In September 1960, Steve and Evelyn Metcalf opened yet another pioneer church work in Aomori Prefecture in the coastal town of Ajigasawa, a county seat (pop. 24,000 at the time). They had been urged to come by a Mr. Tsukamoto, possibly the only openly witnessing believer in the area at that time. In rapid succession, a total of 6 different missionaries ministered here for 4 years, then left the work in charge of John and Judy Chisholm in Goshogawara. The church carried the responsibility for 4 members here until we (John and Laurie Elliot) arrived in 1985.
Evangelism is a slow process here - we have "seekers" of 15 year's standing, and the same number of members as when we started. So, what is there to be positive about? First, we now have our own land and church building (seats 50) with a parsonage attached. The buildings were put up in 1995, adding a whole new dimension to our work. They are in a much more prominent location, and they give a sense of permanence and commitment which was lacking when we met in the living room of a rented house on a narrow back street. We are able to hold large meetings at times convenient to ourselves (local halls shut down at 9 p.m.), and building on 19 years of acquaintance with people here, we are beginning to gain some trust and respectability.
Much seed has been sown, but harvests mature slowly in this rural climate! In addition to our work with Ajigasawa Church, we are involved in development of the campground near Aomori City (Moya Camp),and in camp programs, as well as work with KGK (IVF) and teens in all of our Aomori churches. Pray for us as we strive to bring the Gospel to the 20,000 people of Ajigasawa, Morita and Fukaura, for which our church is the only resident Gospel witness. (John & Laurie Elliot - 2004)