Japan is a country that has four distinct seasons. Based upon the seasons
there are a number of festivals that are held throughout the year. The seasons
represent not only climate changes but also the season's of human life.
Christianity in Japan has a history of over 400 years since it was introduced
to Japan beginning with the missionary work of Saint Francisco Xaxier in
1545. A number of traditional events or festivals unique to Japanese culture
have been incorporated into the church calendar besides the holidays of
Easter and Christmas. In this home page, Japan's seasonal events will be
introduced as well as how they are celebrated in the church.
The New Year to Japanese is the year's most important event. On New Year's Eve, Dec. 31, it is a custom to eat soba (buckwheat) noodles in hopes of living a long life. Also at temples across Japan's bells are rung at midnight to welcome the new year.
New Year's Day also known as "Ganjitsu" or "Gantan"
in Japanese and Jan 1st, 2nd, and 3rd are called "San-ga-nichi"
in Japanese meaning the three days and are the traditional days for celebrating
the new year. During these three days almost all shops and business are
closed to allow people to spend time with their families. At church too,
New Year's day is celebrated with a morning mass in order to give thanks
to god.
Jan 15th is Adult's day. On this day throughout Japan, 20 year olds are recognized by society as adults. At church no special event is held on this day but this event is marked every year on the Sunday nearest Jan 15th with a special blessing for these new adults.
In Japan, April marks the beginning of the new fiscal year for both the
public and private sector. For example, schools hold their graduation ceremonies
in March and the school entrance ceremony is held in April. Also most companies
have their new employees start work in April.Ê
Early April is also the season for viewing cherry blossoms. As the cherry
blossom come into full bloom, consequently the new students and new company
employees are easily recognized wearing in their brand-new uniforms.
Also at church, Sunday school classes and student group begin again for
the entire year.
Mother's Day started in America in 1914, whereas in Japan MotherÕs Day recognition began after the 2nd World War. At Church too, on the second Sunday of May, Mother's are given a special blessing at the end of Mass.
Japanese summers are extremely hot and humid. To avoid the daytime heat,
several events such as fireworks are held in evening. This custom began
several hundred years ago and continues until the present.
At Yurigaoka Church in August, an evening event is held for the parishioners
where they can relax and feel at home.
On this day Society recognizes and gives thanks to the elderly. Throughout
the world Japan has the longest life expectancy. It is not clear at what
age a person becomes a senior citizen. Within Yurigaoka Church, the elderly
are considered those of 70 or older and on this day they are anointed with
oil for good health and a continued long life.
For children of ages: 3, 5, and 7, parents bring their children to Shinto
Shrines to pray for their continued growth and good health. More specifically
this event is held for girls of 3 and 7 years old and boys of 5 years of
age.
Since Christians do not attend the events at the shrine, this event is commemorated
at the Church on Sunday nearest Nov. 15th. On this Sunday the children are
especially dressed up in Kimono, Japanese traditional garment, and receive
a blessing during mass.Ê