Pope Francis Elevates Cardinal Tarcisio Kikuchi: A Missionary Leader from Japan
Pope Francis has ushered in a new era for the Catholic Church by elevating 21 new cardinals, including Archbishop Tarcisio Isao Kikuchi of Tokyo. This noteworthy appointment is not only indicative of the Pope’s commitment to inclusivity within the Church but also highlights the extraordinary devotion found in the global peripheries of Catholicism. After the consistory on December 8, over 20% of cardinal-electors will come from regions far from Rome, underscoring a transformative shift in the Church’s leadership.
A Humble Beginning Rooted in Faith
Born in Miyako, Japan, in 1957, Cardinal-elect Kikuchi grew up in a devout Catholic family. His father, a converted religious catechist, and mother, a kindergarten teacher, planted the seeds of faith and service early in his life. “I was raised by Swiss missionaries,” Kikuchi reminisced during a recent interview at St. Mary’s Cathedral, where he shared his journey toward priesthood and ultimately to becoming a cardinal.
Inspired by the missionaries who guided him in his formative years, Kikuchi sought to emulate their service-oriented spirit. He joined the Society of the Divine Word order, which focuses on evangelization, particularly in Asia. After his ordination in 1986, he was sent to Ghana, becoming the first Japanese priest to serve as a missionary in Africa.
Service in Africa: A Formative Experience
Kikuchi spent eight years in a remote area of Ghana, navigating life without electricity or reliable water. “It was a wonderful time of my life,” he reflected, having taken charge of over 20 outstations in a country where only 10% of the population identifies as Catholic. His experiences in Africa nurtured his creativity and fearlessness in ministry, a blend that would define his later work.
After returning to Japan, Kikuchi became involved with Caritas, the Catholic aid organization, dedicating himself to humanitarian efforts. He volunteered during the Rwandan refugee crisis and eventually became the executive director of Caritas Japan, illustrating his commitment to the Church’s social mission.
Humanitarian Leadership and Global Impact
Pope Francis recognized Kikuchi’s extensive work and appointed him bishop of Niigata in 2004. Subsequently, he served as president of Caritas Japan from 2007 to 2022 and as regional leader of Caritas Asia from 2011 to 2019. His tenure was defined by a proactive response to Japan’s immense need for aid following the devastating 2011 tsunami.
“Through Caritas, we proclaim the Good News, witnessing Jesus Christ,” said Kikuchi, emphasizing the organization’s vital role in bridging gaps between faith and societal needs. His leadership has expanded Caritas Japan’s influence, helping it become a staple in disaster response and community support.
A Diverse and Inclusive Church
Kikuchi’s appointment as cardinal comes at a time when Japan is increasingly becoming a multicultural society, facing the challenges and opportunities this diversity brings. He has expressed a pressing need for the Church to welcome foreign-born Catholics as Japan sees a rise in its expatriate population.
“In many societies, there is a harsh response to migrants, but without migrants, we cannot survive!” Kikuchi argued passionately. He has positioned inclusivity at the forefront of his leadership, recognizing the potential for strengthened community through acceptance.
Addressing Global Issues: Nuclear Disarmament
As the world prepares to mark the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Kikuchi remains vocal about the Catholic Church’s stance against nuclear weapons. He recalled Pope John Paul II’s powerful declarations and expressed concern about military escalations in the region, particularly in light of the ongoing tensions with China and North Korea.
Kikuchi is committed to leveraging the Church’s influence in advocating for peace, having seen firsthand the devastation wrought by nuclear arms. Recently, the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Nihon Hidankyo, a grassroots organization of atomic-bomb survivors, further emphasizing this cause. “These governments must know they can’t use nuclear weapons or you destroy the target, the environment, and yourself,” Kikuchi asserted.
The Future of the Church
With Kikuchi’s elevation to the College of Cardinals, observers note the potential shift in the Church’s focus toward regions that have long been considered peripheries. “Global peripheries are no longer Africa or Asia for the Church. The peripheries are moving to Europe,” he noted, highlighting the declining attendance and vocations in traditionally strong areas.
Kikuchi’s commitment to faith, charity, and inclusiveness positions him as a significant figure in the future landscape of the Catholic Church. As he prepares for his new role, his experiences, challenges, and victories exemplify a model of Church leadership that resonates with the universal call to serve.
Pope Francis’ choice of Kikuchi is not merely an elevation; it symbolizes the Church’s broader commitment to embrace diverse voices, ensuring that leadership reflects the global community it serves. His mission is one of hope and transformation, fostering a spirit of inclusiveness that can revitalize the Church at this pivotal juncture.
As the Church looks forward to a bright future, the work of leaders like Cardinal-elect Tarcisio Kikuchi serves as a reminder: the beauty of faith lies not just in tradition but in its capacity to evolve and embrace the world’s richness.
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