Japanese WWII Prisoner Finds Faith and Freedom in New Zealand Camp

Michiharu Shinya, a Japanese torpedo officer during World War II, experienced a profound spiritual transformation while held as a prisoner of war at the Featherston camp in New Zealand. After his destroyer sank in 1942, Shinya was captured and initially struggled with the shame of his situation. However, he noted that the unexpected kindness shown by his captors, including Christmas gifts, challenged his perspective.

Shinya recounts that his interest in Christianity began after reading a quote from the prophet Isaiah, which promised renewed strength to those who hope in the Lord. This led him to study the Bible, starting from Genesis. While hospitalized with malaria, he read a booklet on salvation and began attending Bible studies led by Pastor Hessell Troughton, a former missionary to Japan who spoke his language. Shinya says he came to know Jesus as his Savior during this time, describing his experience in the camp as a transition into a unique paradise where he found true freedom.