Tiger Athletic Missions Experience Blog

Day 4 Blog
Yasmin Hamilton - Junior  
Claire Alexander - Senior

Sunday, August 4, 2019
Sunday's recap of the ETBU Cheer, Pom, and Acrobatics and Tumbling TAME trip to Japan is provided by Sophomore Yasmin Hamilton and Senior Claire Alexander. 
 
"Sunday morning began with the incredible opportunity to spend time with the Joy Joy children's ministry at the church during their morning worship service. We learned previously that many children aren't allowed to attend church because in the Japanese culture, Sunday's are a time to work or play sports, rather than attending a church or worshipping. During our time with the ministry we were introduced, performed, and offered personal testimonies, before performing again. I became captivated by the smallest of kids with eyes closed and hands raised in complete worship of God. They had so much joy. 
 
Fallon Hilliard and Jaqueline Comparin gave their testimonies and Tiger Cheer, Tiger Pom, and Acrobatics and Tumbling showed off some skills. The kids and adults cheered in total awe and excitement. It felt so encouraging. Initially I was worried about not be able to communicate with anyone because of the language barrier, but it didn't stop the Holy Spirit from moving in that desperately hot play area. 
 
One by one, the kids began to open up to us and play. Someone brought out water guns and water balloons, so the kids began to soak us all. Laughter consumed the yard and there was not a dry kid or ETBU student around. Today, I was overwhelmed to see the Japanese children and adults genuinely love the Lord and hungry to spend time with other believers in a community where it is not popular. I was very glad to be able to use my sport to be a part of it," Hamilton said.  
 
Alexander said, "Sunday morning in Japan started with a delicious meal prepared by members of the church. We were able to attend a Sunday school service that opened our hearts to understand the true meaning of the Lord's work.  It was an amazing experience to witness the passion of the Sunday school children in another country.  Performing for the kids was probably the highlight of my day and seeing their smiles as the Pom team danced, the cheer team chanted, and the Acro team tumbled and stunted, was such a humbling experience. The joy on there faces lifted our spirits and reminded of the amazing opportunities God has given us to spread His love here at Japan."