Cludst's tkiimiiam! (Mk. 16:
15) and become a living-("hureh.
The story is told of a Chinese colporteur
visiting a city for the first time. It was un
likely that he would ever pass this way again.
In the market place was a little old woman
who was just finishing her buying. Looking
up she saw a man with a strange book in
his hand saying. "I have in my hand a book;
it will lead you to God; it will take you to
heaven." The little old lady wanted the book,
but coming from a poor home where they
didn't have meat to eat for a month at a
lime, she felt tliat she could not afford to
buy such a hook. Even if it could tell her
Tokyo Christian
of Osaka Christian Mission, Andrew Patton,
Julius Fleenor, Audrey West, Robert West,
Harold Sims, Stanley Biittray, Lois Sims,
Isabel Dittemore and the three Sims children
standing in front.
how to get to heaven. After thinking It over
for a moment the old lady asked the cost
of the book. Hearing the man say just a
few copper coins, she quickly handed the
coins to the colporteur and with the strange
book under her arm she started on her way
home. "
Upon reaching home she gave the book
to her eldest son. After reading for some time
the son became aware that there is a Saviour
who can take away your sin and give you
peace within. Though this man had never
heard a sermon or sung a Christian song,
yet God led him through the Printed Word
to salvation. Soon he had won his whole
family to Christ. The final result, an indi
genous church! This was discovered by a mis
sionary, who e:\tering this town for the first
time, and hearing the testimony of these
people as they worshiped God, saw in a new
way the Power of the Printed Page!
We sing, "There is Power in the Blood;"
we read from Tennyson. "More things are
wrought by Prayer than this world dreams
of;" from God's Holy Word we read, "The
Prayers of a righteous man availeth much."
These statements are true, but HOW are we
personally being read? Are we being read
as Jesus said: "Ye shall be wlthnesses . . .
unto the uttermost part of the earth"? Yes,
your missionaries are being read, but it
is impossible for us to be divided into pieces
and sent to every house to be read as the
newspaper is each day of the year. Need more
be said to show the extreme importance and
power of the Printed Page?
Roraember, your daily prayer and month
ly gift will go far in bringing about a Vic
torious Church for Japan and Christ. "Your
dollar will mean SOULS through the printed
page," To deny your missionaries the equip
ment they need is like drawing a line around
their ministry. It is ihe same as saying. "Yon
Page S
may take the Gospel this far, and no far
ther."
No gift is too small to win Souls for
Christ through the printed page. On the other
hand, extra dollars will help speed this much
needed equipment, and be the means of sup
plying every missionary and native preacher
in Japan with the necessary material to en
large their field of service for God and bring
about a victorious Church of Christ.
Stanley Buttray
(We have received word that a son was
born to Mr. and Mrs. Buttray on Dee. 2 0,
1954. Paul, the only other child of the But-
trays is now in college In America.)
Sims House Repaired
Through the kindness of Judge T, 0.
Hathcock and other trustees the house where
the Sims family lived is now being remodeled
to make it more comfortable an-d usable as
well as to repair some long-standing defect.s.
The problem of this house was one of the
things discussed at the trustees meeting in
May, and it was agreed that it should be
fixed up to provide more suitable quarters
for the Sims family if they should move
back there.
The chimney that was gradually pulling
away from the house has been torn down,
and the whole front wall of the former liv
ing room removed. The former living-room
and dining room has been enlarged by en
closing a hall, and then a section is being
walled- off for a studyTTE^Tiitchen" is being
modernized and another bedroom is being
constructed upstairs.
Due to good weather the workmen have
made rather good progress and the work
should be entirely completed about the first
of December, before the real cold weather
sets in. Until the time that we can use that
part of the house we are leaving our liviug-
room furniture In storage and living in rather
cramped conditions, but are enjoying the
prospect of living in the much-improved
place. Of course, even as it Is now, our place
is much nicer than many of our neighbors
have; so we humbly thank God for shelter
and thank Him more and more for the
abundance of all things He has given us.
We pray that we may use it unselfishly.
H. R. S.
(Latest word: The house was finished jus
before Christmas and they got moved in a
their big Christmas gift.Ed..)
IF FVERYONF WOULt
GIVE GOD HIS TENTH
THE WORLD COULD SOOA
BE EVANGELIZED, ANl
ALL WOULD BE HAPPY!
Page k
Seminary News
Two new students entered Tokyo Bible
Seminary at the beginning of the second
semester. Yukiya Mikami, formerly assistant
music director of the Tokyo Chapel Center,
was given permission to take the two-year
Bible course. He wishes to become a singing
evangelist, but wishes to receive some basic
Bible teaching before beginning work. He is
from Akita Prefecture in Northern Japan.
Mr. Kim, another new student, is of
Korean descent and comes from the church
at Milawashima. He has been a faithful and
zealous member of this church for about four
years. He has seen the need of ministers for
his own people and wishes to devote himself
to this work after receiving Bible training.
Garo Hara, a third year student left
school at the end of the second semester.
The minister of his home church at Tanabe,
Wakayama Prefecture in Southern Japan,
contacted tuberculosis and Mr. Hara returned
home to help with the ministerial duties.
Hideo Fukuda, who was hospitalized in
January for tuberculosis and was allowed to
leave the hospital in September, entered an
other hospital on December 4th upon advice
of his doctor. The next two months will de
termine whether his physical condition will
require an operation.
Nakano Church called Akira Nagano, a
fourth-year student, to be their minister. His
minstry with this church began on November
14th. Itsuro Haruyama, the- former minister
of the Nakano Church, is now the minister
at the Yokosuka Church.
Namio Kamata, second year student, and
Miss Chicko Nose, first-year student, were
married at the Shimoochiai Church on Dec.
5th. Julius Fleenor of the Seminary offici
ated at the wedding. Mr. Kamata is from
Okinawa and his wife from Amami Oshima.
They will live in a small apartment near the
Seminary until Mr. Kamata graduates. Then
they will return to the island of Okinawa to
work for the Lord.
Stephen lijima, first graduate and one of
the present teachers of TBS, recently con
ducted an evangelistic meeting during one
week for the Kinan Church, Tanabe, Waka
yama Prefecture.
John Muto, graduate and teacher of TBS,
helped the brethren in Nagoya in an evangel
istic meeting during the last week of Oct.
The Christmas^ -vacation will begin on
December eleventh and school will begin on
January seventh.
^Andrew Patton.
Pachinko
This is a word that hds been coined in
Japan within the last 2 or 3 years, and repre
sents to them the sound that a steel ball
makes when it hits' the lights in a pin-ball
machine. They call the upright lighted board
full of pins a "Pachinko," and there are
dozens of "get rich quick" shops being opened
every day, having walls lined with many
machines to accommodate the crowds of
young and old of both sexes that come to
Tokyo Christian
play. Recently the Mainichione of the Eng
lish newspapers in Japan carried a long
article about this craze that seems to be
going on endlessly here. In part this is what
was said:
"For the past several years, people have
been saying that it's about time the Pachinko
craze faded out. It remains as strong as
ever. The Tax Administration Agency has
estimated the total income of all the Pachinko
parlors throughout Japan at 14,900 million
yen per month. That is more than the total
monthly sales of all the department stores
in Japan.
"Pachinko parlors are today found every
where. The only district in Tokyo without
one is Seijo-machi in Setagaya ward. It is
estimated that there are 40,000 Pachinko par
lors in Japan, and if these establishments
should average 50 machines each, it would
mean a total of 2,000,000 machines.
"The old machines in which one ball was
put into the slot at a time are outmoded,
and most of those in use today are of the
niachine-gun type. All the player has to do
is to flick the lever and the next ball auto
matically falls into place for the next flick.
Better service must constantly be provided
by the management to keep them coming.
Careful consideration must be given to light
ing, air-conditioning, etc. The most important
thing, of course, is the ratio at which the
machines pay out balls. At one time the
management could get away with a 50 per
cent pay back. Nowadays it must be from
70 to 80 percent. The persons suffering from
"Pachinko chudoku" (Pach. poisoning) will
desert a poor ratio establishment faster than
rats deserting a sinking ship.
"Among the "Chinjarazoku" (crazy about
Pachinko) there are the "professionals" who
spend all day in front of the machines. When
they leave loaded with prizes there are in
variably buyers waiting outside to turn the
merchandise into cash. At Shinjuku there
is the Pachinko Prizes Purchasing Co. which
operates entirely with merchandise bought
from successful players at less than market
prices."
H. R. S.
Stephen lijima, one of the Japanese prea
chers, has started a monthly magazine mainly
for the members of the Minato Church. It is
called "Bokka" (Shepherd or Pastor's Song)
and is very interesting.
Undo^Koi (Exercise Meeting)
Nov. 3 is the holiday called Culture Day
in Japan, and there is a tradition that it
never rains on that day. For the last 3
years we have held a field day, or exercise
meeting, for all of the Sunday Schools of
our churches in Tokyo at one of the city
parks on this day. This year we had another
beautiful warm day and an attendance of
about 350 from 10 different churches.
Various kinds of races were planned for
all ages, and all were eagerly run by the
participants amid cheers from the sidelines.
Individuals who placed first, second and
third were given small prizes and then each
winner earned a certain number of points
for his team (church). The Bible Seminary
students planned the activities of the day,
and it was very well managedeven to small
details.
Everybody brought their lunch, and we
all ate together and had a good time of
fellowship. Many outsiders even come over
to enjoy the games and other things with us.
H. R. S.
I Am Your Enemy
I do not care who you are, lawyer, mini
ster, farmer, teacher, laborer, anybody.
I do not care whether you are rich or
poor, old or young, strong or weak, everyone.
I do not care where you are, at home,
on the street, on the train, anywhere.
I am more powerful that all the armies,
more deadly than guns or poison gas, more
cruel than the most uncivilized man or the
fiercest beast.
I steal millions each year, but give noth
ing to anyone.
I always tear down, never build up.
I rejoice in bringing you trouble, sorrow
and suffering.
I am defeated each day by many, yet I
never give up the attack.
Who am I?
I am Carelessness. <
Who Con Help?
Do any of you readers know the poem
which closes with the following lines or
something similar?
'Tis a teacher, tis a preacher,
And to me it seems to say:
Just be plucky, you'll be lucky;
You have seen it, don't forget;
Keep your heart and keep your courage.
You will be a winner yet!
I clipped the poem from somewhere when
I was in high school. I kept it for some
years, then loaned it and didn't get it back.
If anyone can give me the name of the poem,
the author, or where I can find it I will
appreciate it.
A. E. Sims
310 Brown Ave., Turtle Creek, Pa.
"If ye love me ye will keep my command
ments."
The man who insists that things cannot
be changed is usually one of the things that
cannot.
It requires will power to make a decision;
more to live up to it.
Keep your face to the sunshine and you
cannot see the shadow. Helen Keller.