Alabama community prays for missing Auburn student as search continues in Japan
By Ayron Lewallen
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BIRMINGHAM, Alabama (WVTM) — The search continues for missing Auburn student James “Weston” Higginbotham who was last seen five days ago at a train station in Kyoto, Japan.
As his family searches for answers overseas, support is growing back home in Central Alabama, where loved ones, friends and community members gathered Tuesday at Asbury United Methodist Church to pray for his safe return.
With heads bowed and eyes closed, the church sanctuary was filled with prayers for Higginbotham and for the family members desperately waiting. Dozens came together to ask for strength, comfort and hope as the search stretches into another day.
Higginbotham’s grandfather, Robert Holt, said the family is facing obstacles but is deeply grateful for the support pouring in from so many people.
“Try to assure them that they’re not alone—that they have a whole lot of people—and most importantly, they’ve got God,” he said. “It’s his decision on how things go in our daily lives—period. Whatever your beliefs may or may not be, mine is very simple. God is in control, and with that said, ‘God, please.’”
Holt described his grandson as a strong young man who just finished an Ironman triathlon and said the family is doing everything possible to bring him home.
Family friend Clay Farrington described Higginbotham as a smart, kind and respectful athlete. He said the uncertainty has been heartbreaking, but the community is determined to stand beside the Higginbotham family. He still believes there is reason to hope.
“Keith and Nancy and Grayton, we love y’all,” he said. “Weston, if you see this, buddy, love y’all. Can’t wait to see y’all back in Birmingham.”
At the prayer gathering, that hope was at the center of every message. Higginbotham’s family is working to spread word of his disappearance as widely as possible and hopes anyone with information will come forward. They say they are thankful for the support they have received so far and are asking people to continue praying for his safe return.
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