Kyushu, Japan – 8 June 2025, Solemnity of Pentecost
Bathed in the light and grace of Pentecost Sunday, the Canossian Family in Japan rejoiced in a moment of profound spiritual joy as six new members were welcomed into the Canossian Lay Association. During a simple yet deeply moving celebration, the six women—all of Filipino origin and long-time residents of the Kyushu region—made their public Promises, marking the culmination of a meaningful journey of faith and discernment.
Their vocation took root years ago, sparked by a providential encounter with Sister Aida Cabalag, a Filipino Canossian whose presence left an enduring impact on the local community. It was she who, with quiet wisdom and gentle accompaniment, sowed in their hearts the desire to live the spirituality of St. Magdalene of Canossa as consecrated lay women in the world.
Though Sister Aida returned to the Father’s house two years ago, the imprint of her spiritual guidance lives on in these women, who have embraced the Canossian charism as a way of life. Following her passing, their formation journey continued with care and dedication under the guidance of the National Coordinator, Ms. Shibata, who accompanied them faithfully to the day of their solemn entry into the Canossian Lay Family.
The newly promised Lay Canossians will now join the Kyushu group, participating in monthly local gatherings as well as a bi-monthly English-language meeting, which provides a treasured space for spiritual growth and communal sharing.
Kyushu, the third-largest island in the Japanese archipelago, is a land of breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Renowned for its volcanic landscapes, healing hot springs (onsen), lush green hills, and endless rice paddies, the region offers an ideal setting for those seeking silence, contemplation, and communion with creation. Cities such as Nagasaki—with its Christian legacy marked by martyrdom and enduring hope—and Kumamoto, home to its majestic castle and verdant parks, speak eloquently of the deep interplay between spirituality, history, and culture. Scattered across the region are places of pilgrimage and secluded mountain shrines, inviting pilgrims to rediscover the sacred in the ordinary rhythms of daily life.
We invite the entire Canossian Family, in Japan and across the world, to unite in prayer and thanksgiving to the Lord for the gift of these new lay vocations.
May the Holy Spirit, who descended so abundantly on this Pentecost, continue to breathe powerfully into the hearts of all those called to serve with love in the charism of St. Magdalene of Canossa.
