On January 3, 1597, among the 26 Martyrs, 24 believers including Father Bautista had their ears cut off. Then they were divided into groups of three and put on 8 cow carriages to be dragged about within the city. It is said that when his ear was cut, Tome Kosaki told the government officials, “If you wish, please cut my ear more and shed the blood of Christians until you are satisfied.”
(On January 3, 2001, our church members spent more than three hours walking with prayer, following the paths that the 26 Martyrs were dragged about. 2001 became the year of blessing to our church.)
