Imagine living in a country where Christianity is seen as a foreign religion that doesn’t fit you or your culture. You probably would never have met a Christian, so your only perception might be that the US is a “Christian” nation. If that were your situation, how would the gospel ever get to you?

Our strategy for reaching people in this situation is to use shared common interests to build relational bridges with them. As they live in community together, the Jesus-follower talks about Christ while demonstrating His love. After someone encounters Jesus through a Christian, they often become more open to meeting Him through the Bible.

Rock climbing is a popular sport in Japan and Yamanashi is a major destination. Just a few hours from Tokyo, this beautiful city lies in the mountains, where a rock climbing community has formed to serve visiting climbers. When you climb together, you are constantly depending on the other person, even putting your life in their hands. These deep connections can quickly break down walls and lead to deep conversations.

If you love Jesus and want to introduce Him to others while learning from other cultures, this could be the perfect opportunity for you. Encompass is looking for experienced rock climbers or administrative workers to help support this ministry. If you have either of these gifts, would you consider exploring this ministry in Yamanashi?

DURATION 

• A 6–8 week internship starting in June or July 2024

COMPONENTS

• You will be involved in serious climbs, build relationships with a growing Japanese church, and connect with Japanese climbers.

MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES

• Observe and participate in climbing as a relational bridge for the gospel
• Experience the joys and challenges of starting a new ministry
• Build relationships with Japanese believers focused on reaching Japan
• Get to know Japanese climbers
• Learn missional principles for sharing the unchanging gospel in a new culture

REQUIREMENTS

• You must have experience in serious rock climbing. 
• You need to be focused on building relationships, not creating programs. Flexibility is critical.
• Help us connect Japanese people with the reality of Jesus.

WHO CAN GO

• We invite you to consider this opportunity if you have a desire to serve in cross-cultural ministry, a supportive sending church, and if you’ve had a previous positive short-term missions experience. Our internships are designed for those who are college age and up. An interest in business and community development is also valuable.

ENCOMPASS PROVIDES

Both prior to and during the internship, Encompass will provide mentoring and training to facilitate your personal, professional, and spiritual growth. This includes:

• Mentorship prior to deploying for initial orientation as well as assistance with travel preparations
• Support with acclimation and orientation upon your arrival in country
• Regular meetings between you and your mentor to discuss cultural adjustment, goals, and expectations
• Evaluations between you and your mentor together with Encompass staff during and upon your return

NEXT STEPS

Are you interested in using your passion and skills in rock climbing to share Jesus with Japanese climbers? Contact one of our mobilizers to learn more.