We stood among a group of onlookers, watching as worshippers used their left hand to pick up a ladle, with which to catch the flowing water, and then pour it over their right hand. Switching the ladle to their right hand, they then poured water over their left hand. Afterward, they rinsed their mouths with water from the ladle, followed by rinsing their left hand once more.

This ritual, the temizuya—performed beneath a statue of the dragon god who represents water and weather in Asian mythology—is a symbolic act of cleansing impurities, preparing worshipers for entry into the temple or shrine.

As Christians, we understand that no amount of washing at the temizuya can truly cleanse a person when sin is the issue. The Japanese who practice Buddhism and Shintoism have a deep desire for cleansing. Unfortunately, they are unaware that they have a Savior who is the “fountain of living water,” willing and able to cleanse them from their sins (Jeremiah 2:13).

God has called our family to Japan to minister to Japanese Buddhists and Shintoists, sharing the gospel so they no longer seek cleansing from waters that hold no actual power, but instead encounter the God who can and will wash away their sins.

We hope to begin our training in May 2026, but we cannot achieve this without your support. Please prayerfully consider joining our monthly support team. The Japanese Buddhists and Shintoists are waiting to hear the gospel. Please help us reach them.

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