In 1614, Christianity was outlawed in Japan by the Tokugawa Shogunate with expulsion of all missionaries and execution of converts. However some Christians refused to abandon the religion and went underground, continuing their faith in secret for centuries.

In 2022, APAVM Chairman Ben Chang took an audacious leap of faith and pushed ahead with the 4th APAVM Chapter Visit, delayed many times because of the uncertainties and travel restrictions of the Covid 19 Pandemic. Originally scheduled for May 2020, Ben spent the ensuing 2 years fine-tuning the original itinerary…

“Beauty Ever Ancient, Ever New” were the words Chairman Ben Chang used in his welcome letter to launch the 5th APAVM Chapter Visit to Malta, the Vatican and Rome. True to his word, what awaited us was beauty beyond compare – and a truly privileged, awe-inspiring and unforgettable experience that exceeded all expectations. Without exaggerating, it was a trip “that beat them all.”

The 26 September 2024 was a beautiful day in Naples with warm weather, bright sunshine and azure skies. By the Gulf of Naples stood the historic Grand Hotel Veusvio, where gathered within were 30 Asian patrons. This was the 7th Asian patrons’ trip since the inception of APAVM. Previous trips must have made a deep impression as half of them were repeat participants.

Exclusive private tour of St. John’s Cathedral, an experiential off-site to amazing and ancient Ostia Antica, and VIP seating at Pope Francis General Audience at St. Peter’s Square