(13) Japan's Environment

March 5, 1926 from Miyazaki
To the Vicar General, Fr. Ricaldone Pietro

At that time, Father Ricaldone was the Vice-General of the Salesian Society and in charge of the mission areas.

My good Father Pietro Ricciardone

(Omitted) Miyazaki's population is around 40,000, but it is growing. This is the first posting for government officials and civil servants. The officials are very enthusiastic and want to know even the smallest details. We have already been interviewed from every angle. I don't know what will happen after that, but overall, they are very caring. I was asked about all my titles and they bowed so many times! They were also so impressed to find out that I can speak various foreign languages. This is a thriving agricultural region, and there is an agricultural high school there, but I have not yet visited it. (Omitted)

Wherever I go in Japan, as long as there is flat land, it is methodically tended and cultivated with the dexterity that is unique to the Japanese. Manure pits are used extensively, so there is a foul smell in the air. Rice fields, and the mosquitoes that come with them, are abundant. However, my stay was short, so I cannot make a clear judgment. (Omitted)

In Miyazaki, generally speaking, you can find everything (rice, fish, fruit, meat, milk, eggs, bread, etc.) What more could you want?

According to the attached paper, there are more than 200 believers in Miyazaki, but at present, only a little over 100 actually attend. We will see them at Easter. The children are no different from Italian children. They sing quite well. On the Feast of St. Joseph and at Easter, we plan to sing a solemn mass and do a little magic lantern show. The children are born to play, sing and act. We have made a connection with them. They are a little shy, but I wonder why. You will find out one day. (Omitted)

In conclusion, our journey to Japan, life after arriving, the welcome we received from the people, and our initial contact all have been touched by an incredible and indescribable divine providence. It feels as if God's hand is guiding us to Japan and is already giving us a glimpse of the great harvest that is to come.

As for Miyazaki, uncared for children are as numerous as ants. I saw it especially in the downtown area. Oh my God, our Mother, Don Bosco, please help these little Salesians to loosen their tongues as soon as possible!

Certainly, up until now, Jesus has treated us with gloves on. There will be thorns ahead. I hope so! But may God's kingdom reign victorious!

The winds of democratization are blowing strongly in this country, and many old things are about to be discarded. They have adopted the decimal system, are studying English, and are dressing in Western styles at work and at school. Will this lead to progress in a positive direction? Please, Lord, help me.

I am currently collecting all the cute folk songs and other songs that I have composed.

I hug you tight. Please convey the Happy Easter to everyone. Our members are doing very well. Please bless me. Oh, and remember that we want to be there in the procession of Our Lady Help of Christians (May 24th)!!!

Father Vincenzo