The testimony of Fr. Rodrigo Vélez, CSsR, of the Pedro Donders Province in Argentina, about his life and mission in the international Redemptorist community in Japan.
The Redemptorist international community in Japan officially began on February 23, 2025, in Tokyo. At that time, Fr. Hagiwara was the superior, Fr. Takeshi Inoue, CSsR., the Vice-Provincial Superior, and Fr. Sebastian Ani Dato the vice-rector of the community. Two new members, Fr. Rodrigo Vélez and Fr. Clement Lee (from the Vice-Province of Malaysia-Singapore), joined the new international community on that very same day.
In September 2022, at the 26th General Chapter held in Rome, the mission proposal presented by Japan was approved, along with the proposal to establish a new international community in Japan and revitalize missionary work. Thus, the Redemptorists in Japan have become involved with members of the Asia-Oceania Conference to which they belong, after leaving their former mother province of Canada.
Mission in Japan: Testimony of Fr. Rodrigo Vélez (Pedro Donders Province)
When I arrived in Japan in January of this year, after more than 35 hours of travel, I knew I was not only crossing continents, but also immersing myself in an ancient culture that would challenge me in every way. The Redemptorist community of Hatsudai, in the heart of Tokyo, welcomed me with open arms, as part of this new international missionary project launched by our recent General Chapter.
A country of contrasts and challenges
Japan is a fascinating country. With over 125 million inhabitants, less than 1% identify as Catholic. The predominant religion is a blend of Shintoism, Buddhism, and, in many cases, a modern secularism that is especially pronounced among young people. This reality challenges us deeply as missionaries: how can we proclaim the Gospel in a land where the Christian faith is a minority and, at times, unknown?
Inculturation: learning to serve
Since arriving, I’ve come to understand that acculturation isn’t optional, but essential. I began my Japanese studies in Argentina, but it was here that I fully immersed myself in the language, attending daily classes at the renowned KAI school. Learning Japanese is a demanding path, but also a gateway to the soul of this people.
In addition to the language, I’ve immersed myself in Japanese culture through visits to temples and cultural centers, and by practicing Kendo, a martial art that combines physical discipline and spiritual training. All of this helps me better understand the sensibilities of those around me.
Community life
Our international community is made up of brothers and sisters from Japan, Indonesia, Singapore, and Argentina. We share prayer, meals, and mission. Each day begins at 6:00 a.m. with community prayer, followed by Mass and the fraternal moments we so cherish. Amid our cultural differences, we are united by the same Redemptorist charism and the desire to serve.
A pastoral approach to meeting migrants
Pastoral work in Japan has a multicultural face. In the Diocese of Saitama, I collaborate with the Church of Joso, where we celebrate Masses in Spanish, Portuguese, and English for migrant communities from Peru, Brazil, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and the Philippines. I also participate in the work at St. Ignatius Church in Tokyo, providing spiritual accompaniment to Spanish speakers in conjunction with the Loyola Center.
I am part of the APALA team (Latin American Pastoral Care in Japan), which offers online training and accompanies devotional celebrations from different cultures. This intercultural dimension of the mission is a true treasure.
A mission that challenges and transforms
The mission in Japan is not easy. It requires patience, listening, humility, and a deep trust that God is already working in the hearts of its people. I have also had the grace to visit missionary communities in Mongolia, Singapore, and Indonesia, and in each one I have discovered the richness of a living, creative, and deeply committed Church.
Today more than ever, we need to pray for new missionary vocations. May the Good Shepherd continue to call men and women willing to place their bare feet in his blessed footsteps.
In Christ the Redeemer,
Fr. Rodrigo Vélez, CSsR.