Takayama Ukon
1552-1615 16th century Feast day: February 3
The surrender of rank and goods rather than betray what matters most.
Who was Takayama Ukon?
A daimyo and tea master, converted young to Christianity, he chose to lose his fiefs rather than renounce his faith when power demanded it. Dispossessed, he lived for years in obscurity, sheltered by other lords, then was exiled to the Philippines. He died in Manila forty-three days after arriving, welcomed as a confessor of the faith.
In their own words
I have sworn allegiance to my lord; but I am ready to give up wealth, rank and power to follow a greater Lord, Jesus Christ.