Blessed Andrew The Catechist

Biography

Blessed Andrew The Catechist, also known as Andrew of Phu√π Yeân or Anr√™ of Ph√∫ Y√™n, was born in 1625 in Ran Ran, Ph√∫ Y√™n, in what is now modern Vietnam. He was the son of a devoutly Christian mother who instilled in him a strong faith from a young age. At the age of 15, Andrew was baptized by Jesuit missionary Father Alexandre de Rhodes, who played a significant role in the spread of Catholicism in Vietnam.

Inspired by his mother's deep faith and the teaching of Father de Rhodes, Andrew dedicated his life to serving the Church. Just a year after his baptism, at the age of 16, he became a catechist. Andrew, along with other catechists, made a solemn vow in 1643 to faithfully serve the Church for the rest of his life, even in the face of great opposition.

Unfortunately, their commitment to the Catholic faith soon led them into trouble. The king of Vietnam at that time had ordered a halt to Christianity and prohibited natives from converting to the religion. In 1644, Andrew was arrested and severely beaten for his role as a catechist.

During his imprisonment, Andrew was approached by Mandarin Ong Nghe Bo, who offered him freedom on the condition that he renounce his faith. However, Andrew remained steadfast in his devotion to Catholicism and refused to renounce his beliefs.

As a result of his unwavering faith, Andrew was condemned to death on July 26, 1644. He was executed the following day, becoming the first Vietnamese martyr for the Catholic faith.

Father Alexandre de Rhodes, who had baptized Andrew, managed to retrieve his body after the execution. He arranged for the body to be transported to Macao for burial. However, during the journey, the transport ship was attacked by pirates, and it struck a rock, causing a hole in the hull. Miraculously, a large stone rolled into the gap, preventing the ship from sinking, and it was able to deliver Andrew's body to Macao for a proper burial.

Blessed Andrew The Catechist is venerated as a martyr by the Catholic Church. Pope John Paul II recognized his martyrdom on January 27, 2000, through a decree. Subsequently, he was beatified by Pope John Paul II on March 5, 2000.

The life of Blessed Andrew The Catechist serves as an inspiring example of unwavering faith and commitment to the Catholic Church, even in the face of intense persecution and opposition. His legacy continues to inspire Catholics around the world, particularly in Vietnam, where his memory is cherished.