The bronze statue of St Francis of Assisi greets you. It stands proudly before Itabashi Catholic Church. This isn’t just any church. It’s a place steeped in history. Founded on September 17 1953 it’s dedicated to St Elizabeth of Hungary.
Itabashi Catholic Church wasn’t built overnight. It started in 1954. Franciscan Fathers from the Fulda Province in Germany bought a house in Itabashi. This was for missionaries learning Japanese. The church grew from there. Archbishop Tatsuo Doi’s request helped establish the Itabashi parish.
The Franciscan Fathers worked tirelessly. They oversaw the growth of Itabashi Catholic Church. Eventually two new parishes branched off. These are Kitamachi Church and Shimura Church. The church’s current atmosphere is one of prayer and family. This is a testament to its dedicated community.
Look closely. Notice the chapel to the left of the entrance. It’s a beautiful wooden structure. A Swiss designer created it. The thick pillars and beams evoke a mountain cottage. The pillars showcase various saints. Our Lady and St Joseph are central. You’ll also see St Mary Gorreti and St Tarsicio. These are patron saints of the youth. St Therese of the Child Jesus and St Francis Xavier are there too. They represent evangelists. The saints watch over the parishioners.
The chapel’s pipe organ sits at the back. The stained-glass window facing the street is unique. It depicts a pigeon a modern symbol of the Holy Spirit. For its 50th anniversary the church added a slope and accessible toilet. This ensures everyone can participate in mass.
Itabashi Catholic Church has always been under the Franciscan Fathers’ care. The church continues their legacy. It fosters faith through family and friendship. It welcomes people from the community and beyond. This is Itabashi Catholic Church. A place of faith community and history. A place where the past and present intertwine. It invites you to reflect and connect with its rich story.