Cardinal Isao Kikuchi of Tokyo called on Catholics to reject selfishness and intolerance and instead embrace solidarity, saying it is what the world needs “now more than ever.”
In his Holy Thursday homily during the Mass of the Lord’s Supper at St. Mary’s Cathedral, the cardinal lamented the erosion of human relationships caused by conflict, violence, and individualism.
“A selfish and intolerant world destroys human relationships, and as these relationships are severed, despair dominates us,” said Cardinal Kikuchi. “What we need now is hope, and for that it is essential to restore the bonds between human beings who support each other and walk together.”
The archbishop tied his message to the Church’s observance of the Jubilee Year 2025, themed Pilgrims of Hope, and Pope Francis’ call for renewed mission in a wounded world.
Quoting the pope’s Jubilee Bull, Spes Non Confundit, Kikuchi said, “The Church has the mission of proclaiming the Lord Jesus as our hope to all people, at all times and in all places.”
He reminded the faithful that the Eucharist, instituted by Christ at the Last Supper, is not only a sign of Christ’s presence but also a call to action.
“The Lord is present where we offer ourselves as a sacrifice, as the bread is broken and the grapes are crushed,” the cardinal said. “The Lord is present where we do not try to protect ourselves, but where we care for our neighbors, support each other, and walk together.”
Kikuchi urged Catholics to remember Jesus’ example of humble service, citing the Gospel account of the washing of feet. “‘Now if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet; for I have given you an example, that you should do just as I have done to you.’”
He said every celebration of the Eucharist is a reminder to put Jesus’ love into practice. “We recall the love of the Lord, who tore his body, was crushed, and yet offered himself for the humanity he loved.”
Earlier in the day, during the Chrism Mass, Kikuchi asked the faithful to pray for priests, saying, “A priest is also a weak human being… I sincerely ask for your support through prayer so that the priests can faithfully fulfill their sacred duties.”
