π Life Timeline
1785
Born in 1785 AD, Vietnam
1785
Born 1785 in Nam Dong, Tonkin (Vietnam)
1833
in Nam Dong, Tonkin (Vietnam)
1833
in Nam Dong, Tonkin (Vietnam)
1840
During the persecution of Emperor Minh Mang (1833-1840), he continued to minister secretly to Vietnamese Catholicsβbapti
1839
confirming, and hearing confessions
1839
Died β November 21, 1839 AD, Thu Bon River, Vietnam (beheaded)
1988
Canonized β 1988 by Pope John Paul II
β Biography
Born 1785 in Nam Dong, Tonkin (Vietnam). Ordained priest in 1833. During the persecution of Emperor Minh Mang (1833-1840), he continued to minister secretly to Vietnamese Catholicsβbaptizing, confirming, and hearing confessions. Arrested in 1839, imprisoned for years in Hanoi, then transferred to Hue. Tortured repeatedlyβiron rings through his cheeks, boiling oil poured on his feet, and burial up to his neck. Maintained his faith and encouraged fellow prisoners. Executed by decapitation on Apr 21, 1839 at age 54. One of 11 Vietnamese martyrs canonized in 1988 by John Paul II. Patron of Vietnamese missionaries.
π‘ Patronage
Patron of: Vietnamese Catholics, priests, and those who suffer persecution for the faith.
π¬ Words of the Saint
I am not afraid to die.
π Key Facts
Born
1785 AD, Vietnam
Died
November 21, 1839 AD, Thu Bon River, Vietnam (beheaded)
Feast Day
Nov 24
Canonized
1988 by Pope John Paul II
π Legacy
The 117 Vietnamese Martyrs are the largest group canonized by John Paul II. Their blood planted the Catholic Church in Vietnam, which now has 7 million Catholics. Andrew Dung Lac is their most prominent representative.
π Personal Writings
Read excerpts from the saint's own words β their personal letters, spiritual writings, and teachings.
π Testimony
On Martyrdom in Vietnam
I am ready to die for Christ. I have no fear of death, for death is the gateway to eternal life. I have no fear of suffering, for suffering is the path to glory. I have no fear of the world, for the world is passing away. I have only fear of losing the love of God.
β St. Andrew Dung Lac