Commemoration February 5: Martyrs of Japan

Commemoration

February 5

Martyrs of Japan, d. 1597

  

Reflection

In a period of only two short years, Francis Xavier, a Jesuit and one of the greatest missionaries in the history of Church, planted the seeds of Christianity in Japan that would flourish within the next generation. He had learned the language and had written a catechism in the native tongue, and had come to recognize the “noble quality of the Japanese people, their intelligence, and the excellence of their civilization.” Thus Xavier demonstrated what is perhaps the most important characteristic of a missionary: genuine love and respect for the people.

In contrast, the methods of those who followed Xavier, including mass conversions, were highly suspect by the native Buddists and Shintoists. The case for the legitimacy of the new religion was further challenged when a shipwrecked Spanish captain intimated that the missionary activity of the Franciscans was preparing for a conquest by Spain.

Jealousy, suspicion, and fear of invasion led to intense persecution. On February 5, 1597, 26 Christians were killed, including six European Franciscans, the rest being Japanese, among them three young boys. Their deaths were crucifixion style, as they were hung on crosses and run through with spears. More than 130 churches were burned in the year that followed, and by 1630, Christianity was run underground.

Prayer

God of love, Thank you for the lives and witness of those who, at great pains and great risk to themselves, plant and nourish seeds of faith. Give us that same zeal to spread the good news of your love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.