Saint James Kisai

detail of a photograph of Saint James Kisai from the monoment to the martyrs; date unknown, photographer unknown, artist unknown Also known as

Didacus Kisai
Diego Kisai
James Kizayemon

Memorial

6 February

Profile

Raised Buddhist. Convert to Christianity. Married layman, and father of one son. His wife returned to her Buddhist roots; the two separated, and placed their child with a Christian family. Worked as a layman with the Jesuits in Osaka, Japan, caring for guests in their residence. Catechist in Osaka. Arrested with Paul Miki. Jesuit novice co-adjutor brother, joining the Society while imprisoned. One of the Martyrs of Nagasaki.