Oasis Chapel
An overflowing oasis of life in Christ.
Rooted in history, reaching for the future.
Our Legacy
Since 1932, God has been weaving a story of grace in Rifu, Miyagi.
The Pioneer: Rev. Hisayoshi Saito
Oasis Chapel (formerly Rifu Baptist Church) was founded in 1932 by Rev. Hisayoshi Saito, a visionary pioneer and educator. At a time when Christianity was still foreign to many in rural Japan, Rev. Saito dedicated his life not only to preaching the Gospel but also to serving the local community through education.
He established kindergartens and social welfare foundations, believing that the love of Christ must be demonstrated in tangible ways. His legacy of "faith in action" continues to shape our DNA today.
The "Oasis Center" Story
Our beautiful 4.5-acre retreat facility, the Oasis Center, stands as a testament to international partnership. It was built through the prayers and generous cooperation of American missionaries who shared the vision of creating a sanctuary in the forest—a place where weary souls could find rest in God's creation.
We cherish our deep roots with overseas partners and continue to welcome friends from around the world.
Worship & Life
A place where you can be yourself and encounter God.
Diverse Worship Style
Our worship is a blend of the old and the new. We cherish the depth of traditional hymns while passionately singing contemporary worship songs.
We also sing original songs composed by our own community, expressing our unique journey with God in this land.
Family Atmosphere
While we are a Baptist church with a membership structure, the atmosphere is far from rigid. We are a warm, spiritual family.
From a vibrant youth community to faithful seniors, and with English speakers mixed in, you will find a place where you belong. You are not a stranger here; you are family.
What We Believe
For those seeking a church home, here is our statement of faith. We stand on the historic Christian faith.
We believe that the Holy Bible, consisting of sixty-six books of the Old and New Testaments, is the only written Word of God. It was written by men moved by the Holy Spirit and is verbally inspired in every word, making it a living book. We believe the Bible is the Word of God Himself, without error, and the absolute standard by which all human conduct, creeds, and opinions should be tried.
We believe in the only living and true God who is holy, righteous, and loving. We believe in the Trinity: God exists as three distinct persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—equal in essence and power. He is the Creator, Redeemer, and Sovereign Ruler of all.
We believe that salvation is a gift of God’s amazing grace, purchased by the redeeming blood of Jesus Christ. It is not by works but solely by grace through faith. It is received by those who repent of their sins and confess Jesus as Lord and Savior.
We believe the local church is a congregation of baptized believers, associated by covenant. Led by God-ordained leaders, our mission is to worship God, observe the ordinances (Baptism and the Lord's Supper), and preach the Gospel until the end of the age.
We believe in the visible, bodily return of Jesus Christ in power and glory. This hope encourages us to live faithfully today.
Join Us This Sunday
Service Time: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
(Written English summary available at reception)
Oasis Chapel is conveniently located for those living in or visiting the Sendai area.
Come and find your spiritual oasis.