Word of Life Japan

Word of Life Japan was started by Yoshito Kato in 1982.
Word of Life Fellowship, Inc. is a leading youth training organization with youth clubs, youth camps and training centers in over 80 countries.

1982

When Yoshito and Hisako Kato returned to Japan to begin the new ministry of Word of Life in Osaka. They immediately started translating the Bible club materials into Japanese and started clubs in four different churches, holding leadership training meetings each month. They also started camps during the summer and Intensive Study Marathons during the Spring, Summer, and Winter school vacations.

1990

The Kato's moved operations from Osaka to Tokyo. 

1999

Tomoo and Kaori Koike joined the Word of Life team and moved to Sendai, the northern part of Japan to begin Bible clubs. Camps continue to be run in Sendai, and at various places around Japan.

2007

Word of Life Japan launched SYME (Studying Youth Ministries in English), a total immersion English and discipleship program designed for high school graduates. SYME serves a dual purpose: to equip the next generation of Christian leaders in Japan and to help students improve their English skills—particularly those planning to study abroad. Since its inception, SYME has helped over 100 Japanese students attend the Word of Life Bible Institute in New York, Florida, South Korea, and Hungary. Many others have gone on to study at institutions such as Moody Bible Institute, Cedarville University, Liberty University, Portland Bible College, Davis College, Trinity College, and more!

2013

Yoshito retired after 31 years of ministry and Randal & Dale Gilmore transitioned into the Director's role for Word of Life Japan.

2014

The Cross-Cultural Internship (CCI) program was started allowing ministry minded college students to earn their degree overseas while participating in active ministry with Word of Life Japan.

2019

Word of Life Japan moved its operation base to Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture.

2023

Kelly Smith transitioned into the Director’s role for Word of Life Japan. We continue to be active in Youth Ministries, which work in collaboration with SYME and the Cross Cultural Internship program.

2024

Takaaki Shirakawa joined the team as the Youth Ministries Coordinator and Kazuaki Shiobara joined the team as the SYME Coordinator.

2025

Word of Life Japan moved its operation base to Tokorozawa City, Saitama Prefecture.