Frans Sercu (1924-2025)
Born in Ardooie, Belgium, on October 4, 1924.
Religious vows on September 8, 1943.
Ordained priest on October 24, 1948.
Missionary in Japan.
Died in Himeji, Japan, on June 30, 2025,
at the age of 100.
“Go into all the world and proclaim the Good News” (Mark 16:15)
With deep gratitude, we remember the life and missionary witness of Frans Sercu.
Baptized on the day of his birth by his uncle, Fr. Frans Sercu (1899-1961), former Superior General of CICM (1957-1961), he was inspired by his uncle’s example to dedicate his life to the Gospel. Answering Christ’s call to “go into all the world,” he joined the CICM Missionaries and, after the Second World War, was sent to Japan in 1949, becoming one of the early pioneers of the mission that had begun the previous year, in 1948.
Over many decades, Sercu served with unwavering zeal—as pastor, notably in Ako and Mizushima churches; as Operations Manager at Junshin Gakuin (school); as Bible group leader for parents eager to deepen their understanding of the Gospel; and as Provincial Treasurer of what was then the CICM Province of Japan. He lived the Gospel not merely in words but through the simplicity, generosity, and integrity of his life. His quiet strength, missionary commitment, and compassion for others left a deep and lasting impression on all who knew him.
We give thanks to God for the gift of Sercu’s long and fruitful life. May the Lord, whom he served with such faithfulness, now welcome him into the joy of eternal rest. Requiescat in pace.
- Toon Margot
