Farewell, Father and Son…John Goto 1

 At that precise moment, the father of John Goto had come to bid him last farewell.
He said to his father.
"Look well to it, sir my father, there is nothing more important than salvation. I wish that you never get careless or neglect."
"My son, you're right. I never neglect. See that you have much courage and get filled with strength at this hour and die joyfully, for you die in the service of God. We will be happy to watch you're going to die. Both I and your mother are also prepared to give up our lives to Christ for the love of Our Lord, if it is necessary."

Martyrdom

First, Paul Miki ,a friar, made a confession, and then James Kisai and John Goto ( also called Joan Soan) made confession. When these two finished their confession, Priest Pasio permitted them to be formal members of the Jesuit.

Martyrdom

On the way, they had a break for a while at the hospital for leprosy in Urakami, where Father Pasio, the Jesuit, was waiting. He was there to hear confession of three members of Jesuit.

Martyrdom

Their journey which started from Kyoto would be over soon. Leaving Togitsu they spent their last night on the earth, they started to walk as soon as the day broke. They were on and on walking toward the hill of Nishizaka, the place of execution.

Martyrdom

Wednesday, February 5th, 1597, the day 26 Saints of Martyrs were supposed to be martyred was finally here.  

Last Wish 10

Last Wish 10

But twenty-six martyrs had nothing they had lost. They returned with glorious victory on the hill of Nishizaka to meet Jesus Christ Himself.

Last Wish 9

Last Wish 9

Like Pilatus who let people dominate Jesus with fear of people and purpose to keep his position,  Hanzaburo got afraid of Hideyoshi and refused wishes of martyrs to keep his own position.