HISTORY
Faith Baptist Church is a Baptist Church ministering to the
military community of MCAS, Iwakuni, Japan. In January 1983, B.I.M.I.
missionaries, Bill and Viola Johnston, were led of God to begin a
ministry to the Americans in addition to their existing ministry to
the Japanese. Bro. Johnston rented a house on Hwy. 188, across from
the high school and began holding services. In August of that year,
the church moved to its present location, one block from the main
gate of MCAS.
The present pastor, Zane Abbott, arrived
in August, 1986. His wife, Burma joined him in January, 1987.
In 1990, major renovations were done on both the outside and
inside of the church building. Two small buildings were added to be
used as a nursery and additional Sunday School facilities.
1998 brought many changes, the biggest being the provision
of the Lord in working out the circumstances and the finaces to
purchase the land where the church is located. An additional small
building was erected to be used as a prayer-counseling room, which
was greatly needed as a part of the ministry . Shortly thereafter, a
new multi-room was added in a new building across the street from
the church.
Faith Baptist Church is founded upon three
things, the Word of God, prayer, and the Great Commission. Since it's beginning, the church had shared the facilities with a Japanese Pastor from Hiroshima for a Sunday evening service and a weekly ladies Bible study.
The attendance of the church naturally fluctuates because of
the military rotation and deployments.
In order to meet the
needs of all segments of the military community, many ministries are
offered. A van ministry and Sunday lunch are provided for the
singles and those who are without their families. During the Sunday
morning worship service, a primary and Junior church for the
children are provided as well as a nursery for toddlers.
It is
our prayer that Faith Baptist Church will continue to be a beacon
for Christ in this community until the Lord returns.
"Unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen." Eph. 3:21
