On Sunday August 24, 2025, as a run-up to the launch of the new NEANZ Province, effective September 1, the former Province of Japan conducted a thirty-minute Zoom program entitled “Thank You, Japan Province”. Our deepest gratitude goes to the many sisters who, over its 117-year history, have been devoted to the mission in East Asia, especially to those from New Zealand, Australia, Europe, and the United States. We also prayed for God’s blessings on this new journey, united with the sisters of ANZ and KOC and our mission partners.
The video prepared for this program helped us to reflect on our journey to date. The mission of the Society of the Sacred Heart that started with Saint Madeleine Sophie was brought to Japan in 1908 by four sisters from New Zealand and Australia. Despite the challenges of two world wars and numerous natural disasters, the sisters continued to fulfill their mission through the service of education with unwavering dedication. We shall never forget their efforts.
The footprints of the Society of the Sacred Heart spread from Japan to various regions of Asia (South Korea, China, Taiwan, and the Philippines). Its steps grew steady in each region, which eventually became independent and resulted in a stand-alone Japan Province in 1990.
When looking back at the transformation of the governing structure throughout our history, we are excited at the prospect of once again moving forward closely with ANZ and KOC.
Following the first sprout, CEI, NEANZ is the second seed to spring up, grounded by a very strong bond built throughout our history as ANZ, KOC, and JPN. With deepest gratitude to those who have guided us thus far, connected in the joy of being a member of NEANZ Province, together with Sister Anne Corry, the first Provincial Superior of NEANZ, we will move forward one step at a time towards the path unfolding.
Sachiko Tanase RSCJ
Japan, NEANZ Province
Section |New Provinces
