A missionary couple living in Okinawa, Japan, Anderson Godoy Salguer, and Janary Suyat de Godoy, are both graduates of Asia Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary. Anderson received his Masters of Divinity degree in 2014, and Janary received her degree in 2013. Their current assignments are specifically geared toward language study and intentional relationship building with the emerging leaders of Japan. Anderson studies Japanese full-time at a local university while Janary serves as the Youth Coordinator for the Asia-Pacific region of the Church of the Nazarene.
Sharing the Gospel in Japan requires patience and creativity in breaking cultural barriers. As stated by Janary, “According to the Joshua Project, about 1.2% of the population is Christian, and the country ranks as the second largest unreached people group.” The Godoys expressed, “The Lord has given us a burden for the unreached people groups and we believe the Lord placed us in Japan for a reason.” While attending Urasoe Church of the Nazarene in Okinawa, the ministries they are part of deepens their knowledge of the culture and language of Japan. Feeling welcomed as part of the church family, Anderson and Janary serve by teaching Sunday School or delivering Sunday sermons.
We give glory to God for His providence and guidance as they study at the university and serve in the church. Anderson’s knowledge of the Japanese language has improved to the point of surpassing his goals, and he has already passed the Japanese Language Proficiency Test. This allows Anderson to communicate more clearly when teaching and preaching to the people of Japan. At the same time, Janary is learning the Japanese language through the training of the youth as well as the support for various fields of the region. By building relationships through her Asia-Pacific NYI travels, her love for calligraphy, and the English-Japanese Language exchange, she is able to teach English and understand Japanese more effectively.
However, language barriers continue to make it difficult for Janary and Anderson to explain the faith coherently to people. Learning how to be patient with speaking the language, and building relationships between busy schedules is stretching their principles in ministry. Consistency and relevancy is needed when encouraging people to bond daily and spiritually. If not, the essence of the Gospel is lost, irrelevant, and a “turn-off” to people. Effective evangelism is enhanced when academic lessons are applied to cross-cultural ministry. The importance of sensitivity and availability depicts characteristics of Jesus to people in Okinawa.
In ministry, there are “little nuggets” to consider. First, everything is in God’s timing and there is no need to think about rushing the process. Deadlines and goals are beneficial until the focus turns from trusting in God. Secondly, instead of measuring success through “sheep” counting, live a life faithfully. Blessings will come to those yearning for hope and love when they find it is Jesus living in you. Janary explains nothing will be in vain if their focus on Jesus continues as they learn the Japanese language, the culture, and build relationships.
Pray for the mission God gave to Anderson and Janary Godoy. Keep in mind that God sustains them while learning the language, and building relationships with those whom they encounter. Also pray that the couple will boldly translate and converse coherently the Good News, as trust begins to be built with those around them. Pray for their discernment towards those lives God is molding. Let us pray for their patience as they disciple young people into a deeper relationship with our Lord.
Anderson and Janary give their regards to their APNTS family. “We are grateful for the APNTS faculty and staff for your time in investing in our growth. Thank you to the APNTS community for your encouragement and prayers for us. Our encouragement to the students is to press on! The challenge of staying despite frustrations or difficulties is part of your growth that will help you in life and ministry in the future. So savor every moment and learn from the classroom as well as the relationships around you. Every good and bad thing can be used by the Lord for His purposes, so don’t give up!”
