Serving the Homeless in Tokyo

Did you know that there are homeless people in Japan? And did you know that a short term worker in OMF helped start one of the weekly ministry to the homeless in Tokyo?

Poor, Urban
Social Issues, Personal Discipleship, Personal Evangelism
6 weeks to 6 months, 6-11 months
Japan


Job Description

Most people pass by and pretend not to notice the homeless gathered along the walkways in Ikebukuro, the busiest train station in the world. These Japanese don’t really “fit in” with the expected neat and tidy front that surrounds them. But just like the smartly dressed ones who walk by, these Japanese need the message of the love and acceptance that Jesus gives. Through weekly distributing of food and helping at an outdoor service and partnering at a “homeless friendly” church, OMF is reaching out to the marginalized. Won’t you come to serve alongside us and help meet the physical and spiritual needs of the homeless in Japan?

Responsibilities

This opportunity will be available from March 2026. What the role entails: Helping to distribute food regularly as well as attending and sometimes helping at an outdoor service Attending and serving at a church. Connecting to and befriending Japanese. Learning how to share your faith in a culturally-sensitive way. Meeting up regularly with other missionaries for fellowship, accountability and prayer. Japanese language learning through classes or self-study. Some Japanese language is a definite plus!! (So start studying!!!) *This ministry may be combined with other ministries such as helping at the Guest Home or Returnees ministry.

Qualifications

Willingness to take initiative and get to know new people. Friendly and outgoing. Willingness to serve and learn. Flexible and able to improvise when needed. Good time management. Comfortable being and working on your own as well. Ability to work alongside an international team. Willing to adapt and adjust to fit in to a different culture. Available for 3 months, 6 months or 1 year (a tertiary-level qualification is required for a 1 year visa).

Living Situation

You will be probably be living at a share house, in or near Tokyo (with your own room, but a shared living, kitchen and toilet) which will provide you with a chance to get to know other Japanese and internationals. You will get around by foot, bicycle and train; so bring some very comfortable walking shoes. Japan is safe, clean and convenient. As the biggest city in the world, Tokyo has more parks and sightseeing spots than you can count, so come ready to explore, serve and be used by God!

Japan

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Japan needs workers to partner with the Japanese church in the task of sharing the gospel and making disciples.

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Poor

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Spiritual and physical transformation found in the love of Christ is especially needed even amongst these least reached who live on and below the poverty line.

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Urban

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Ministry in the urban setting includes more than reaching the upwardly mobile urbanites. It also needs to serve the neglected, marginalized urban poor.

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Personal Discipleship

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Come alongside new believers as they grow deeper in their understanding of God and His word.

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Personal Evangelism

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Share God’s ever-lasting love, grace and hope with those who have never heard.

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Social issues

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Many people find themselves trapped in inescapable situations. We work to bring hope as we share the gospel.

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