Biography
Louis Ibaraki
About Louis Ibaraki
Louis Ibaraki was a Japanese boy who served at the altar for the Franciscan missionaries. Nominis describes him as twelve years old when he was arrested and taken to Nagasaki. His short life is remembered within the story of the twenty-six martyrs.
The Secular Franciscan Order remembers his courage and high spirits during the forced march. He encouraged those around him through the humiliations and hardship they endured.
A contemporary account read in the Jesuit liturgy singles out Louis’s joy at the execution ground. When someone spoke of heaven, his gestures drew the attention of those watching. The narrative records a child’s response amid the suffering of the group.
He was crucified at Nagasaki on February 5, 1597 and was canonized with his companions in 1862. Their Catholic commemoration is February 6.
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