John Hoyle, an ELCA missionary in Japan, is an instructor of English as a foreign language at Luther Junior and Senior High School (Luther Gakuin) in Kumamoto and assists with a Lutheran congregation in Kumamoto.

John and Haruko Hoyle

Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Thank you for your many messages of concern and support following the Great East Japan Earthquake. Unlike many hundreds of thousands of families, Haruko and I were completely untouched by the disaster. Your continuing prayers for strength for those affected, as well as your generous support through ELCA Disaster Response has been heartening.

I have new missionary duties at the Hongo Student Center. I lead eight adult classes of English conversation and five children’s classes at the Center. Students in my adult classes range from high school students to senior citizens. I have beginner, pre-intermediate, intermediate and advanced classes. The children’s classes are divided by age group: 3-, 4- and 5-year olds. Besides teaching English, I also lead a weekly beginner Bible class at the Center. The students’ questions really keep me on my toes! At Hongo Lutheran Church, I am in charge of an English Bible-study class on Sunday mornings and preside at the evening English service. It all makes for a very enjoyable and fulfilling week. I am deeply thankful that I have been able to continue my missionary service with my life partner, Haruko, by my side!

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

John Hoyle