The History of Our WELS Mission in Japan with Historical and Cultural Background

Abstract

William F. Bernhardt’s essay provides a comprehensive overview of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod’s (WELS) mission work in Japan, set against the backdrop of Japan’s cultural, religious, and historical context. Beginning with Japan’s resistance to Christianity and the dominance of Shintoism and Buddhism, the essay traces the slow but persistent growth of Christian outreach. Bernhardt details the challenges faced by missionaries, including cultural barriers, educational pressures, and legal restrictions, while highlighting key milestones such as the founding of the Lutheran Evangelical Christian Church (LECC) and the development of indigenous leadership. The essay also documents the evolution of mission strategy, seminary training, literature outreach, and the establishment of congregations across Japan. Despite limited conversions, Bernhardt emphasizes the enduring faithfulness of missionaries and the grace of God in sustaining the mission. The work serves as both a historical record and a call to continued gospel proclamation. Abstract generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4).