Since 1965, we have been a part of the West Tokyo community.
Who are we?
West Tokyo Union Church is an international, ecumenical, and interdenominational English-speaking congregation which seeks to welcome all people. Blessed with a congregation that is diverse and international, we seek to be a warm and friendly Christian community in the western area of the Tokyo metropolis.
We are a Protestant church and our worship tends to be traditional and liturgical. We affirm the historic, orthodox Christian faith and the Apostle’s and Nicene Creeds.
We welcome all who would like to join in Christian worship in English regardless of their nationality or background. WTUC is committed to reaching out to others in the community and the world through our prayer and outreach ministries.
WTUC is an associate member church of the National Christian Council in Japan.
Why are we here?
During the 1950s, there was a significant expansion westward away from the 23 central wards of Tokyo as international schools were built in the suburbs of the metropolis. As many of the families moved in order for their children to attend these schools, the leaders of Tokyo Union Church believed it was best to start an additional location to meet the growing need for those who wanted to worship in English while reaching out into the community where they lived.
The first service of West Tokyo Union Church was held on September 13, 1963, and the church was established in 1965.
We have had quite a number of pastors who have served our congregation, including some who spent time at Tokyo Union Church.
On April 29, 1990, we celebrated the 25th anniversary of our church. Rev. Glenn Gano was the preacher, and Rev. Dr. Noah Brannen was the liturgist. Resident pastors who were in attendance during the service included Rev. Dr. Noah Brannen, Rev. Hank French, Rev. Dr. Gordon Laman, and Rev. Dave Murchie.
As we approach our 60th anniversary, we look forward to seeing how God will lead us into the future serving the community around us and around the world.
WTUC Pastors
1960s-1970s
1968: Rev. James M. Phillips
1972: Rev. Frank B. Henry
1977–1981: Rev. George and Helen Borthwick
1980s
1980 (Summer): Rev. Howard Haines, Former TUC pastor
Feb. 1, 1982–Dec. 19, 1983: Rev. Richard and Mrs. Bea Smith
1984–1985: Rev. Philip and Bonny Bembower
1985 (Summer): Rev. Yugo Suzuki (bridge pastor)
Oct. 1985–Aug.. 1986: Resident pastors and missionaries (preaching rotation)
Sept. 7, 1986–July 1988: Rev. John and Suzann Harland
Oct. 23, 1988–June 18, 1989: Resident pastors and missionaries (preaching rotation)
1990s-2020s
Sept. 22, 1991–June 26, 1994: Rev. Robert and Dee Eades
Sept. 1994–June 2011: Rev. Claudia Genung-Yamamoto
June 2011–June 2013: Rev. Susan Page Townsley and Rev. Teresa Thompson Sherrill
June 2013–Aug. 2016: Rev. Teresa Thompson Sherrill
Sept. 2016–Feb. 2021: Rev. Christian Zebley
Mar. 2021–Jun. 2024: Resident pastors, lay members, and guests (preaching rotation)
Sept. 2024-Present: Rev. Jonathan Oh