3.11.Kairos.moment

March 11, 2026
By JOSEPH W. HANDLEY

Today marks another anniversary of the 3.11 triple disaster in Japan—the earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear crisis that devastated Tohoku in 2011.

I still remember the being in Karuizawa when the quake hit and how long it lasted (the longest I've ever experienced!). I also recall watching the waves roll in on the news, praying for friends and partners across Japan.

tsunami thankyouFor us at A3, that moment became more than a tragedy. It became a kairos moment.

In the months and years that followed, we walked alongside pastors and churches in the region offering encouragement, training, and long-term partnership as they shepherded communities through unimaginable loss.

One of the most beautiful expressions of hope to emerge from those days was the Nozomi Project in Ishinomaki. What began as a simple effort to help women rebuild their lives after the tsunami has grown into a powerful testimony of dignity, community, and the Gospel at work.

nozomi-project-aboutOver time, we came to see that even in the darkest moments, God was opening hearts in Japan in new ways. Churches were strengthened, leaders emerged, and seeds of hope were planted.

Fifteen years later, I still believe what we sensed then: God often meets us most profoundly in the valleys of suffering.

Today I pause to pray for the people of Tohoku, for the pastors and churches who continue to serve faithfully there, and for the ongoing work of hope and restoration across Japan.

Out of ashes, God continues to bring life.

Rev. Joseph W. Handley, Jr., Ph.D.
CEO, A3

@jwhandley
@jwhandley
@JosephWHandleyJr
linkedin@jwhandley
emailThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Related Articles