I have been in Japan for 11 years. After I finished my Japanese language learning, my husband and I worked with a Japanese church as church planters; we organized different events to meet local people, shared the gospel with them, and invited them to church.
Five years ago, I began serving as the Japanese language adviser of OMF Japan Field, running the OMF Japanese Language and Culture Center (JLCC) together with other teammates. That means that we walk alongside newly arrived missionaries Japan who are starting their Japanese language learning journey.
An important role of my job is as a “go-between” for the language learners and the teachers. I give advice about how to teach and how to learn the language well, so we can have the most effective classes. I check on each student’s progress, meet with them to give encouragement, advice, and make adjustments to the lessons as needed.
We use a Japanese language curriculum that is tailor-made for missionaries. So, when new teachers start work at JLCC it’s essential to give them guidelines, training, and advice on textbooks etc.
Besides advice on teaching and learning methods, I also provide support and pastoral care. We are a close community—we’re together every day—so communication with transparency, respect, and showing care to one another are the keys to building a trust relationship. This in turn leads to a harmonious environment which is good for all.
Recently, I have started a conversation group with a few students who struggle with speaking in Japanese. We play games, do random daily life chat, or sometimes share about a given topic. In the process, we are able to take time to review some of the grammar patterns or vocabulary that they are not familiar with, and try to use them in the conversation. We all enjoy the process and have a lot of laughter every time. Learning Japanese is tough but can be fun!
Walking alongside people undergoing transition needs love, patience, and wisdom from God, as well as openness and sensitivity to understand each person’s needs. Would you join in this essential work through prayer?
By Karen, an OMF missionary
