On this day the Church looks to the Far East, remembering this great saint who evangelised in India, Japan, and other places in that vast region. We remember too the many who have suffered for the Faith there. For more than 200 years, Japanese Catholics survived without priests, or any of the sacraments except baptism. Yet they knew the Lord’s Prayer, the Hail Mary, the Rosary, and the Creed.

As we draw inspiration from their story, we pray that our own faith may be deep and strong enough to withstand opposition. May God bless you this day.