IMI In The News
Maritime Ministries World
Wide News Release
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| Seiya Maru |
Cap'n Billy Fanska describes their ministry this way: "Island Ministries International (IMI) was conceived out of a need to bring the Gospel of Jesus to the Ryukyu Islands where the Christian population is less than 1 percent. The lack of resources on these islands opens the doors for many ministry opportunities. IMI's concept is to establish relationships with the island people by ministering to their needs, and through recreation. We have been discovering pockets of 1-3 isolated Christians on the islands. IMI will provide fellowship and support for these brothers and sisters. Some of the larger islands have a small church or maybe two. IMI will support these works as well. We are beginning to generate a lot of interest in this project on the Japanese side. Brother Nori, my assistant Pastor, has been handling all of our translations, my wife, Izumi, is making Christian comics, other members of IMI are pitching in by creating shell jewelry from the islands where we minister, encouraging their friends to join us, and drawing logo's for IMI Wear. Currently, IMI is financed completely through memberships, mission trips, and donations. Join us for the mission journey of a lifetime!"
Agape Press News Release
...A Christian outreach has been formed to
address the issue of inconsistent ministry to the people in the remote islands
of Okinawa, Japan. Island
Ministries International (IMI) has been
formed as a company rather than a non-profit organization so as to avoid being
restricted in its activities by the Japanese government; however, the
Okinawa-based company considers evangelism its chief product. IMI also offers
mission trips for small groups of 8 to 12 people. The area where IMI does its
outreach presents a number of challenges for missionaries: the islands are
located in the so-called "10/40 Window" and stretch over 600 miles
within what is known as "Typhoon Alley" -- a region that often
experiences as many as 12 hurricanes annually. Most of the villages on the outer
islands are small with limited resources, and they are often characterized by
water shortages and lack of medical care facilities. Idolatry and ancestor
worship are prevalent, as is poverty. IMI is focused on establishing
relationships with the islanders and introducing them to Jesus in the course of
addressing their other perceived needs. Island Ministries International
encourages supporters to pray for the ministry and partner with it by becoming
members, donating supplies, or going on an IMI mission trip. [Jenni Parker]
Okinawa, Japan -- Cap'n Billy is the first foreigner in Japan to legally be the Skipper of a Japanese flagged commercial fishing vessel. He is also the first foreigner in Japan to be registered by the government as a Recreational Fishing Guide. He is the Pastor of Eternal Fellowship Christian Church, and is supported by the Hand of God through commercial fishing and fishing charters. He is currently the Skipper of a 55 foot, 11 ton fishing vessel, the Seiya Maru. The name of this vessel means to become holy. His First Mate, Izumi, helps Cap'n Billy in all of his endeavors, and has been steadfast and faithful even through the toughest of times. The remote islands in Okinawa, Japan pose some interesting challenges for missionary outreaches. This island chain is located well within what has become known as the "10/40 window". The islands stretch over 600 miles, and is located in "Typhoon Alley". On the average we experience about 8-12 typhoons (hurricanes) each year. The Christian population in these islands is less than 1 percent. Most villages on the outer islands are very small, maybe only about 200 residents. Resources on the islands are very limited. One island in particular experiences water shortages almost every year. Other villages have no medical care, and must be flown out by helicopter for emergency medical treatment. Most residents on the outer islands are elderly, which presents a unique issue by itself. Evidence of idolatry and ancestor worship are everywhere. From the elaborate tombs, to the lion/dog mounted on almost every building for the purpose of keeping the evil spirits away. In the homes, the eldest son keeps a "butsudan" or a worship memorial of his parents when they pass away. They pray to this daily, and have elaborate rituals about twice a year. The islands themselves are very beautiful. Made from mountain peaks that stretch upward from the edge of the continental shelf, the cliffs and subsequent coral formations are breathtaking. The islands are located in a whale migration path. In the spring, we frequently sight whales on our trips to the islands. Island Ministries International is focused on a holistic ministry to the people of these islands. We feel that we will be able to introduce them to Jesus through establishing relationships from this type of ministry. |
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IMI has also been featured on other news sites such as: Curtis Road, HCJB World Radio, Global Outreach, Churchquest, Christian.com, and American Family Association
