>Japanese Version

Brother Sun, Sister Moon

“Year of Saint Francis of Assisi”(January 10, 2026-January 10, 2027),
proclaimed by Pope Leo XIV
Thoughts on commemorating the 800th anniversary of the death of Saint Francis

A bronze statue of Saint Francis
beside the Monastery of San Damiano (Italy)

Returning his clothes back to his father, Francis declared: “I’m not your son anymore. What is born of flesh is flesh, what is born of spirit is spirit. Now, I’m born again.”  That is a scene from the film “Brother Sun, Sister Moon”, which depicts the early life of Saint Francis of Assisi. I imagine that those familiar with the life of Saint Francis would point out inaccuracies in the film. As someone who simply enjoys the film, I think the work reflects the ideals and aspirations of its creators.

As someone seeking to learn about Saint Francis, I have read a few biographies of him.  I recently had the opportunity to reread “The First Life of Saint Francis”, by Thomas of Celeno. Francis, having renounced his possessions, cared for lepers and restored church buildings. Guided by the Holy Spirit, Francis was deeply moved by the words of Jesus Christ, drawn ever closer to the Lord, and discovered what was truly valuable in life. His faith-life resonated with many people and sparked a spiritual renewal within the Church. That is how the spiritual journey of Saint Francis comes across to me.

Several years ago, I read “The Saint and the Sultan” (published in 2009) with great interest. This book recounts the encounter between Francis and the leader of the Islamic camp, which took place in 1219 while the Crusaders were besieging the Islamic city of Damietta in Egypt. I have heard directly from the book’s author, Catholic newspaper reporter Paul Moses, comment on this encounter in the following manner: “I think one has to be careful about taking events from the distant past and applying them to the present, but I do see a lot of value in holding up Sultan al-Kamil as a model for Muslims and Francis for Christians. We know from the historical evidence that they managed to be courteousand friendly under terrible conditions.

… If one of our greatest and most loved saints was able to befriend his supposed enemy during wartime, can’t we get along a little better with Muslims today?” (commonwealmagazine.org). The author’s words ring loud as we pray for the end of the Middle East War.

At the “Assisi Summit of Religious Leaders” held on October 27, 1986, leaders of Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, and Buddhism gathered together to pray for peace and declared that violence is incompatible with the true spirit of religion. Saint John Paul II proposed the convening of this gathering, which is regarded as a legacy of the meeting between the saint and the sultan.

Two years before his death, Francis composed the “Canticle of the Sun”. On October 3, 1226, laid naked on the ground just as he had wished, he breathed his last. He was 44 or 45 years old. His death reenacts the scene in which he returned his clothes to his father and reminds us of the words of Job: “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return there. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord” (1:21).

The first Pope who chose the name Francis was deeply influenced by his namesake. In 2015, Pope Francis published “Laudato Si’” (Praise Be to You), which addresses environmental crises and social issues in an integrated manner; in 2020, “Fratelli Tutti” (All Brothers), which outlines a practical path toward building a fraternal world.

During the year of Saint Francis, I would like to reread those two encyclicals of Pope Francis, legacy passed down to him from Saint Francis, as well as other biographies of the saint, and visit Franciscan churches.

Bishop Edgar Gacutan

• Letter of Pope Leo XIV to Franciscan Family [Link]
• Decree on Jubillee Year [Link]

The Canticle of the Sun

 

Most High, all-powerful, good Lord,

Yours are the praises, the glory,

the honor, and all blessings.

 

To You alone, Most High, do they belong,

and no man is worthy to mention Your name.

 

Praised be You, my Lord, with all your creatures;

especially Brother Sun, who is the day,

and through whom You give us light.

 

And he is beautiful and radiant with great splendor,

and bears a likeness to You, Most High One.

 

Praised be You, my Lord,

through Sister Moon and the stars;

in heaven You formed them clear

and precious and beautiful.

 

Praised be You, my Lord, through Brother Wind,

and through the air, cloudy and serene,

and every kind of weather through which You give sustenance to Your creatures.

 

Praised be You, my Lord, through Sister Water,

which is very useful and humble

and precious and chaste.

 

Praised be You, my Lord, through Brother Fire,

through whom You light the night;

and he is beautiful and playful and robust and strong.

Praised be You, my Lord, through Sister Mother Earth,

who sustains us and governs us and who produces

varied fruits with colored flowers and herbs.

 

Praised be You, my Lord,

through those who give pardon for Your love,

and bear infirmity and tribulation.

 

Blessed are those who endure in peace

for by You, Most High, they shall be crowned.

 

Praised be You, my Lord,

through our Sister Bodily Death,

from whom no living man can escape.

 

Woe to those who die in mortal sin.

 

Blessed are those whom death will find

in Your most holy will,

for the second death shall do them no harm.

 

Praise and bless my Lord,

and give Him thanks,

and serve Him with great humility. Amen.

 

Marking 15 Years Since the Great East Japan Earthquake

Symposium: “15 Years After the Great East Japan Earthquake
What Has Become Visible Through This Experience”
Co-hosted by the Catholic Diocese of Sendai and Caritas Japan

On the 15th anniversary of the March 11 disaster, a symposium and memorial Mass were held at Sendai Cathedral, attended by about 150 people, including survivors and long-time volunteers. Three speakers reflected on Catholic disaster response. Mr. Sonobe described how “Team Senen” evolved from temporary housing support to fostering lasting community ties, where people now relate as friends and share a common space of belonging. Mr. Fukahori highlighted the Caritas Ofunato Base, emphasizing trust built through close ties with the local church and community, where volunteers acted as neighbors rather than outsiders.

Bishop Narui stressed that the Church’s mission differs from typical aid organizations by remaining long -term in affected areas, living alongside survivors, and embodying ongoing service. He noted current challenges, such as fewer volunteers and the need for deeper community integration. Overall, the symposium underscored solidarity, sustained presence, and living together as essential to meaningful disaster response.

Sr. Masako Hasegawa,
Diocesan Public Relations Committee Member

3.11 Great East Japan Earthquake Memorial Mass for the Victims and a Prayer for Reconstruction
~ Together Toward Recovery ~

About 150 people gathered at the Sendai Cathedral, to commemorate the victims of the Great East Japan Earthquake and pray for recovery. As the Mass began, a bell rang at 2:46 p.m., marking the moment of the earthquake, followed by silent prayer. Bishop Edgar Gacutan presided, joined by Bishop Daisuke Narui, Bishop Emeritus Tetsuo Hiraga, and other clergy.

In his homily, Bishop Narui reflected on the past 15 years, marked by global crises such as the pandemic, wars, and natural disasters. He emphasized that while unexpected events continue to occur, people must not become indifferent. Instead, acts of compassion and solidarityﾑlike those shown after 3.11ﾑshould be shared and sustained to transform society.

Prayers were offered for the deceased, the missing, evacuees from Fukushima, and all those suffering from disasters, as well as for world peace. The Mass concluded with the hymn”Light of Hope,” followed by warm reunions among participants.

Sr. Masako Hasegawa,
Diocesan Public Relations Committee Member

Chrism Mass

Renewal of priestly vows / Consecration and blessing of the Chrism

Despite forecasts of rain in Sendai, the weather improved, allowing more than 200 faithful to gather at the Sendai Diocese Cathedral for the Chrism Mass. Participants came from across the region, including distant parishes.

The Mass began with a solemn procession led by clergy and bishops, including Bishop Edgar Gacutan. In the Liturgy of the Word, readings from Isaiah, Revelation, and Luke 4:16-21 were proclaimed. In his homily,

Bishop Gacutan emphasized two central elements:  the renewal of priestly promises and the blessing of the holy oils.

The priests renewed their vows by answering “I do” to the bishop’s questions, reaffirming their commitment to Christ and their ministry. The congregation joined in prayer for the clergy.

The Oil of the Sick and Oil of Catechumens were blessed, and the Sacred Chrism was consecrated. Quoting Pope Francis, the bishop highlighted the need for missionaries captivated by Christ. The Mass concluded with joy, blessing, and distribution of the oils.

Sr. Masako Hasegawa,
Diocesan Public Relations Committee Member

 

DISTRICT NEWS

District 1

Aomori Shimokita Bloc /
Namiuchi Church

Lenten Reflection

Amid heavy winter snowfall in Aomori, Lenten talks and Eucharistic Adoration were held at Honcho and Namiuchi Churches under Fr. Lee Seok. Sr. Maria Noel  Osanai Makiko shared her vocation and the mission of the Sisters of the Assumption,emphasizing hope, prayer, and community. Participants reflected on gratitude, unity, and simple acts like smiling. The gatherings deepened faith and connection, leading the community through Holy Week to Easter with renewed hope and thanksgiving.

Dai  Matsuda (Namiuchi Church)

Sanpachi Bloc /
Hachinohe Shiocho Church & Same-machi Church

Joint Lenten Retreat Held

A joint Lenten retreat for Hachinohe Shiocho and Same-machi Churches was held on March 28-29, 2026, led by Fr. Akira Takayama from the Archdiocese of Osaka-Takamatsu. Centered on”Encountering the Risen Christ: Living Each One’s Calling,” the retreat included prayer, music, reflection exercises, and meditation on the Stations of the Cross. Participants experienced it as a grace-filled time to reconnect with God, emphasizing personal vocation, sincerity, and God’s loving presence in daily life.

Tomohiro Makiyama (Hachinohe Shiocho Church)

District 4

Sendai West Bloc /
Nishi-Sendai Church

60th Anniversary of the Dedication of Catholic Nishi-Sendai Church: Commemorative Mass and Celebration

Nishi-Sendai Church, originally founded in 1908 and relocated in 1966, celebrated the 60th anniversary of its dedication with a commemorative Mass on March 15,2026, led by Bishop Edgar Gacutan. The celebration was marked by joy, including a baptism, and followed by a warm gathering where parishioners shared memories of the church’s vibrant past. Despite declining attendance over the years, the event highlighted the community’s enduring love for the church and its commitment to nurturing close relationships and a strong sense of unity.

Akiko Takayama (Nishi-Sendai Church)

District 5

Nakadori minami Bloc /
Koriyama Church

A New Place for Faith and Fellowship
Completion of the New Rectory and Parish Hall of Koriyama Church

Koriyama Church, rooted in missionary efforts since 1886, has completed a new priory and parish hall following years of planning after aging facilities and earthquake damage. Finished in December, the 160 million building includes a large meeting hall, kitchen, offices, and a priest’s residence. Designed with community needs in mind, it supports worship, gatherings, and multicultural fellowship. Located centrally in Fukushima, it is expected to serve wider diocesan activities. The project reflects the faith, cooperation, and hope of the parish, continuing its 140-year legacy of mission and community.

Masaru Sato (Koriyama Church)

Nakadori kita Bloc /
Nodamachi Church

Visita Iglesia – A Pilgrimage of Prayer for the Lenten Season

On February 23, what began as a simple plan to observe a Filipino Lenten tradition became a meaningful journey of faith, reminding participants of their unity as one Church family.

Organized by Nodamachi Catholic Church under Fr. Antonio Matias, the “Visita Iglesia” gathered 50 participants of different nationalities, marking its first introduction to a parish in the Sendai Diocese.

In the Philippines, this tradition involves visiting churches on Holy Thursday while praying and reflecting on Christ’s Passion. In Japan, due to distance and work schedules, participants adapted by visiting seven churches by bus on a public holiday, while keeping the same spirit of prayer.

For many, especially Japanese participants, it was their first time visiting these churches. The experience highlighted the quiet beauty and history of each place, especially Tatamiyacho Church. Equally memorable was the warm hospitality shown-heated churches, beautiful stained glass, and Filipino food like “pan de coco” and “sopas,” which brought comfort and a sense of home.

The Tagalog Mass at Ipponsugi Church became the spiritual center, emphasizing prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Blending Filipino tradition with Japanese hospitality, the pilgrimage became a shared expression of faith, offering moments of grace and reminding migrants that they are not alone.

 

Clarita R. Sanchez, Sendai Diocese Lay Missionary

 

PARISHIONER’S REFLECTION

Attending the 10th Public Lecture of the Tohoku Kirishitan Research Society
“Got Jan and His Letters: From the Hotosho to Jesuit Reports”

A public lecture held on February 21, 2026, revisited the faith of early Japanese Christians, focusing on Got Jan, a 17th-century Christian lord. Organized by the Tohoku Kirishitan Research Society, the event gathered about 40 participants in person and others online. Speaker Koichi Abiko examined historical records, especially letters, to clarify Jan’s life amid ongoing scholarly debate.

Reliable sources show Jan served Date Masamune and played a key role in the Keich Embassy to Europe.

Discussions also explored preserved documents, his mysterious disappearance, and the persecution of Christians in the Sendai domain. Despite uncertainties about his identity, Jan’s influence and faith remain evident.

The lecture highlighted the enduring witness of early believers who risked their lives, offering participants a meaningful opportunity to reflect on their own faith today.

Kaoru Iijima (Ipponsugi Church)