Jonah's 2025 Japan Missions Trip

Hi there!

If you’d like to stay updated on my ministry journey, feel free to sign up for my newsletter here!

My name is Jonah Swenson, and for those who don’t know me, I’m a former missionary kid who grew up in Japan with a Japanese mother and an American father. Growing up as a missionary kid in Japan came with its own set of unique challenges — living as somewhat of an exile both in my faith and in my ethnicity. Japanese culture, in particular, can often feel isolating to those who don’t quite fit the norm.

One of the most formative parts of my story was Hi-ba Camp — a ministry God used powerfully in my life. It was there that my faith became my own, and I realized I wasn’t alone in this walk with Jesus.

Last year (you can read my reflection from last year here), by God’s grace and through the generosity of many supporters, I had the privilege of returning to Hi-ba Camp as a volunteer. I got to help lead, serve, and witness God working in the lives of many young missionary kids and Third Culture Kids (TCKs) growing up in Japan — kids just like I once was.

This year, I’ve been invited back again by the Hi-ba staff — not only to serve as a counselor but also to step into the role of Worship Director. Worship was always one of the most meaningful parts of my time at Hi-ba Camp as a student, and that legacy continues today — many campers still say worship is their favorite part of the week. I am also very excited to be able to continue building the relationships I built from last year and to be able to continue to pour into these high schoolers and be a presence of someone who is slightly further in life and can help give guidance, mentorship, and advice.

If you would consider partnering with me in this ministry — either through prayer or financial support — I would be incredibly grateful.

All funds raised will go directly toward covering my travel expenses to and from Japan. Any additional donations beyond my personal needs will go toward Hi-ba Camp’s ongoing camp ReBirth renovation project, which you can learn more about here.

Thank you so much for your consideration and partnership in this work!

In Christ,

Jonah Swenson