CPI Bootcamp

Bootcamp?
Yup, bootcamp, but not a physical one, a spiritual one! I (Caleb) had the opportunity to go to a Church Planting "Bootcamp" conference in Chiba-ken a week ago. For three days we fellowshiped together, listened to different presenters who had been asked to share on a particular aspect of church planting. We worshiped together, prayed and wept together for Japan, encouraged each other, etc! It was a great time of encouragement, getting to know other missionaries and getting a firmer vision and direction as to where God is leading Amy and I.

Some highlights of the 3 days are:
- I was able to spend some good time with Richard Nakamura, a SEND missionary that I have had the privilege to get to know. I stayed at his place each night and we had long talks during the hour and a half to 2 hours that we drove (each way).
- I had great fellowship with many like-minded believers (in particular, those who are dedicated to seeing the Kingdom of God advance in Japan; those who see the importance of planting self-reproducing churches)
- increased my network of contacts in Japan
- got thoroughly excited and pumped as I listened to what the various presenters had to say
- so many speakers and discussions kept coming back to the basic command and promise of Jesus; namely that we are to MAKE DISCIPLES and HE WILL BUILD HIS CHURCH =D
- received some good advice and guidance from several missionaries
- came away with many things to think about and pray about
- came away with a more concrete vision of where God is leading
- confirmation from God on several things:
• that He wants Amy and I here in Japan
• that He is leading us to Gifu-ken (soon or later I don't know)
• that He is leading us into house church planting