Christmas Caroling in Ishinomaki ??

Renewed hope is one of most urgent needs for the survivors of the tsunami.  And one of the most powerful sources of hope is music, especially songs of joy, cheer, and love.

So here comes the Dickens Christmas Carolers.  This won't be any ordinary caroling group.  Of course, we'll be singing the traditional carols (and a few contemporary favorites too) so we can sing almost anywhere: the open air, shopping malls, hospitals, schools, you name it.  But because the carols are full of the true meaning of Christmas, we'll have the opportunity to talk about the Gospel, and build new relationships among the audience with the local churches and missionaries.

We're putting together a 7-member ensemble from Westminster Chapel, plus our former staff member and good friend, Mika Takana who lives in Sendai.  We'll dress up in Victorian-era clothes (thanks to Marsha Stueckle and the Evergreen Family Theatre) and sing acappella carols all over Ishinomaki.

Our partners and hosts are Andy and Lorna Gilbert, who we connected with on the June trip to the tsunami area.  They are working hard to put the details together for our time there.

Meanwhile, the members here are raising support, rehearsing music, and preparing to travel to Japan.  Check back soon for more about the members of the team.