Earthquake-proof

The new CBI building

Yesterday I spent the bulk of the day cleaning our new building which was very dirty from a lot of construction dust and age. The building was remodeled in some places but still maintained a lot of the original furniture, stairways, appliances, and windows. It was a big cleaning job that still wasn't done by the end of the day. I'm glad that I could contribute in this way and hopefully still be a help here in Japan, despite the short length of my stay.

I'm looking forward to the opening of the new building. CBI has come a long way and is quickly moving towards becoming an increasingly viable option for students to come and study. The new central location in downtown Nagoya while inconvenient for many currently on staff should be much easier for prospective students to attend.

The seminary however needs much more funds to continue to grow. Michael hopes to eventually purchase a small near-by dilapidated building to turn into a small dorm to house students. But the biggest need is money for the earthquake supports installed to make the building earthquake safe. Although expensive, the leadership decided that the safety made the support beams a necessary investment. While we've been trying to raise funds to cover the expense, we've only raised $30,000 of our $100,000 goal. Please pray that the building will be able to get done in time for new classes in September and that we would be able to raise adequate funding for proper safety. If you feel led, you can also contact me if you're interested in giving money to CBI for the earthquake supports.

Mopping up a dirty floor...for the 3rd time

The earthquake support beams

Thus says the LORD: “Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches, but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the LORD who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the LORD.”

Jeremiah 9:23-24 ESV