Tokyo, Japan, March 23, 2016 - After living 35 years in Korea, since last February 20, 2016 I’m now starting a new adventure in Tokyo, Japan. According the mutual agreement between the provinces of Korea and Japan, I’m now learning another language and culture here among the Japanese confreres in Chofu formation house. I was sent here in order to share my life, contribute with my priestly ministry in the Salesian province of Japan.
For those who know the past of Korea – Japan historical relationship might be not easy to understand my option. When Europe was suffering the First and Second World War, in Korea our ancestors suffered 35 years the colonial rule of Japan. Although our two countries are located very close to each other, until now is not easy to come together.
Whatever is our social and political history the Salesians in both countries are very closely related and have a great impact on each other. First Salesian missionaries were sent to Korea from Japan in 1954, just few months after the end of the Korean War. Until 1972 Korea delegation was part of the Japan province, but until now there are many contacts between the two nearby provinces.
Especially since last 2002 started the biannual exchange of young Salesian priests and Brothers in their quinqennium period. Every second year their meeting is conducted once in Japan, next time in Korea. Although there are many similar traits in our cultures, we can learn from each other the specific points and enjoy our communion.
Indeed my first inspiration to volunteer for this temporary missionary commitment to Japan was the previous quinquennium meeting at the end of 2014. Knowing the situation of the Japan Church and SDB province, I have understand the need of more young confreres. Moreover the total numbers of Catholics in Japan are really small compared to the whole population. After one year of discernment with our provincial I arrived finally to Tokyo last February 20 and I’m now living in the formation house (Chofu City, Metropolitan area of Tokyo) for the period of 3 years.
In this place, I’m now studying the language and adapt myself to a new culture. It’s like to become again a small baby and start to walk slowly on my own. Indeed now during the Holy Week I’m first learning the Incarnation of Jesus. Thanks to the family spirit in Chofu community I can express myself even beyond the poor language communication level. I’m very grateful to both Provincials of Korea and Japan for this experience of growing anew in my Salesian vocation.
I don’t’ know, what will happen after 3 years. However I fully trust the Holy Spirit who has guided me up to this point in this ongoing adventure. Like the 2016 Strenna of the Rector Major, I’m already living amidst the adventure on my journey.
Dear confreres, please, pray for me and welcome to Chofu community breathing the family spirit!
