Blessed Justo Takayama

When Christianity was brought to Japan in the late 1500s by Jesuit missionaries, Justo Takayama and his family converted and were baptized. Takayama, a nobleman, became a samurai warrior and a daimyo (governor). During fierce anti-Christian persecution, Takayama lost his position and lands, and was exiled to the Philippines with his wife and children. Despite his sufferings, he remained faithful and humble, and even converted many others to Christianity.Feast Day: February 3Patronage: Japanese Immigrants, Persecuted Christians