This morning we had a slight lie-in as the coach didn’t leave the hotel ’til 9am, to leave for Tamagawa Christian University, which was welcomed by many. Upon arriving at the venue the band got set up for a rehearsal in the concert hall, which is just spectacular.
After a light lunch the band got changed into their festival uniform to have a sound check with Olivia and then we had a group photo with the alumni of the University. This included our host from last night who is part of the alumni and generously supports the University as well.
At 2pm the 2 hour concert commenced with A Christmas Festival followed by three of the soloists; Grant, Olivia and Emma. Doing Air ‘n Variations, O Holy Night and Through The Fair respectively.
After the remainder of the five pieces from the first half and a testimony from Jonathan the band had an intermission before cracking into the second half with a rousing rendition of Let There be Light.
I shared a brief message tying in the theme of Light and Christmas, before Olivia led those gathered in the Christmas Carol, O Come All Ye Faithful which she did in Japanese.
Another four pieces were shared by the band before they sang When I Survey which had many of the people speechless. A number of people mentioned afterwards how moved they were not just by the music of the band, but in particular the singing.
One lady even commenting that the final song moved her so much that she now has a fresh understanding of God and how he has been at work in her life. Another young lady came up to me as soon as the concert was over eagerly shaking my hand and thanking me for my message and that it had moved her to know Him more. To God be the Glory!
This is not the first time that we have heard this throughout the tour ~ there is definitely a Spiritual hunger in Japan to know more about God and as Christmas approaches His Son Jesus.
After the concert there was some time set aside for a group of students to share in fellowship and have a question and answer time with the band.
Then when headed back to our hotel, stopping along the way to get dinner at an all-you-can-eat restaurant which was delicious. All in all another full on day, but we’ll worth it!
The life and times of Perry... 