SW News: Pope Francis on Sunday honored the martyrs of Japan who died during the two centuries of persecution. Pope urged Christians never to forget the heroic sacrifice of the martyrs who “consecrated the ground by their suffering and death.” The Holy Father Said that “The blood of the martyrs becomes the seed of the new life that Jesus wishes to bestow on us. He said, “The witness of the martyrs,  confirms us in faith and helps us to renew our dedication and commitment to missionary discipleship.” In the 16th and 17th century, Christian missionaries and followers were severely persecuted in Japan for being more loyal to Jesus than the King.