His last four years he had to spent in the hospital

The last years, ill and weary Brother Zeno spent in the catholic hospital run by religious sisters. During that time Brother Zenon was regularly visited by children, young people as well as adults. Thankful, the Japanese people wanted to show the sick Brother Zenon how much they love him till the end. Amongst his visitors were, often the people whom Brother Zeno helped. Quite often sick Brother Zeno was visited by the Government officials and even by the members of the Emperor’s Family. Of course around the clock, the very sensitive and caring sisters took care off the Protector of the under privileged.

Brother Zeno was very busy through his entire life, working very hard for the needy of Japan. His last four years he had to spent in the hospital. When Pope, John Paul II visited Japan on 23 February 1981 Brother Zeno was brought to Tokyo’s Cathedral for a very emotional meeting with the Holy Father. The event was widely reported by the Japanese media.