MESSAGE

Kimiharu Uchimura, Chairperson

Hisao Mitsunaga, Chancellor

Kyushu Lutheran School will commemorate its centennial anniversary in October 2026.
In 1908, a single act of faith sowed the seeds of our institution—a $5 donation from a church in Pennsylvania, USA, given with the hope of establishing a Christian school for girls in Japan. This heartfelt gesture quickly blossomed into a nationwide movement among Lutheran churches across the United States. The U.S. Women’s Mission Bureau initiated a fundraising campaign with a target of $175,000, and within just two years, an impressive $250,000 had been raised.
Thus, in 1926, Kyushu Jogakuin—the predecessor of Kyushu Lutheran School—was founded in Kumamoto. Since its inception, the school has flourished through the unwavering dedication of countless individuals, becoming a vital presence as a mission school in the region. Beginning with just 70 female students, it has grown into a comprehensive educational institution encompassing a nursery school, kindergarten, junior high school, high school, college, and graduate school, serving approximately 2,000 students today. In April 2024, the International Primary School Division was launched with the mission of cultivating globally minded students equipped with leadership skills for an interconnected world.
While the structure of our school has evolved over time, our educational philosophy remains firmly grounded in our founding motto, “Gratitude and Service.” This enduring principle reflects our identity as a Christian institution devoted to character formation rooted in the spirit of Christianity. We are committed to nurturing individuals who live with gratitude for God's love and dedicate themselves to serving others.
Kyushu Lutheran School continues to uphold its tradition of “education of love”—an approach that respects each student as a unique individual, fosters intellectual curiosity and strong academic achievement, and nurtures rich and compassionate hearts.
“Kyushu Lutheran School Means English.” This phrase has long been associated with our school and continues to reflect our enduring commitment to cultivating individuals who are prepared to engage with the global community and contribute meaningfully to society.
As we step into our next 100 years, we sincerely appreciate your continued support and partnership. 

Kyushu Lutheran School
Kimiharu Uchimura,  Chairperson
Hisao Mitsunaga,  Chancellor

HISTORY

Request for Donations and Cooperation

Kyushu Lutheran School, which began as Kyushu Jogakuin in 1926, will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2026. We would like to take this opportunity to commemorate the occasion and further enhance our educational environment and programs. For this purpose, we have decided to seek donations from the general public.
The school was established by women of the Lutheran Church in the U.S., who prayed and raised funds to found a Christian-based school for girls in Japan. In 1926, the school opened with a small class of 70 students under the motto “Gratitude and Service.” After becoming co-educational in 2001, it has grown into a comprehensive educational institution, including a nursery school, kindergarten, junior high school, high school, college, and graduate school.
The school provides Christian-based character education that values each and every student. Building on this foundation, we promote the development of well-rounded individuals with strong academic abilities, respect for individuality, excellence in the arts and sports, and global competencies—an effort reflected in our long-standing commitment to the idea that “Kyushu Lutheran School Means English.”
This progress has been made possible through the thoughts, prayers, and generous support of many people. As we approach our centennial year, the opening of our International Primary School Division in April 2024 marks an exciting new step. We are determined to nurture globally minded individuals and to become a truly comprehensive educational institution in both name and reality.
We kindly ask for your support and cooperation in our fundraising efforts for the 100th anniversary in 2026—a year we see as a milestone for future growth and transformation.

《Commemorative Projects》

  1. Enhancement of the area surrounding the main gate of the institution
  2. Improvement of the educational environment for the Junior High School, High School, and College
  3. Establishment of a commemorative library
  4. Publication of a centennial commemorative magazine
  5. Commemorative worship services, ceremonies, and celebrations

100th Anniversary Committee
Hisao Mitsunaga,  Chair
Hirofumi Hayashida,  Chair of Fundraising