Following our time at the UN plastic pollution treaty negotiating session in South Korea, Sisters Teresa Mitani, Chizuru Yamada and I took a plane and a boat to their home in Japan. Although I have some business to take care of here, a side benefit has been to experience life with our Japanese sisters. They are all busy with ministry commitments, yet they make time for meaningful prayer or Mass together most mornings at 6:30 and prioritize meals together three times a day.
I enjoyed all the Japanese food. Breakfast is similar to mine in the United States with toast, yogurt, fruit and other items. I also tried and like this interesting dish called natto (fermented soybeans); there is really nothing to compare it to, so you will have to come to Japan and try it for yourself.
Most days, Sister Mary Paul goes shopping, and I enjoy going with her. She shows me various foods, and she has bought a few unnecessary foods just for me to try. I told her I love sashimi (thinly sliced raw fish), so we had some as a special treat.
The midday meal is the main meal. I have eaten many new things and enjoyed them all. The table conversation at all meals is very lively and engaging. They translate a lot for me or say it in English. I enjoy watching the interaction when it is strictly Japanese.
One of the things that has really surprised me is the number of times alumnae and former teachers stop by the convent to visit. This Thursday, a choral group with representatives of the graduating classes from St. Joseph Joshi Gakuen, our high school, will perform a Christmas concert in our chapel and then have a bento lunch to celebrate. I’m looking forward to it.
The parish here is a very important part of life. With so few Catholics in Japan, the parish has a strong bond of community. Sister Chizuru works there two days a week, Sister Mary Paul plays the organ, and they all know everyone.
One day, Sister Mary Paul took me by several trains to Osaka, where four of our retired sisters live at a retirement home called the House of God’s Grace. It’s a lovely place with four floors and different levels of healthcare. It’s Catholic with daily Mass available.
The sisters were very happy to see us. They gave us a tour of the facility. While we visited, I shared some of my pictures from the UN Plastic Pollution Treaty in South Korea. They were delighted that two of the Sisters from Japan were able to attend.
The Sisters introduced us to some of the other sisters from different congregations, noting that they have good friends, enjoy being together, and are happy. They commented on the good food and the convenience of coordinated healthcare.
On the trip home, Mary Paul and I rode the Firebird (Phoenix) Express. The Firebird is said to bring good luck and rebirth. It was also the fastest train back to Tsu.
Another day, Sister Lucia took me to two temples and shared a lot about Japanese history and culture. We took trains to get everywhere, and it was wonderful.
These are just a few reflections on my experience here. I am very grateful for this time in Japan!