Nakatsu, Japan, 11 September 2016 -- As the ageing population of Japan (84 years of life expectancy), also the Catholic parish communities are composed of more elderly faithful. Also today's parish feast shows the changing witness of Salesian mission in Nakatsu St. Joseph community, in the city of 80.000 inhabitants where live only about 200 (mostly elderly) Catholics and five Salesians.
Coming together on Sunday from four nearby parishes is always a feast day. A lively assembly of 45 Catholics from Bungo Takada, Usa and Nakatsu Catholic parishes (San No Cho and Kojo) is composed of majority elderly people with five young couples with their small children. Majority are Japanese, but also one Nigerian family with young migrant workers from Vietnam are already everyday face of the Catholic Church in Kyushu.
Although the 4 SDB strong community was only half present (two Salesian Brothers joined the spiritual retreat), nothing prevented Br. Tojo (83) to organize a wonderful Oratorian games (fishing) and perform high standard harmonica concert with the participation of all. At the end of the day also the Rector Fr. Mickey Muramatsu did not miss his Magic show also today.
Former Salesian orphanage of St. Joseph that was open about 80 years ago, offered Don Bosco education to some 2000 boys. Over the years it took present shape of present social welfare facility for boys and girls in need of special care (two group homes) with 24 residents (6-18 years) and 22 staff (SDB rector is the only Salesian among the staff, the principal 'encho' is lay person).
One mid age Salesian Priest and three senior Salesian Brothers are joyfully witnessing to Jesus in Don Bosco style 24 hours every day. Large green property offers a variety of opportunities for agriculture and any manual work. Parish priest is living about 15 minutes drive near the Nakatsu Castle. Next year this community will celebrate 90 years of its foundation. We wish Salesians in this missionary frontier never grow tired of joyful witnessing!
