The Salesians in Japan marked 100 years since their arrival in the country with a solemn Mass at Tokyo Cathedral on Feb. 8, drawing clergy, religious, and lay faithful despite heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures.
The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Cardinal Tarcisio Isao Kikuchi of Tokyo, and concelebrated by Bishop Mario Michiaki Yamanouchi and Bishop Andrea Lembo.
Also present were Fr. William Matthews, regional councilor for East Asia-Oceania; Fr. Domingos Leong, provincial of China; and Fr. Marcello Baek, provincial of Korea, along with Salesians from across the region.
Despite the harsh weather, the cathedral was filled with members of the Salesian Family, lay faithful, and young people, creating an atmosphere marked by prayer, gratitude, remembrance, and hope.
Before the Mass, students from Salesian schools presented creative performances recalling the beginnings of the Salesian mission in Japan, according to a report by Agenzia Info Salesiana.
These included a short theatrical presentation on the life of Fr. Vincenzo Cimatti and a symbolic dance inspired by the sea voyage of the first missionaries.
A letter written by Cimatti describing the circumstances of the Salesians’ arrival in Japan a century ago was read by members of the Salesian Cooperators.
In his homily, Bishop Yamanouchi called on the assembly to “revive the legacy of these hundred years in the present,” urging the Salesian Family to see its history not as a closed chapter but as a living mission that demands renewed responsibility in today’s world.
The liturgy was accompanied by joint choirs from the Sisters of Caritas of Jesus and the Salesian Sisters, with music provided by the Himonya Church Band. A handbell performance by students of the Salesian Middle School in Kodaira led the congregation in a reflective remembrance of the Salesian journey in Japan.
At the end of the Mass, Fr. Atsushi Hamasaki, provincial of Japan, offered words of thanks, followed by a message from Fr. Matthews on behalf of the Rector Major.
Four young representatives then shared a message expressing their hopes and commitment for the next 100 years of the Salesian mission, which was warmly received by the assembly.
The celebration concluded with the centennial chant, “Yume-wo-Tsunaide: Weaving Dreams,” bringing the commemorative Eucharistic celebration to a close.
The centenary marks 100 years since the arrival of the first nine Salesian missionaries led by Cimatti. Organizers described the milestone as a moment of gratitude and renewed commitment, reaffirming that the future of the Salesian mission in Japan rests on the shared responsibility of the entire Salesian Family.
The centenary year will conclude in October with the visit of Fr. Fabio Attard, rector major of the Salesians. As the anniversary year continues, the Salesian Family in Japan has expressed hope for the future, committing to carry forward Don Bosco’s dream among new generations.
