OMF began a new church plant in Hiraoka (Kiyota Ward of Sapporo) in May 1991. Initially work was done though tracting, English and cooking classes as well as Sunday School and Sunday Services. For the first 10 years meetings were held in rented houses. However as numbers grew there was a pressing need to move to a venue bigger than what a rented house could offer. The Lord supplied a meeting place (previously a cram school building) in an ideal location with limited parking, but on a convenient bus route.
The implementation of cell groups, with an emphasis on training believers to exercise their gifts, has been blessed by the Lord and has resulted in a surge of growth. Membership now stands at 41 (2004). Quite a number of believers have been trained to do Bible studies with seekers, as well as preparing new believers for baptism. A joyful, family spirit pervades the church. Hiraoka's population is growing annually and God has established His church here to be a light to lost around us. Praise His Name!