St. Paul Miki
Feast 02-06 · Canonized 1862
Patron of
About
Paul Miki was born around 1562 in Japan, the son of a samurai, and was educated by the Jesuits. He joined the Society of Jesus and became a gifted preacher, known for his eloquence and his ability to explain the faith to his countrymen.
In 1597, the ruler Toyotomi Hideyoshi turned against the growing Christian community. Miki and twenty-five companions, including Japanese laypeople, European missionaries, and children, were arrested, mutilated, and marched to Nagasaki to be executed.
On February 5, 1597, they were crucified on a hill overlooking the city. From his cross, Miki preached forgiveness and declared himself a Japanese Christian. The twenty-six martyrs were canonized in 1862, and Miki is venerated as a patron of Japan and of martyrs.
Prayer
St. Paul Miki, who preached forgiveness from your cross at Nagasaki, pray for the Church in Japan and for all who die for the faith, that they may persevere to the end. Amen.