The workshop featured three presentations highlighting key areas of missionary life. Fr. Mere Stefanus spoke on the SVD’s educational apostolate, particularly its presence in institutions such as Nanzan University. He emphasized that education remains a vital missionary contribution to Japanese society and encouraged participants to prepare themselves for this ministry with a clear sense of vocation.

Fr. Hayon Ardy reflected on parish ministry, pointing out current challenges facing the Church in Japan, including an aging and declining Catholic population, limited personnel, and the growing presence of foreign faithful. He highlighted the need for pastoral creativity—strengthening community life, fostering interaction between clergy and laity, promoting youth ministry, and developing outreach to migrants through liturgy, catechesis, and shared activities. He also stressed the importance of building relationships with the local community in the spirit of a synodal Church.

Fr. Provincial Santiago provided an overview of the Japan Province, including its parishes, schools, formation programs, and missionary assignments. Drawing from his own experience, he encouraged the participants to embrace challenges and to engage actively in their respective ministries.

The workshop offered a valuable space for mutual encouragement and deeper understanding of the missionary context in Japan. Participants strengthened their fraternal bonds while reflecting on their shared mission. There is hope that more confreres will take part in future workshops, continuing to build a strong and responsive missionary presence in the country.