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Workshop for Newly Appointed Missionaries Explores Japanese Religious Beliefs
Vu Khanh Tuong, SVD
Among the participants were Fr. Alfonsus Afri Dietger, who recently completed his doctoral studies in Rome, and other confreres eager to deepen their understanding of Japanese culture and spirituality.
The workshop opened with participants sharing about their respective mission assignments, providing a meaningful opportunity for mutual encouragement and fellowship. That evening, the first presentation of the workshop was delivered by Fr. Peter Knecht, focusing on the theme: “Japanese Belief in Kami and Buddha.”
Fr. Knecht’s presentation was enriched with photographs and research from the Tōhoku region, offering participants insight into the Japanese religious worldview. He discussed the dual perspective of “this world” and “the other world” in Japanese faith traditions, explored local festivals, ancestral veneration, and the cultural understanding of life and death. His talk aimed to help the missionaries not only understand but also grow in appreciation for the deeply rooted religious feelings of the Japanese people.
The program also included cultural excursions, allowing participants to experience the beauty of the Kyoto area. Highlights included a peaceful walk along the Uji River, sampling of traditional matcha ice cream, and a visit to the iconic Byōdō-in Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Though the cherry blossoms had not yet bloomed, the landscape offered serene views. Participants also learned that the Byōdō-in Temple is depicted on the Japanese 10-yen coin.
On the final day, March 27, the workshop continued with another session after breakfast, followed by a visit to the famous Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, providing deeper exposure to Shintō traditions.
The workshop was not only educational but spiritually enriching, equipping the newly appointed missionaries with cultural sensitivity and theological insight essential for their mission in Japan.
“We pray that the knowledge and experiences gained during this workshop will bear fruit in our missionary work in this vineyard of the Lord,” said Fr. Vu Khanh Tuong, SVD, outgoing chair of the Formation/Education Committee.
