Shitsu Church

When he discovered the underground Christians, Petitjean realized that there were many other Christians hiding in the Sotome region. He appointed de Rotz as the parish priest of the Shitsu and Kurosaki districts. On an elevation commanding a view over the Sea of Goto, he established a church at his own expense. The building was extended and renovated again and again.

The church was constructed in the same way as Oura Cathedral, which is now designated as a national treasure. A layer of mortar covers all the bricks used in constructing the walls of both churches.

Shitsu Sightseeing Route.

Shitsu Church seen from the southwest.

There are two side entrances, one for men and the other for women. Each of the entrances leads to separate pews on the right or the left inside the church.

Shitsu Church seen from the north.

Putting importance on practical use, de Rotz designed a sturdy building with large depth.

Bell tower of Shitsu Church.
A statue of Mary that he ordered from France is standing in the bell tower.

The bell is gone, having been given up in response to metal collections during World War II.

Interior of the Shitsu Church.

The low roofs and the flat or slightly vaulted ceilings are effective in withstanding the strong winds that blow there.

Story of Maruo Hill - Luis de Almeida

Cover page.
Story of Maruo Hill
Luis de Almeida

Project: Yoshitaka Tanaka (Regional Development Cooperation Team).
Cartoon painying: Yonekura Yuji Corporation.
Clothing Center Shimizuya.
World Cultural Heritage - Hidden Christian Heritage Sites in Nagazaki and the Amakusa Region.

Page one.
Luis de Ameida: My name is Luis de Almeida.
"In 1561, after preaching in Takushima, Ikitsuki, Shishi and Iira of Hirado City, I boarded a boat prepared by the villagers, and I headed to another Christian settlement called Kasuma.
In Kasuga, there is a cemetery which Christians call Maruo Mountain sleep. The large cross is also a testament to the great faith of the villagers. The villagers knew that I was going to visit. They greeted me with a big welcome.
Sakuchi: I'm Sakuchi, the head of this place. A place where one is tired from a long journey.
Luis de Ameida: If there's anything I can do, I will also ask for guidance to help.
Sakuchi: One of our villagers, a Christian, died of illness. We have to prepare for the burial now. Please don't be offended.

From the Epistle of Luis de Almeida.

Page two.
Luis de Almeida: You don't have to be sad. Your mother left for 'Paraiso' in peace!
Note: 'Paraiso' in Portuguese, heaven, Christian term for paradise.
Over the cross: Eternal rest, grant to her O Lord, And let perpetual light shine upon her.
Over the coffin: Light shine upon her.
Over the grave: O Lord, receive her soul. Lead her to your country. May she rest in peace. Amen.

Page three.
Son: Mom ! I thank you until now.
Son: Thank you. Even if I go to heaven, I'll always be your son.
Luis de Almeida: I made this 'Rosario' on my journey.
Luis de Almeida: I really want you to keep it. The 'Rosario' will always protect Sannosuke.
Luis de Almeida: My name is Luis de Almeida. Here in Kasuga, the view of the sea and the land is very beautiful, and the people are holy and good.