James & Yui Benefiel

James is a photographer and graphic designer; Yui has been homeschooling their five lively children. They met in Miyagi, Japan, while serving those who were affected by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. They are serving with the MTW Community Arts Team in Seto, Aichi. The vision for CAT is to reach the Japanese with the gospel through the arts. Japan strongly values beauty, form, and craftsmanship. Art, then, can organically spark conversations about creation, identity, and faith.

The Benefiels long to see the Japanese people find their identity in Christ and be reconciled to their Creator. Having formerly been a devout Shintoist and Buddhist, Yui knows the challenges new Christians face in Japan. She hopes to mentor and encourage them to hold fast to God’s faithfulness.

As a family, they will serve the community of Seto by establishing a nurturing community, cultivating new Christians, and nourishing missional churches.

Please pray as they seek to glorify God and advance His kingdom.