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(82,333 posts)
Sat Apr 13, 2013, 10:29 AM Apr 2013

Catholicism struggles in Japan: More complex than mere secularism

Dr. Jim Asher | April 12, 2013

The reasons for failure of the faith to grow in Japan is actually more complex than mere secularism. The Japanese government lifted persecution in 1873, but mostly because of pressure from the West, particularly the U.S. government, who bluntly told Japan that enlightened nations did not persecute people for religious beliefs.

So although freedom of religion was practiced in Japan, there was a certain disdain for Catholics, because of the past history of governmental censure and no doubt, the fact that the government lifted persecution under pressure, not out of conviction. But Japan had devout examples of Christianity, perhaps most notable in the 20th century was Dr. Takashi Nagai, a brilliant scientist, radiologist, and convert to Catholicism.

On Nov. 23, 1945, Dr. Nagai gave a talk for those killed in the atom bomb attack the previous Aug. 9. “A Song for Nagasaki,” by Fr. Paul Glynn, S.M. relates, “…Nagai knew what to say to bandaged, limping, burn-disfigured and demoralized Catholics who gathered beside the shattered cathedral to assist at the Requiem Mass for their dead.”

He noted the fact that the bomb had been destined for another city but clouds obscured it, so Nagasaki was chosen. Due to mechanical problems, the bomb was dropped very close to the cathedral. He went on, “Is there not a profound relationship between the annhilation of Nagasaki and the end of the war? Was not Nagasaki the chosen victim, the lamb without blemish, slain as a whole burnt offering on an altar of sacrifice, atoning for the sins of all nations during World War II?”

http://www.catholicsun.org/2013/04/12/catholicism-struggles-in-japan-more-complex-that-mere-secularism/

http://www.ignatiusinsight.com/features2009/pglynn_nagasaki_dec09.asp

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