The Legacy of Tsukiji Church: Celebrating 150 Years of Catholic Heritage in Tokyo
On June 30, Tsukiji Church, a beacon of Catholic heritage in Tokyo, marked its 150th anniversary with a heartwarming Thanksgiving Mass officiated by Archbishop Isao Kikuchi.
By Mark Saludes, LiCAS News
Also known as the Old Cathedral of St. Joseph, Tsukiji Church holds the distinction of being the first Catholic church established in Tokyo, Japan. Founded in November 1874 by the Paris Foreign Missions Society, a Roman Catholic missionary organization, it originally served as the cathedral for the bishop of Tokyo and symbolized the seat of the Apostolic Vicariate of Northern Japan.
After the Archdiocese of Tokyo was established in 1891, Tsukiji Church functioned as the cathedral until 1920, when the cathedral status was transferred to Sekiguchi Church (St. Mary’s Cathedral). Despite being destroyed in the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, the church was rebuilt in 1927 and recognized as one of Tokyo’s historical buildings on June 1, 1999.
Archbishop Kikuchi, in his homily, shed light on the challenges faced by early missionaries and faithful members during a time when practicing Christianity was a struggle. He emphasized the foundation of hope and collaboration between foreign missionaries and Japanese believers that paved the way for the church’s establishment.
Reflecting on the Catholic Church’s current hurdles, Archbishop Kikuchi addressed issues such as a declining population and an aging society in Japan. Despite these challenges, he urged the faithful to approach the future with a positive attitude, drawing inspiration from the courageous missionaries of the past who persisted in spreading Christianity despite persecution.
As the world grapples with conflicts and violence, Archbishop Kikuchi implored the Catholic community to stand united in solidarity and act as a beacon of hope in a tumultuous world. He encouraged them to embrace the presence of the Lord and move forward with fortitude, illuminating their path with the light of faith.
This article was originally published on LiCAS News. All rights reserved. Unauthorized republication by third parties is not permitted.
