[Nyororin]

I think that the most common Christians in Japan are actually of the Mormon/Jehovah`s Witness type. It has to do with actual mission activities. Other types of Christianity don`t seem to share the strong desire to get out there and recruit ("save"?) people.
I am also going to agree that it is usually more because of a desire to join a social group and to receive social support rather than a deep interest or belief in the teachings. Japanese attitudes toward religion in general are a lot looser than those in traditionally Christian countries, so it seems to me that even if they "convert" the level of seriousness is lower in most cases.

Anyway, I really don`t think that the numbers are really rising. But they could probably double and you wouldn`t notice as they`re so low to begin with - especially if you keep in mind that many of the missionary groups allow you to convert in a 30 minute session standing in your genkan. I wonder how many "converts" actually follow up and attend any church or gatherings.

But missionaries do make great cookies.
Excellent cookies.
I`m always really nice to them while expressing that I`m not really interested... And they always give me cookies.

Tons of cookies. For weeks on end.