Blessed Leonardus Kimura

Biography

Blessed Leonardus Kimura, also known as Leonard Chimura or Leonard Chimurra, was born around 1575 in Nagasaki, Japan. He came from a Christian family and was raised in the Catholic faith. His grandfather was actually the first Japanese person to be baptized by the renowned Jesuit missionary, Saint Francis Xavier. Leonard was also related to another esteemed figure in Catholicism, Blessed Anthony Kimura.

As a young man, Leonard attended the Jesuit school in Nagasaki, where he received an education deeply rooted in his faith. He developed a strong devotion to the Catholic Church and felt called to serve as a lay catechist, helping to spread the teachings of the Church to others in his community. Leonard's commitment to sharing his faith led him to accompany Jesuit priests on various missionary trips throughout Japan.

In addition to his role as a lay catechist, Leonard served as a Jesuit Co-adjutor Brother, fulfilling tasks as a cook and tailor in the Jesuit community. When the Jesuits were expelled from Japan in 1614 due to political tensions, Leonard made the remarkable decision to remain behind, continuing his work alone and living as a fugitive to practice his faith.

In 1619, Leonard's dedication to his mission led to his capture by the authorities. He was in the company of a small group of Christians when they were apprehended. Despite his disguise as a Japanese gentleman, the priest hunters had no idea that they had captured a Jesuit. During his trial, the judge offered Leonard the customary 200 pieces of silver in exchange for information on the whereabouts of a Jesuit priest. To the surprise of the court, Leonard revealed, "I know one Jesuit; he is a Co-adjutor Brother and not a priest, and I am that Brother." This courageous admission led to his imprisonment.

While in prison, Leonard continued to serve as a catechist, tirelessly spreading the Gospel to both jailers and fellow prisoners. His efforts were fruitful, resulting in numerous conversions and the establishment of a Christian community within the prison walls. He organized fixed times for prayer and meditation, transforming the prison environment into a place where the faith thrived.

Unfortunately, Leonard's unwavering devotion to his faith ultimately led to his martyrdom. On November 18, 1619, he was burned alive before a crowd of approximately 20,000 people at Nishizaka in Nagasaki, Japan. The public execution was a brutal attempt to suppress Christianity in Japan.

The holiness of Leonardus Kimura and his martyrdom were later recognized and venerated by the Catholic Church. On February 26, 1866, Pope Pius IX declared the martyrdom of Blessed Leonardus Kimura. One year later, on May 7, 1867, Pope Pius IX beatified him, acknowledging his exemplary life of faith and sacrifice. Blessed Leonardus Kimura is honored and remembered on his feast day, which falls on November 18th each year.