Jesus Loves Japan: Return Migration and Global Pentecostalism in a Brazilian Diaspora

by Suma Ikeuchi

After the introduction of the "long-term resident" visa, the mass-migration of Nikkeis (Japanese Brazilians) has led to roughly 190,000 Brazilian nationals living in Japan. While the ancestry-based visa confers Nikkeis' right to settlement virtually as a right of blood, their ethnic ambiguity and working-class profile often prevent them from feeling at home in their supposed ethnic homeland. In response, many have converted to Pentecostalism, reflecting the explosive trend across Latin America since the 1970s. Jesus Loves Japan offers a rare window into lives at the crossroads of return migration and global Pentecostalism. Suma Ikeuchi argues that charismatic Christianity appeals to Nikkei migrants as a "third culture"―one that transcends ethno-national boundaries and offers a way out of a reality marked by stagnant national indifference. Jesus Loves Japan insightfully describes the political process of homecoming through the lens of religion, and the ubiquitous figure of the migrant as the pilgrim of a transnational future.

256 pages, Paperback

Published June 18, 2019

Reviews

[Sam Sleeman · Rating 4 out of 5]

a little light on the theory, which to be honest, is not unwelcome at this point in term, but i suppose feels like a missed opportunity at time. nevertheless, a breeze to read and a lovely portrait of how people make home in a country that would rather they do not exist. chapter seven in particular is masterful.

[Beatrice · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating -- probably the closest "sister phenomenon" to my own project that I'll ever find.

[Danger · Rating 4 out of 5]

forced to read for anthropology. but still not bad!