Diego Kisai Holy Roman Catholic Church Date of Birth: 01.01.1533 Country: Japan

1. Diego Kisai: A Sainted Martyr of Faith
2. Early Life and Family
3. Joining the Jesuits
4. Persecution and Arrest
5. Martyrdom
6. Beatification and Sainthood
7. Legacy and Remembrance

Diego Kisai: A Sainted Martyr of Faith

Diego Kisai, a devout follower of the Roman Catholic Church, was a member of the Jesuit order and a revered martyr.

Early Life and Family

Kisai received his primary education within the confines of a Jesuit monastery. Marrying a Japanese convert, he witnessed his son, John, embark on a religious journey at a Jesuit seminary.

Joining the Jesuits

Inspired by his newfound faith, Kisai sought entry into the Jesuit order, appealing to Father Solbi. With a heart full of zeal, he served as a catechist in Osaka.

Persecution and Arrest

In 1587, the tide turned against Christians in Japan. Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the powerful minister, imposed a ban on Christian practices. Kisai, alongside 25 other Catholics, was apprehended and imprisoned. Among the captives were European Franciscan missionaries, a Japanese Jesuit priest named Paul Miki, and numerous lay believers.

Martyrdom

Shortly before his execution, Kisai officially joined the Society of Jesus. On February 5, 1587, he and his fellow prisoners faced crucifixion for their unwavering faith in Christianity.

Beatification and Sainthood

Kisai's steadfastness earned him recognition as a martyr. Pope Urban VII bestowed upon him the honor of beatification in 1627. In 1862, Pope Pius IX canonized Kisai as one of the 26 Martyrs of Nagasaki.

Legacy and Remembrance

Diego Kisai's memory endures as a testament to the resilience of faith in the face of persecution. The Catholic Church commemorates his martyrdom on February 6th, honoring his sacrifice and the unwavering spirit of the early Japanese Christian community.