Wasn't too sure where to post this one but the video has a lot about Japanese Buddhism, Zen and Japan as the place where the American presenter encountered Orthodox Christianity, which he now embraces.
Thank you. I still distinctly remember how Our Lady gave a warning to Sr. Sasagawa just prior to the Pachamama dabacle!
From Totus Tuus page: "Born in 1611 near Nagasaki, Japan, Saint Magdalene of Nagasaki came from a devout Christian family. When she was still a teenager, her parents and siblings were martyred for their faith during the brutal anti-Christian persecutions in Japan. Despite the danger, Magdalene dedicated her life to God. She served as a translator and catechist for the Augustinian Recollect missionaries, taught the faith to children, cared for the poor, and encouraged persecuted Christians. In 1625, she became a Tertiary of the Order of Augustinian Recollects, wearing their habit with pride. In September 1634, at just 23 years old, Magdalene boldly surrendered herself to the authorities, declaring her faith in Jesus Christ. She endured 13 days of horrific torture — suspended upside down in a pit filled with filth and excrement (the dreaded tsurushi method). Even in agony, she remained steadfast. On October 15, 1634, the pit was filled with water, and she drowned — a final act of faithful witness. Her body was burned and ashes scattered so no relics could remain. Pope Saint John Paul II canonized her in 1987. Saint Magdalene of Nagasaki stands as a shining example of youthful courage, unwavering faith, and love for Christ even unto death. In a time of fierce persecution, she chose to be a light in the darkness. St. Magdalene of Nagasaki, pray for us — especially for Christians facing persecution today!"
"History is full of warriors, but few fought a battle like Justo Takayama Ukon, the legendary "Samurai of Christ." Born in 16th-century Japan amid brutal civil wars, Takayama was a powerful daimyo and a master samurai. While his father first converted to Christianity, Ukon embraced the faith with his whole heart—not for power, but for truth and honor. When Toyotomi Hideyoshi launched a fierce persecution against Christians, he gave Ukon a brutal choice: Renounce Christ or lose everything—his title, lands, wealth, and status. Most men would have compromised. But Ukon laid down his sword, walked away from his castle, and chose poverty and exile over betraying his Lord. He fought his greatest battle without ever drawing a blade. In 1614, he was exiled to Manila, Philippines. Weakened by years of suffering and the harsh journey, he died shortly after arriving. The Church honors his death as a "dry martyrdom"— a martyrdom of the heart. He gave up everything for Christ. A true Samurai of Christ. A powerful witness for our time."
From the Art of Osamu Tanimoto page. He is a young Japanese artist living in Milan: "Here is the detail of my recent commissioned work in progress for Chiesa di Carmine in Carrara, Italy. More glazing to come. An attempt to capture the Light that shines from Him and illuminates all things. #WorkInProgress"
https://www.facebook.com/share/r/17riKBbvn7/ Screenshot of the full painting (in progress) from the reel linked above.
