While Michael served as an intern in Chiba, Japan, God revealed to him the need for the gospel in this nation where many have never heard the message before. His heart for the Japanese led to a desire to do long-term ministry in Japan. In order to be better equipped, he returned to the U.S. where he earned master’s degrees in biblical studies and teaching English as a second language.

For over two years Cathalain’s family was stationed in Japan. She was exposed to the Japanese culture by living off base and attending a Japanese school. Although Cathalain was young, this experience shaped her love for other cultures. After graduating from Florida Southern College she taught high school in Virginia.

Michael and Cathalain met in Virginia, were married in May 2007 and had their son, Tobin, in May 2010. Together they share a heart for the Japanese and have been called to serve the Lord on the church-planting team in Nagoya, Japan. Michael will be involved in church planting through various means including teaching English classes and leading evangelistic Bible studies. Cathalain and Tobin will be involved in ministries within the church such as mom and kids clubs and various evangelistic outreach programs.

Currently the Carters are attending language school in Okazaki. Please pray as they study Japanese to learn the language quickly and be diligent in their daily studies, for the Bible Studies they lead throughout the week, for Michael as he preaches once a month, and for the Lord to provide guidance of where they should Church Plant after the completion of language school in March 2013.