Building a Church in Urawa Misono: A Leap of Faith
For the past few months, together with our partner church in Japan, we’ve been praying and searching for land to purchase for the purpose of building a church. Hatogaya Evangelical Free Church—the Japanese church we’ve been part of since 2020—has boldly decided to take out a substantial loan to make this vision a reality. We’re trusting the Lord to provide the additional funds for a building through donations, both from within Japan and abroad.
We’re working toward planting the first church in Urawa Misono, a rapidly growing area with over 30,000 residents. Right now, we meet in homes, cafés, and rental rooms—which, while cozy and occasionally caffeinated, come with limitations. We often can’t use the spaces freely, and availability can be unpredictable.
And so, the ambitious (some might say slightly audacious!) task of buying land and building a church began.
When “Stadium Church” Was Almost a Thing…
There was one plot of land we were especially excited about. We did multiple prayer walks there with members of Hatogaya and our home church in South Africa. The property was around 230 square meters and in a great location. From it, you could see the roof of the town’s main attraction—the football stadium! We even joked about calling it “Stadium Church.”
But just as the vision began to take shape, we received the sad news: the land had been sold. Ouch. After so many prayers and dreams, it felt disheartening. But even in disappointment, we reminded ourselves—God has something better in store.
What I’ve Learned About Buying Land in Japan
Since this is my first time doing anything like this, I’ve learned a few things—some inspiring, some confusing:
1. Land is small. And expensive.
Coming from South Africa, the size of Japanese plots was… surprising. Our Japanese friends visited the 230m² plot and exclaimed, “Wow, it’s so nice and big!” Our South African friends? “Is this it?”
Land in Japan is often carved up into bite-sized portions, but somehow still carries a king-sized price tag.
2. Not all land is ‘church-friendly’.
Many properties can’t legally be used for anything other than residential purposes. Some owners also shy away from selling to churches. Every promising plot means phone calls to city offices and a maze of legal checks.
3. Japan is quiet—like, really quiet.
Noise complaints are a serious concern. Worship services with singing and community activities could easily be labeled a nuisance if we’re not careful. So we have to consider where we build just as much as what we build.
4. You need a good team.
If this were all up to me… let’s just say it would be a disaster. Thankfully, we’re blessed with amazing Japanese Christians: a Japanese pastor, a Christian family who’s lived in the area for six years, an architect, and a real estate agent from Hatogaya. Their wisdom and generosity make this possible.
5. Hatogaya Church is bold and generous.
With about 120 members, Hatogaya isn’t a megachurch—but their faith is strong. For years they’ve invested in church planting, and now they’re taking another leap. I’m deeply moved by their courage and commitment to the Gospel.
A Promising Plot
Recently, we found another potential property. It’s large—563 square meters—and located on a main road. But… (there’s always a “but,” right?) it’s 15 million yen over budget, and the land includes some stubborn old buildings and a massive tree that looks like it stepped straight out of a Ghibli movie.
So we weren’t too enthusiastic.
But then came some surprising news:
- The owner is a Christian.
- The land will be cleared before the sale.
- He’s willing to lower the price.
Suddenly, things got very real. We’re now seriously praying about this property. Communication is flying between the bank, the city office, the owner, and the real estate agent. It’s all very exciting… and just a little nerve-wracking.
But deep down, we believe God has His people among the 30,000 residents of Urawa Misono—and that this church plant is part of His plan.
How You Can Be Involved
This task is too big for one person, one family, or even one church. And that’s the beauty of the body of Christ—we don’t do this alone.
🙏 Would you pray with us?
Pray for wisdom, provision, and open hearts in this community.
💬 If the Lord moves your heart to contribute…
A project fund has been opened through OMF to receive overseas donations. Please email me for the details:
📧 ajmeiring316@gmail.com
Let’s pray that a Gospel river flows through Urawa Misono—bringing life, hope, and joy to its people. And perhaps one day, we’ll welcome you here—not just to see a building, but to meet people whose lives are being transformed by the Gospel.
Called East 