Japanese Evangelical Missionary Society
Carrying the hope of Christ to Japan since 1950.
We bridge hearts to Christ and one another through missions, community, and discipleship — from Asian American college students to missionaries across Japan.
<1%
of people in Japan profess faith in Christ
1950
founded by Nisei pastors at Mount Hermon
32
career missionaries serving in Japan
1,500+
gather at JEMS Mount Hermon each year
Our Mission
使命
- 01
Building God's church.
- 02
Reaching the next generation.
- 03
Proclaiming the Good News of Jesus in Japan.
The JEMS Journal
Stories from the field
Reflection · July 7, 2026
Midyear Reflection: The Necessity of Solitude with God
Looking to Jesus’ own rhythm of solitude and prayer, Kenny Wada reminds us that quiet time with the Father is not optional, but essential to a life of faithful obedience.
On the field
Japan remains one of the least-reached nations on earth.
Meet the missionaries and partners carrying the Gospel from Hokkaido to Nagasaki — and see where each one is serving.
- 北海道・東北Hokkaido & Tohoku5
- 関東Kanto9
- 中部Chubu6
- 関西Kansai4
- 九州Kyushu1
Our ministries
Many ministries. One calling.
“Seven days to deepen your faith together.”
- 一Japan MissionsSending and supporting missionaries and partners among one of the least-reached nations on earth.
- 二JEMS Mount HermonSeven days of worship, Bible teaching, and fellowship in the redwoods — every summer since 1950.
- 三Sports MinistryTournaments, clinics, and camps that people are excited to bring their friends to.
- 四日語部 NichigoJapanese-language ministry for immigrants, Japanese speakers in America, and nationals in Japan.
- 五AACFAsian American Christian Fellowship — reaching college students since 1974.
一九五〇年
Our heritage
Born out of resilience and faith.
After World War II, a group of Nisei pastors felt called to bring the Gospel to Japan — yet major denominations refused to send missionaries of Japanese ancestry. Undeterred, they gathered in prayer at Mount Hermon and founded a mission of their own.
Read our storyWho we are
A Christian, non-profit, para-church organization headquartered in Downtown Los Angeles — supported by an interdenominational network of Japanese and Asian American churches.
Matthew 28:18–19
Make an impact today.
Your gift sends missionaries, gathers students, and strengthens churches across Japan and the United States.
Ways to give