Digital Commons Network^™

Japanese Baptismal Vows, Bruce L. Bauer

Journal of Adventist Mission Studies

"Initiation ceremonies are important in most cultures; however, they need to be carried out in culturally sensitive ways. The changes suggested above did not change in any way the purpose or content of the baptismal day. The only thing that was changed was a strong emphasis on groupness. The missiological implication from this case study is that one size does not fit all situations. There is more than one way to do most church ceremonies, so church leaders need to be encouraged to rethink what they do and do everything in culturally sensitive ways."

Preparing Pastors To Train Laity For Church Growth In The Seventh-Day Adventist Church In Japan, Akeri Suzuki

Professional Dissertations DMin

Problem

The annual number of baptisms in the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church in Japan has decreased from 426 in 1986 to 334 in 1995 despite increases in both the total membership and number of churches. During the same period of time, the number of pastors has declined from 118 in 1986 to 112 in 1995. Thus, the average annual baptisms per pastor has decreased from 3.61 in 1986 to 2.98 in 1995.

Method

Current literature was reviewed. This included books and articles on the principles, strategies, and programs which help pastors develop their abilities to equip the laity and to …

The Seventh-Day Adventist Family In Japan, Warren Ivan Hilliard

Professional Dissertations DMin

Problem

There are indications that failure on the part of Christian workers in Japan to develop a family-centered strategy of evangelism based on a balanced appreciation of the cultural integrity of that country has contributed to the slow growth of Christianity. The Seventh-day Adventist Church, while stressing the importance of the family, has largely failed to understand the Japanese family and to realize its potential for evangelism.

Method

The project was organized in two parts. As the Seventh-day Adventist family in Japan was seen to be first of all Japanese, a review of the literature concerning the characteristics and development …