CAN is a “permission giving” network that empowers people to use their gifts and abilities in positive ways. CAN is an “open” network with no official membership. We have a flat organizational structure that enables us to respond rapidly to new opportunities and challenges. CAN is a non-profit organized under TEAM Japan.
CAN’s Vision
The vision of CAN is to connect, equip, and encourage creative individuals to become influential culture shapers who impact Japan (and the world) for Christ. We invest in people! CAN moves the vision forward through several projects (see below) and by cooperating with individuals, churches and other groups that share our vision.
Director: Paul Nethercott
Paul and his wife Nancy live in Japan and are members of a mission called TEAM. They love music, people, Japan and have a vision for building up the church in Japan through the arts.
Core Values
CAN has four projects
“Film As Mission To the Mainstream”
A visionary group of filmmakers has a vision to impact the culture of Japan through redemptive films. This is an innovative approach to film based outreach that puts the emphasis on producing compelling films with excellent production values that reach out to the vast majority of Japanese who are not part of a local church.
Alleluia! Seminars
Nancy Nethercott and our Japanese staff hold workshops for local churches in Japan and provide worship related resources.
“CAN Open Mic“
Artists get together, participate, encourage each other, and build community. Held in several times/year in Tokyo and Sendai. We publicize the open mics using our CAN Community on mixi (a popular Japanese social networking site) as well as on facebook. Our primary venue in Tokyo is SonRise Cafe.
AiR (Artist-in-Residence)
The CAN AiR program offers the opportunity for artists to live out their faith and practice their craft while living in Japan. This is a unique opportunity that provides a great deal of freedom to mature people who have a clear vision. There are many options, including studio work, performing in mainstream &/or church settings, or studying art at a school in Tokyo. Applicants must be familiar with Japan, independent, self-motivated, and very dependable.
To inquire about AiR use the contact form on this site. AiR positions are very limited. Great references, a positive attitude, dependability, and a heart for sharing the gospel with Japanese are all essential. Applicants who aren’t Japanese nationals will need to apply to a mission and raise support. Minimum length is one year.
Advisory Board
Leadership & Organization