I hope this letter finds you well!
This January from the 23rd to the 30th, I will be going on a mission trip to Japan. In addition to doing somewhat “typical” Christian missionary work, I have been placed in charge of leading (and choreographing for) a team of dancers to spread a message of identity, hope and love to those who may need and want to hear it.
I have been a Christian for most of my life, but it wasn’t until college that I met Jesus in a real, undeniable way. Since then it’s been quite a journey as I’ve come to know more and more of who this Jesus, and his love, really is. I ended up coming to Korea about two years ago to get my Master’s Degree in International Relations at Yonsei University. During my first year, I found my way to the doors of New Philadelphia Church. I had become very cold towards Church during the last few years at college, but it was here that my jaded heart was brought to life again through the Christ-like love of those around me. The Lord has since been working powerfully in my life, and many false identities and strongholds over me have been broken. It’s at this house that I’ve found a spiritual family, a renewed love for the Lord, and my identity in my loving creator.
Japan is a nation that I find very dear to me. I’ve written research papers on various aspects of Japanese culture as well as historical figures and artists and developed a deep love for Japan throughout all of it. I’ve also been there twice before, once as an infant and once as a high school student on another mission trip. But, this time around, I aim to be a blessing to Japan by dancing for and serving the organizations, orphanages and schools we will be partnering with.
I began dancing in college, and it became a great passion of mine. I have much to learn and much to grow. But, I do know that this love for dance and the dance skills I have, have been gifted to me by the Lord and cultivated through many mentors and teams who have shown me great love, teaching and patience. It has been such a blessing to be both a student to many and a part of multiple dance families. I aim to take this passion of mine, and put it to use for something greater than the applause of an audience.
1 Timothy 1:5 – The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.
Through coming to the Lord and growing in him, I have a new love that springs forth from within me. In Japan, we will be evangelizing, dancing, and working with local churches in order to love on this nation and the people who inhabit it. In the past, I’ve been able to share my love for my dance families on stage. Now, it is my desire to love on this nation with the gifts that have been cultivated in me, and share the love I have for my spiritual family here at New Philadelphia Church. Through dance, I hope to share the hope, love, and identity that I’ve received on my journey with the Lord. I would love for you to partner with me in this endeavor, and support me either financially, with your prayers, or both.