She, an American, says the Japanese harbor town is “just like Fort Bragg.”
Years ago a Japanese man invited the mayor of Fort Bragg, Calif., to visit his city of Otsuchi, Japan. That sparked an ongoing cultural exchange relationship that saw its 10th birthday last year. This sister-city partnership also has given some Californians an opportunity to serve and assist the people of Otsuchi, which is still picking up the pieces after experiencing a devastating earthquake less than a year ago.
Watch this video to get a taste of this sister-city partnership we’ll be exploring over the next couple of weeks.
What can we learn from these cities about the Kingdom, global engagement and the practice of giving ourselves away?
I watched the 60 minutes video as recommended and my heart was greatly touched. it was a great use of 11 minutes. I cannot wait to go to Japan this May with The Upstream Collective. Thank you Billy for sharing this vision. Imagine what Christ followers can do in their own city at a city level to touch another city half way around the world. The possibilities are limitless.
Thanks, Larry! Be on the lookout soon for the full version of the 60 Minutes clip (that you mention) in the upcoming weeks. Until then, enjoy this brief look at the segment, posted with the link, above.
Thank you for your support of our sister city relationship! It is deeply appreciated.
It is a real honor to have you comment on this Sharon! You and Fort Bragg have set an amazing example of what it looks like to “put the needs and interests of another ahead of yourselves”. I showed the full “60 Minutes” story to our St. Petersburg, Florida team this past Saturday and cast a vision for us to love on our Sister City (St. Petersburg, RU) through some of their hurts in a similar manner. They were very inspired by your story. Thank you for allowing it to be told and for giving yourself away.