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Feast Day: October 15
Death: October 15, 1619
Blessed Balthasar Kagayama Hanzaemon was a married layman who lived in the diocese of Fukuoka, Japan during the 16th century. He is best known as the father of Blessed Iacobus of Hiji and for his martyrdom.
Blessed Balthasar was born around 1572 in Takatsuki, Osaka, Japan. As a devout Catholic, he lived his life faithfully and raised his family in the Catholic faith during a time of severe persecution against Christians in Japan. Despite the dangers and hardships faced by Catholics, Blessed Balthasar remained strong in his faith and continued to practice it openly.
Not much is known about Blessed Balthasar's personal life, as historical records from that period are scarce. However, it is known that he was married and had at least one son, the future Blessed Iacobus of Hiji.
Blessed Balthasar Kagayama Hanzaemon faced increased persecution as the anti-Christian sentiment intensified in Japan. During this time, Christians were persecuted, tortured, and executed for their faith. Despite the risks involved, Blessed Balthasar remained steadfast in his beliefs and committed to spreading the Gospel.
Tragically, Blessed Balthasar was ultimately captured and martyred for his Christian faith. On October 15, 1619, he died a martyr's death in Hiji, Oita, Japan. His courage and commitment to his faith even in the face of persecution serve as an inspiring example for believers today.
Blessed Balthasar Kagayama Hanzaemon was acknowledged for his martyrdom and declared venerable by Pope Benedict XVI on June 1, 2007. Later, on November 24, 2008, he was beatified by the same pope. The beatification ceremony took place at the Nagasaki Prefectural Baseball Park (Big N Stadium) in Nagasaki, Japan, presided over by Cardinal José Saraiva Martins.
Blessed Balthasar's feast day is celebrated on October 15, the day of his martyrdom, as well as on July 1 in the Diocese of Fukuoka, Japan. His life serves as a reminder of the tremendous sacrifices made by Japanese Catholics during the tumultuous period of persecution, and he stands as a symbol of faith and resilience for all believers.