Sunday in Japan

Well, we had our first Sunday in Japan. It took us about 30 minutes to drive to the meeting house in the middle of Zama City. Most of the roads were so narrow that if another car had come the other way there would have been a real problem. The actual meeting house has three stories to it. The first level is for parking, the second is where the chapel is, and the third has classrooms. The Japanese wards share the building with us and it is absolutely wonderful! We met several other families and are excited to be apart of the branch. The Branch is quite small with only 10 sisters attending Relief Society, 11 kids in primary, and 6 Elders in the entire priesthood quorum at the moment. They say that after Summer the Branch will get bigger. Marin loved Primary as well. There are several young girls about a year younger than Marin, but she gets along with them just fine. Oh yes, Marin wanted to be sure we let you know the building has an elevator!
We also found out how dedicated the members in Japan really are. The work week here is 6 days with the only day off being Sunday. Top that off with a regular 12+ hour work day and you can understand why these members are truly dedicated. They give up their only day off in order to attend church and fulfill church callings. They don't go on many excursions or outings because they keep the Sabbath day holy. What dedication and sacrifice.
The Church is true. Even here in Japan. I hope the spirit of the Sabbath will rest upon you today and that you will find peace and comfort in the Savior's promises.

Love,
Jeff, Emily, and Marin