By Fr. Peter Muramatsu, SDB

Oita, Japan, 23 December 2015 - On the occasion of a birthday of His Majesty the Emperor, the "St.Joseph Dormitory' or 'Boys and Girls Home' social welfare Salesian facility located in Nakatsu (Oita Prefecture) received Imperial Donation. cfr. http://www.pref.oita.jp/site/chiji-tsushin/20151218-1.html

Every year on this occasion (and also a National holiday) some outstanding social welfare institution are selected as recipients of this prestigious donation. The Emperor (since 1989 Emperor Akihito, born on 23rd Dec, 1933) is the head of the Imperial family and is the ceremonial head of state of Japan's system of constitutional monarchy.

The Salesian community of Nakatsu - Nagasoe (Annuario 2015, vol. II - GIA 6) was founded in 1947 as a Boys Town for the youth in need. There are 9 Salesians (3 Salesian Brothers and 6 Priest) in this community serving the St. Joseph's Boys and Girls Home, three parishes and Caritas Sister Chaplaincy in Makino). Its rector Fr. Muramatsu Petro Yasutaka (aka Miki) is also known as the Gospel magician. About 25 youth in need are cared by the Salesian in Nakatsu.

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