How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
The reason our religion has penetrated this territory like water flowing into dry earth is that it has given to this group of people a human warmth they never previously knew. (3.4)
This makes sense: it's not like we meet any wealthy or powerful Japanese Christians in the novel. These poor villagers live a life defined by suffering, with the inhospitable natural world on one side and an overbearing authoritarian government on the other. That's a tight squeeze by any measure, so it's no wonder that these folk are so eager for some spiritual relief.
Quote #2
They cannot register on their faces any sorrow—not even joy. The long history of secrecy have made the faces of these Christians like masks. (3.13)
We're willing to bet that this is due to more than just secrecy. After enduring such hardships day in and day out—with little or no hope of relief—these poor villagers seem to struggle to comprehend their own emotions. After witnessing what they go through, we can't blame them.
Quote #3
It was embarrassing to think of our weakness in comparison with the courage of these Japanese peasants who [...] lacerated their feet in order to come to us. (3.71)
Now that's commitment. In many ways, Rodrigues is envious of the Japanese Christians—they handle suffering in a way he never could. But the truth is that these folks don't have a choice: they're born into suffering and will likely die in it. We're sure they'd rather grow up as wealthy young priests in Portugal, but it's all just a roll of the dice.