Tomoko was raised in a Protestant family, but she converted to Catholicism in college. In her case, Catholicism has been closely linked to education.
Tomoko wanted to emigrate to the United States to advance her career, and she had an opportunity to do soon after she graduated in Tokyo.
One of the stumbling blocks was money. With heart in her hand, Tomoko approached Father Belleau, a Dominican priest from Toronto. While studying at the university, Tomoko was an organist at the nearby church where Father Belleau served. “Father, you have been so kind to my brother and me over the years. I have been so blessed to know you. Now I have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to go to America to perform and study.” Dr. Belleau congratulated her warmly. Tomoko paused, breathed deeply, and soldiered on. “Do you think there is any way that the Church can help me find the funding to help pay for the flight?”
Father Belleau closed his eyes in thoughtful prayer. “Let me discuss this request with the other clergy. God will find a way for you, I pray. ”True to his word, Father Belleau made an announcement at the following Mass when Tomoko was accompanying the service. “Our own organist Tomoko Hagiwara has been invited to the University of California Los Angeles to accompany Japanese opera singers. Our second collection will be given to Tomoko to help fund her flight. Please find it in your heart to donate to this worthy cause – and to thank Miss Hagiwara for her steadfast and wonderful playing. We will miss her.”
Tomoko stayed after the service, thanking the congregation who remained after she finished the recessional. Nervously she waited as Father Belleau came up to her. “Tomoko, I am happy to say that the congregation was very generous. Here is enough money to pay for your flight.” Tomoko gasped, with grateful tears in her eyes. “I am so humbled,” Tomoko whispered. “You have been so kind and generous yourself, Father. I will always hold a special place in my heart for you.” With almost shaking hands, Tomoko accepted the envelope with the offering. “I thank you, the congregation and God for helping me make my dream come true.”
