A portrait of St. Paul Miki
St. Paul Miki
1562 – 1597
Feast
February 6 · XVI c.
Patron of
Japan · Jesuit martyrs · Catechists
Order
Priest / Jesuit / Martyr
Japanese Jesuit (1562-1597), son of a samurai, the most prominent native member of the Society of Jesus in Japan; with two other Jesuits, six Franciscans, three Japanese Jesuits in formation, and 17 native lay tertiaries crucified on Nishizaka hill at Nagasaki under Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The 26 Martyrs of Japan canonized 1862 by Pius IX.
Life & Times
Born: 1562 · Died: 1597 · From: Japan.
Patronage
St. Paul Miki is invoked as the patron of japan, jesuit martyrs, catechists. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
“I forgive all who have brought about my death; I beseech them to receive Christian baptism.”— Words from the cross at Nagasaki, February 5, 1597, recorded by Franciscan witnesses
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About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Paul Miki, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.