Japan
Kevin and Kaori Laverman serve with WorldVenture as church planters in Japan. After being appointed by CBInternational (currently WorldVenture) for career service in 1997, the Lavermans moved to Japan in early 1999. Kevin spent the first two years in language and cultural study at the International Christian University. Meanwhile, Kaori watched their son, Justen Keiji, and began some Bible study groups for young mothers whose children attended a local kindergarten. After Kevin completed language studies in August 2001, the family moved to the Yokohama/Kawasaki area to begin a church planting work. The Lavermans are working with a core group of believers to multiply leadership and Bible study groups using believers’ homes. Kevin and Kaori have one son, Justen.
The group launched their first Sunday worship service as Denen Grace Chapel (www.denengracechapel.org) in November 2001. Kevin shares, “Slowly but steadily, God brought people to our church and to faith in his Son, Jesus. One by one, baptisms have added people to our small church which now numbers around 30.” This group of believers meets in a private hall for Sunday services. Twice monthly a relaxed “coffeehouse” style music service called “Sanbi Cafe” is also offered. A Gospel workshop and English classes attract community seekers. Small group Bible studies for ladies, men, and not-yet-Christians are also conducted. Believers are growing spiritually and becoming excited by the opportunities to reach their friends for Christ.