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Feast Day: November 18
Death: November 1, 18
Blessed Cosmas Takeya Sozaburo, also known as Blessed Cosmas Takeya, was a layman and a devoted member of the Confraternity of the Holy Rosary in the archdiocese of Nagasaki, Japan. He was born in Korea, but little is known about his early life and background.
Cosmas Takeya was married to a woman named Blessed Agnes Takeya, and they were blessed with a son named Franciscus Takeya. As a faithful Catholic family, they lived their lives as an example of devotion and love for their faith.
During the time of persecution against Christians in Japan, Cosmas Takeya bravely and openly embraced his Catholic faith, despite knowing the risks involved. He refused to renounce his beliefs, even when faced with intense pressure from authorities to do so.
On November 18, 1619, Cosmas Takeya was martyred for his faith. He was burned alive before a gathering of approximately 20,000 people at Nishizaka in Nagasaki, Japan. His brutal execution, witnessed by a large crowd, served as a sober reminder of the harsh persecution endured by Christians during this period.
Despite the tragic circumstances surrounding his death, the unwavering faith and witness of Cosmas Takeya inspired many others who were witnessing the brutal persecution of Christians during that time. He became known for his steadfast devotion to Christ and his unwavering commitment to the Catholic Church.
Recognition of his martyrdom and the reverence for his life of faith and sacrifice led to his veneration. On February 26, 1866, Pope Pius IX declared Cosmas Takeya Sozaburo a martyr, recognizing his death as a supreme witness to his faith. Later, on May 7, 1867, Pope Pius IX beatified him, acknowledging his sanctity and adding him to the ranks of the blessed.
Blessed Cosmas Takeya Sozaburo's life stands as a testament to the courage and unyielding faith of the early Japanese Catholics, who faced severe persecution for their beliefs. His example continues to inspire all believers to stand firm in their faith, even in the face of adversity.