Japan: Passing the Torch of Education

In the face of declining religious vocations in Japan, an innovative training program led by laypeople is redefining the future of Catholic schools. 

A Bold Response to the Crisis

For a long time, many Catholic schools in Japan have faced a harsh reality: aging and the decline in vocations make it difficult to send sisters and priests to these institutions, prompting several religious congregations to withdraw from the ministry of education. It was from this observation that a hopeful initiative was born in 2007: "building a training program together". 

With the help of the late Bishop Kazuhiro Mori—Auxiliary Bishop of Tokyo from 1985 to 2000, who passed away in 2023—this project rests on a strong conviction: it is "people" who will save schools from crisis. Officially launched in 2009 with 33 pioneers, the program saw its 17th cohort graduate of 35 in March 2026. 

Listening, Reflecting, and Growing Together

The concept is simple: twice a month on Saturdays, participants and staff gather for ongoing

training. Through study sessions, they explore the Gospel, analyze contemporary society, and deepen the mission of Catholic education. The topics range from biblical study to the practical support of students. 

Managed by volunteer teachers, the staff bears witness to a beautiful ecclesial collaboration. Sister Marie Joseph Kikuko Sugita is one of the starting members. In particular, she covers the areas of the Bible and the history of congregations and school. In a context where few participating teachers are Christian, these spaces for dialogue prove essential for overcoming the doubts and daily challenges of the institutions. 

The Spirit of Nicolas Barré in Action

This shared journey transforms the participants just as much as the Catholic school teachers. For Sister Marie Joseph, this mission directly echoes the words of Blessed Nicolas Barré: "Acting out of necessity opens the mind and forces greater effort... furthermore, the best way to learn is to teach."

Sustained by gratitude toward the founders and the strength of mutual support, this work traces a bright path for the future of Catholic schools in Japan, turning a crisis into a unique opportunity for renewal.