Blessed Gaspar Nishi Genka

Biography

Blessed Gaspar Nishi Genka, also known as Gaspar Nishi, was a layman and catechist from the archdiocese of Nagasaki, Japan. He was born around 1555 in Ikitsuki, Nagasaki, Japan. Gaspar married Blessed Ursula Nishi, and together they had a son named Blessed Ioannes Nishi Mataishi.

Gaspar Nishi was a devout Catholic who dedicated his life to spreading and teaching the faith. He served as a catechist in the archdiocese of Nagasaki, where he tirelessly worked to educate others about the Catholic beliefs and practices. Gaspar's commitment to his faith extended beyond his role as a catechist, as he actively participated in the life of the local Christian community.

During the early 17th century, Japan was under strict anti-Christian policies imposed by the Tokugawa Shogunate. Catholics faced persecution, and their practice of the faith was prohibited. Gaspar Nishi and his family were confronted with great challenges and threats to their faith.

Despite facing grave dangers, Gaspar Nishi refused to renounce his Catholic beliefs. On November 14, 1609, Gaspar and his son, Ioannes Nishi Mataishi, were arrested for their faith. They were questioned and subjected to intense pressure to renounce their Christian faith, yet they firmly held onto their beliefs.

Gaspar Nishi and Ioannes Nishi Mataishi were ultimately sentenced to death for their unwavering commitment to the Catholic Church. On November 14, 1609, Gaspar was martyred in Ikitsuki, Nagasaki, Japan, alongside his son.

Their witness and sacrifice for their faith did not go unnoticed, as the Catholic Church recognized their heroic virtue. On June 1, 2007, Pope Benedict XVI issued a decree on their martyrdom, acknowledging their fidelity amidst persecution. Gaspar Nishi and Ioannes Nishi Mataishi were beatified on November 24, 2008, by Pope Benedict XVI.

The beatification ceremony took place at the Nagasaki Prefectural Baseball Park, also known as the Big N Stadium, in Nagasaki, Japan. Cardinal José Saraiva Martins presided over the ceremony, where the courageous lives of Gaspar Nishi and Ioannes Nishi Mataishi were celebrated and honored.

Blessed Gaspar Nishi Genka is remembered as a dedicated catechist and a faithful witness to the Catholic faith in the face of severe persecution. His unwavering commitment and sacrifice continue to inspire and strengthen the faithful. He is venerated on November 14 and July 1, particularly in the Archdiocese of Nagasaki, Japan.