Justus Takayama Ukon (1552–1615)

Biography

Japanese feudal lord and samurai, Justo Takayama Ukon embraced Christianity and used his authority to promote evangelization and the training of catechists. When the rulers demanded that he abandon the faith, he renounced lands, honors, and security rather than betray his baptism. He lived years of poverty and hiding and was finally banished to Manila, where he died shortly after arriving. Their testimony shows that true honor lies not in maintaining power, but in remaining loyal to Christ when that loyalty comes at a price.