05/31/2026
In honor of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we are celebrating saints like Saint Paul Miki, the Patron Saint of Japan and one of the first native Japanese Christians whose faith endured even in the face of persecution.
As a Jesuit seminarian and gifted preacher, Paul Miki boldly shared the Gospel at a time when Christianity was outlawed in Japan. In 1597, he and 25 companions were arrested and crucified for their faith. From the cross, Paul continued to preach, stating just before his death “After Christ’s example, I forgive my persecutors. I do not hate them. I ask God to have pity on all, and I hope my blood will fall on my fellow men as a fruitful rain.” His courage and unwavering trust in God helped sustain the Catholic faith in Japan for generations. St. Paul Miki reminds us that even in the most difficult moments, faith, mercy and hope can leave a lasting impact.