Introduction to the Pastors
Masami & Janeen Nakazawa
Senior Pastor
Hello. My name is Masami Nakazawa, and I am one of the senior pastors of Karuizawa International Bible Church.
I have visited around 70 countries so far, but I believe Karuizawa will be my final home. That is because everything truly important in my life happened in Karuizawa.
It was in Karuizawa that I first came to know God and became a Christian. I was baptized at Kumoba Pond. It was also in Karuizawa that I first met my American wife, Janeen.
Many years later, in 2017, I returned from the United States to Japan, and it was in Karuizawa that I began officiating Christian wedding ceremonies. Through that ministry, we were led to start a new church here in Karuizawa.
As the name suggests, Karuizawa International Bible Church is international. Our mission is not only to share the gospel with Japanese people, but to proclaim it to the whole world. Our worship services are conducted in both English and Japanese, and we livestream
John & Rhonda Wright
Teaching Pastor
“He is Risen.” He is risen indeed!
My name is John Wright. I am one of the three pastors of KIBC. What a joy to be able to greet you with the first words that announced the resurrection of Jesus. This greeting is the most widely used way to say hello on Easter Sunday. It is perfect for us at KIBC as an international church with members currently speaking five different languages. My wife Rhonda and I treasure the international fellowship and loving atmosphere of KIBC. It is one of the unique blessings of our church. The fact that Jesus is alive and living in and among us makes all of this possible and meaningful.
Rhonda and I both grew up as missionary kids here in Japan. Our parents were co-workers in the same mission organization so we were childhood friends. We attended international schools. This shared experience gave us a deep love of Japan and the Japanese people, as well as international connections and relationships. We began church planting ministry among the Japanese community in Houston, Texas, and then returned to Japan as career missionaries 1990, where we have been serving since. This is our fourth church plant, and I am overjoyed to share in the pastoral ministry of KIBC among a team of three pastors. I look forward to experiencing God’s love together with each of you at KIBC.
Masahide (Mark) & Deborah Nakamura
Media Pastor
Thank you so much for your continued prayers and support—we are truly grateful.
Recently, we’ve been reminded of God’s faithful guidance in our lives. Looking back, we can see how He has led us step by step, and we believe our ministry here in Karuizawa is part of His plan.
Masahide is currently serving through managing the YouTube livestream, while Deborah leads worship. We’re thankful to connect with people both online and in person, and to worship together each week.
Our church is a diverse, international community, and it’s a joy to see God at work across cultures and backgrounds.
Please continue to pray that more people will come to know Him through this ministry.