The “Hidden Christians” of Japan

Last updated on: April 17, 2015 at 6:00 am by Alicia de los Reyes

The “Hidden Christians” of Japan 2015-04-07T12:21:02-08:00 Alicia de los Reyes

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Tokugawas going to war, c/o Sebastian Bertrand

Independent Catholic News reported that Pope Francis commemorated the Hidden Christians, a group of Christians forced to practice in secret in Japan in the 1600s.

The Hidden Christians, also known as Kakure Kirishitan, converted to Christianity in the 16th century. After the Tokugawa shogunate, the feudal military government at the time, banned Catholicism in 1614, many were martyred while others remained hidden, passing on the faith to their children for over two centuries. Biblical phrases, prayers and devotions were passed on in secret even while being hunted by the government.

The Pope in particular celebrated Blessed Peter Kibe (a “Blessed” is on his or her way to becoming “Saint”), a Jesuit who was martyred in Japan in 1639.

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