Feast Day: September 20
Patronage: Korean clergy, the Church in Korea.
Short Biography:
On this day, the Church honors 103 Korean martyrs, led by Saint Andrew Kim Taegon, the first native Korean priest, and Saint Paul Chong Hasang, a dedicated lay catechist. In the early 19th century, Christianity spread quickly in Korea despite severe persecution. Thousands of Catholics were imprisoned, tortured, and killed for their faith.
Saint Andrew Kim Taegon was ordained a priest in 1845 and tirelessly served the faithful, even while under constant threat. Just a year later, at the age of 25, he was captured and beheaded for proclaiming the Gospel. Saint Paul Chong Hasang, a layman, played a key role in organizing the underground Church and bringing missionaries into Korea. Both, together with their companions, bore heroic witness to Christ.
Their sacrifice helped the Church in Korea grow strong, and today South Korea has one of the most vibrant Catholic communities in the world.
Prayer:
O holy martyrs of Korea, especially Saints Andrew Kim Taegon and Paul Chong Hasang, strengthen us in faith, courage, and perseverance. May your witness inspire us to love Christ above all. Amen.
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