The Korean Martyrs

We celebrate the memorial of the Korean Martyrs which took place during the persecutions of 1839, 1846, 1866, and 1867. At this time, 103 Christians in Korea gave their lives as martyrs. Those included, Father Andrew Kim Taegon and the lay apostle, Paul Chong Hasang. There were also bishops, priests, and many of the laity who gave their lives for the sake of Christ and the sake of the Church. As Saint Andrew Kim Taegon said in his final exhortation, "I urge you to remain steadfast in faith, so that at last we will all reach heaven and there rejoice together" (Magnificat, 273-74). That quote truly says it all because the focus of our minds, hearts, and souls should be on the prize that is eternal life in heaven. Our common goal is to get to heaven and we look forward to that day with joyful hope and great anticipation. We want to be united with Our Lord, all the holy men and women who have gone before us, and our loved ones. We need to remain firm in our faith and live holy, prayerful, and dedicated lives. May the Korean martyrs intercede for us and help us in all that we do for the glory of God and the good of the church. God Bless You!!!