Could the walls of this church speak what stories would they tell? Let’s explore the rich history of the Catholic Matsubara Church. This church stands as a beacon of faith and community in Tokyo. Catholic Matsubara Church is located in Setagaya. It is conveniently located a mere four-minute walk from Meidaimae Station. This station is served by the Keio Line and the Keio Inokashira Line.
The seeds of Catholic Matsubara Church were sown in October 1953. At that time the Society of the Divine Word used it as a missionary center. It also served as lodging for members visiting Tokyo. The building was a modest Japanese-style house.
In 1954 a sign reading Catholic Divine Word Society was put up. Mass was celebrated irregularly. It functioned as a rotating church a branch of Setagaya Church.
A resident priest was appointed in August 1955. He started pastoral work and missionary activities. Matsubara Catholic Church was established by the Propaganda Fide of Rome. It was recognized by the Tokyo Archdiocese.
A new building was completed in February 1965. It housed the parish facilities the priest’s office and residence. The church was dedicated to Mary Immaculate. From humble beginnings with only seven attendees the Catholic Matsubara Church has grown. It now has over 1200 parishioners.
The Catholic Matsubara Church’s sanctuary has a fan shape. This design allows the priest to see all parishioners. The church has a vibrant tradition of music. Its annual charity concert is highly regarded. Proceeds support the Sisters of Saint Mary. This group works in the Philippines.
The Catholic Matsubara Church is deeply involved in community outreach. Their volunteer group has been active since 1974. They work with both parishioners and local residents. The Catholic Matsubara Church also runs a Sunday school for children. Dedicated leaders and sisters support it.
Each Christmas the Catholic Matsubara Church stages an elaborate Nativity play. In autumn a bazaar raises funds for aid. These funds are used both domestically and internationally.
The Catholic Matsubara Church’s mother body is the Congregation of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. It was founded in 1862 by Father Theophile Verbist. He aimed to serve the children of China. Today the Catholic Matsubara Church continues this legacy. It is a center for worship community and service.