Saint Ðaminh Toai

Biography

Saint Ðaminh Toai, also known as Dominic, was a married layman living in the apostolic vicariate of Central Tonkin, which is in modern-day Vietnam. He was a fisherman by trade and a devout Catholic. As a father, he worked hard to provide for his family and to live out his faith in everyday life. During the period of the persecutions under Emperor Tu Duc, Ðaminh Toai found himself imprisoned and subjected to torture due to his unwavering commitment to his Catholic faith. Despite the hardships he endured, he remained steadfast and unyielding in his beliefs. While in prison, Ðaminh Toai not only persevered in his own faith but also took on the role of encouraging and supporting other prisoners to remain true to their beliefs. His unwavering faith served as a source of inspiration to those around him, strengthening their resolve in the face of adversity. On June 5, 1862, in Nam Ðinh, Vietnam, Ðaminh Toai was cruelly and unjustly burned alive for his refusal to renounce his Catholic faith. He embraced martyrdom, remaining faithful until the very end. Recognizing his courageous witness and dedication to the Catholic Church, Pope Pius XII issued a decree of martyrdom on February 11, 1951, officially recognizing Ðaminh Toai's status as a martyr. Just a few months later, on April 29, 1951, Pope Pius XII beatified him, acknowledging his virtuous life and ultimate sacrifice. Finally, on June 19, 1988, Pope John Paul II canonized Saint Ðaminh Toai, elevating him to the rank of a Catholic saint. His canonization further affirmed Ðaminh Toai's deep faith, heroic virtue, and enduring legacy. While Saint Ðaminh Toai does not have a particular patronage associated with him, his life serves as a powerful example of unwavering faith and commitment to the Catholic Church. His story continues to inspire believers to remain steadfast in their own faith, even in the face of persecution or adversity. Saint Ðaminh Toai's feast days are celebrated on June 5th and November 24th, as part of the collective feast days of the Martyrs of Vietnam.