Founded in 1877 the Wakaba Church stands before you. Its history is woven into the very fabric of this neighborhood. It’s a story of faith resilience and community.
Imagine a time when Christianity was a novel idea in Japan. A young man Mr Yamagami sought out Father Germain Leger Testevuide. He wanted the priest to visit his village Shimoichibugata. Yamagami was drawn to Christianity’s ideals of freedom equality and philanthropy. Father Testevuide arrived to a joyful welcome. The villagers flocked to his classes. Baptisms followed one after another.
By 1877 the congregation numbered fifty. This growth continued until 1890. A chapel and chaplain’s residence were built. The parishioners reached 250. It seemed the entire village might embrace Christianity. Father Testevuide described this period as the third stage of the church’s development.
But hardship struck. Father Testevuide fell seriously ill and left Japan for treatment. Two missionaries oversaw the church for two years. Unfortunately the Tenshu Catechetical School closed for lack of funds. Then disaster struck a devastating fire burnt down the village in 1892. Many villagers moved to the city.
Father Jean George Mereau became the first chaplain after the fire. His strict teachings contrasted with the villagers’ more progressive social and political involvement. The Hachioji Church in Honcho became the base for evangelism. The Shimoichibugata Church restarted as an annex.
In 1927 the church celebrated its 50th anniversary. It was renamed Izumicho Church. It was brilliantly rebuilt by the community. The current chapel dates back to this time. After Father Mereau’s 44 years of service Japanese priests took over.
Father Anthony Saichi Nishida became chaplain in 1943. He was the first to live in the parsonage built at Motohachioji. It was a gift from both church communities for the church’s 100th anniversary. The church finally had its chaplain reside on the grounds. Father Francis of Assisi Tatsuo Iwako succeeded him. The church continued to grow.
Today Wakaba Church stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of faith. It’s a place of worship a community hub and a living piece of Japanese history. Its story is a powerful reminder of perseverance and the deep bonds within a faith community.