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.