The Secret Christian Organization in Tomogi

The structure and survival of the hidden Christian community in Tomogi without priests.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Leadership of Jiisama and Tossama

Leadership of Jiisama and Tossama The Hierarchy In Tomogi, the Christians had organized themselves. The Jiisama (old man) was the highest authority, performing baptisms. Below him were Tossama, who taught catechism and led prayers, and Mideshi, the helpers. Secret Meetings They met in houses, recited prayers in Latin, and celebrated feasts. They had no priests but kept the faith alive through memory and determination. Significance This organization demonstrates the resilience of the Japanese Christians. It provided a model for other communities. It also shows how Christianity adapted to the persecution.

Testing the Organization

Testing the Organization The Search When the officials came, the Tossama quickly hid the holy pictures. The Jiisama answered calmly. The peasants pretended to be fools. The officials were satisfied and left. The Hostage Crisis Despite the organization, the officials took hostages. The system could not protect everyone. The community was torn between loyalty and fear. Significance

Before the priests' arrival, 1632-1638

After the officials' search, June 1638