St. Ignatius Church, Catholic Kojimachi

Located in Tokyo’s Yotsuya district, St. Ignatius Church is a Catholic church offering masses in various languages every Sunday. The church is named after Saint Ignatius of Loyola, founder and first Superior General of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits). For more than 80 years, since its origins as the "Church of St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus" established in 1936, it has been beloved by both worshippers and the local community.

The current church building was completed in 1999, with its oval-shaped main sanctuary as the central feature. The image of Jesus on the front wall symbolizes resurrection and freedom from suffering and death. The sanctuary is arranged radially, with seats for priests, altar servers, parishioners, balconies, and the choir surrounding the altar.

At the heart of the sanctuary is the altar, representing the table of the Last Supper shared by Jesus and his disciples. Twelve pillars symbolize the Twelve Apostles supporting the Church of Christ. Twelve stained glass windows along the walls each depict nature as created by God.

Additionally, the church complex includes the Chapel of Mary and the Chapel of St. Francis Xavier. At the information center, visitors can purchase Bibles, Christian books, CDs, rosaries, and religious statues.