Thank you for your interest in serving the Lord with us in Japan.
At Abide Calvary Chapel Osaka, we believe that ministry is built on relationship, trust, unity, and a shared commitment to what God is doing through the local church.
For this reason, our church and church board do not provide missionary visa sponsorship simply because someone needs a sponsoring organization. Visa sponsorship is considered when there is an established relationship, mutual trust, and a shared commitment to serving alongside our local church.
As a general guideline, those interested in serving with us should:
1. Know and Agree with the Calvary Chapel Distinctives.
2. Spend at least five months getting to know our church before we would consider missionary visa sponsorship.
This would normally involve at least two non-consecutive 90-day tourist visa visits, providing time to regularly attend, build relationships, serve in the church, and become familiar with our ministry, people, and direction.
Over the years, we have come to realize that there are many people who are sincerely serving the Lord and doing good things for His Kingdom. But doing good things and running in the same direction are not always the same thing. We want to serve alongside people who are not simply doing ministry, but who desire to run with us as we follow where God is leading this local church.
We often describe this as helping to “lift up our arms” by serving together, supporting what God is already doing, and participating in the various opportunities God provides.
We recognize that every person has unique gifts, interests, and areas of ministry. We want to encourage people to use those gifts as the Lord leads. At the same time, missionary visa sponsorship would not normally be considered for someone whose primary purpose is to establish or pursue an independent ministry or personal vision that is separate from, or not aligned with, the direction and ministry of the local church.
Our desire is to see genuine unity of heart, calling, and direction before entering into a sponsorship relationship.
This approach is not intended to discourage anyone from pursuing God’s calling. Rather, we believe that taking time to develop relationships, serve together, and discern God’s direction is healthy and important for both the individual and the church.
If you are considering serving with us in Japan, we would be open to have you spend time with us, get to know our church family, and prayerfully discover how the Lord may lead us to serve Him together.
Grace and Peace,
Abide – Calvary Chapel Osaka