Matenoura Church

A contemporary sanctuary in Shinkamigoto, tracing its lineage from a humble village “Orasho Hall” to a vibrant, independent parish rebuilt in 2010.

Matenoura Church stands as a symbol of the steady growth and modernization of the Christian communities in central Kamigoto. The village’s spiritual roots are centered around the “Orasho Hall” (Prayer Hall), a modest site located near the entrance of the village from the national highway. While its exact origins remain a mystery, this hall served as the community’s primary sanctuary during the centuries of hidden practice and the early years of religious freedom.

As the congregation outgrew its original meeting spaces, a dedicated church was constructed at the current hillside location in 1956. This milestone was followed by the community achieving its independence as the Matenoura Parish in 1975. To better serve the modern needs of the faithful, the structure was completely rebuilt in 2010. The current church features a clean, bright design that harmonizes with the surrounding residential village and offers a welcoming atmosphere for both parishioners and visitors.