Japanese Prime Minister Abe visits Pontiff
June 06, 2014
Pope Francis met on June 6 with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, for “cordial” discussions that touched on Church-state cooperation, education, international relations, and nuclear disarmament.
In the traditional exchange of small gifts, the Japanese premier gave the Pontiff a “magic” mirror, of a kind used by Japanese Christians in the 17th century. While appearing as an ordinary mirror, the glass when exposed to light shows an image of Jesus and of the Cross. Such mirrors were used by Christians at a time when public exposure as a Christian in Japan could bring harsh punishment, including death.
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Further information:
- Audience with the Prime Minister of Japan: Understanding and Collaboration between Church and State (VIS)
- Prime Minister Abe meets pope, gives him a 'magic' mirror (AsiaNews)
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