Pope Francis, visiting Japan, denounced an “epidemic” of bullying that torments young people in Japan but also around the world. “We must all unite against this culture of bullying and learn to say ‘Enough!’ “It is an epidemic, and together you can find the best medicine to treat it.” “Bullies are afraid, and they cover Read more
His face weathered from years at sea, kimono-clad Japanese fisherman Masaichi Kawasaki kneels before an altar adorned with images of the Virgin Mary, crossing himself as he softly intones chants handed down through centuries. Kawasaki, 69, is one of a dwindling number of Japan’s “Kakure Kirishitan,” or “Hidden Christians,” descendants of those who preserved their Read more
Despite the difficulties evangelisation in Japan presents, the Catholic Church still finds ways to proclaim the Gospel, says Tokyo’s Archbishop Isao Kikuchi. He says it’s been difficult for the Church to move into mainstream Japanese society, which has faced persecution and genocide since 1549. “In Japanese society, it is difficult to find tangible success in Read more