Andy Duncan
Marunouchi Church Tokyo Assistant
As I reflect on my first year let me begin by expressing my deep gratitude and respect for all that I have been privileged to participate in with Tokyo Marunouchi Partnership. As I reflect, I am struck by how each aspect of the organization – from the Marunouchi Office Groups to the Samurai Projects, the Marunouchi Church Tokyo, and the General Administration team – show in their respective endeavors a real commitment to serving Christ faithfully. I am thankful for the humility shown by the leadership and staff in building a team dynamic marked by friendship and gospel encouragement.
I have watched as office groups have not only grown in number but also deepened in spiritual leadership – with lay leaders taking initiative, and non-Christian friends and colleagues being welcomed. I have personally watched the creation and growth of 2 new groups which serve as a testament to this.
Although not personally involved with the day-to-day activities of the Samurai Projects, I have prayed for and watched the program continue to grow and be a remarkable witness to God’s diverse calling across Japan, raising up apprentices countrywide. The Samurai team has dealt with significant difficulties and yet continues to cultivate theological depth and practical pastoral skills in its trainees.
In the Marunouchi Church Tokyo ministry, I am encouraged by the vision to build a worshipping community rooted in Scripture. Week by week I have been with and prayed with MCT leaders for the Lord to establish a local church that can proclaim Christ clearly in both word and life.
The Administration team are faithful stewards working on the complexities of operating a non-profit organization.
I’m not sure how much I’ve been able to add over the past year to the already well functioning team but I’m happy that at least when needed, I can pick up the heavy furniture in the office and move it.
Overall, I feel deeply privileged to have begun a relationship of friendship while working alongside the people in the TMP orbit. I pray that in the days and months ahead, for as long as I’m at TMP, that the staff, leaders, samurai trainees and group participants will continue to fix their eyes on Christ, our Chief Shepherd, as we serve side by side, knowing that our labor in the Lord is never in vain.
“To him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.”
Ephesians 3:21