In our worship space this season, we will honor the 26 Christian Martyrs by representing each of them with a hanging yukata.  The yukata on the cross represents the crucified Christ and the three streams of fabric the Holy Trinity.  We are reminded of Christ's suffering on the cross for us, as well as of His presence with all who suffer, anywhere and at any time. 

 

[Those sharing their yukata for display are:  Kumiko Sakata,  Keiko Nakata,  Chiyoko Chida,  Shigeko Shibata, Debbi Grundman, Naomi Goto.  Leo & Naomi Goto and Debbi Grundman arranged their presentation.]

FLOATING SAINTS - 26 Martyrs of Nagasaki

Sacramento Japanese United Methodist Church

 

 

More than four hundred years ago in February 1597, Hideyoshi, the supreme military ruler of Japan banned Christianity and ordered the execution of 24 Christians (six Franciscan missionaries from Spain and Portugal and 18 Japanese Christians).  They were arrested in Kyoto and led to Nagasaki on foot. Thousands who watched the procession were converted to Christianity because of their courage and faith in God. Two Christians came forward to offer water and were arrested making their number 26.

They were the first Christians to be crucified although thousands who refused to renounce their faith were soon to follow.

 

In 1862, Pope Pius the Ninth canonized these 26 martyrs as saints of the Church.

You can find a monument depicting the crucifixion in the Vatican and also on the hill outside Nagasaki.