Saint Agnes De

Biography

Saint Agnes De, also known as Anê Lê Thi Thành or Bà Ðê, was born around 1781 in Ba Den, Tranh Hóa, Vietnam. She was raised in a devout Christian family and grew up practicing her faith. Agnes De entered into a holy marriage as a laywoman in the apostolic vicariate of West Tonkin, in what is now modern Vietnam. She embraced her role as a wife and mother, striving to live a virtuous and pious life. During the time of the persecutions of Thieu Tri, a period of intense anti-Christian sentiment in Vietnam, Agnes De found herself caught in the crosshairs of religious persecution. Despite the dangers and risks involved, she courageously hid and supported a Catholic priest, risking her own safety. Her steadfast commitment to her faith and her courageous acts of shelter and protection were seen as a threat to the authorities who sought to suppress Christianity in the region. The authorities eventually discovered her involvement and imprisoned Agnes De for her perceived crimes. While in prison, she endured severe torture and suffering for her refusal to renounce her faith or betray the priest she was harboring. Agnes De remained steadfast and unwavering in her commitment to Christ, finding solace and strength in her deep faith. On July 12, 1841, after enduring months of imprisonment and torture, Agnes De was ultimately martyred for her refusal to renounce her beliefs. She faced her execution with grace and dignity, embracing her fate as a testament to her unwavering love for Christ and her dedication to the Church. The heroic way in which Agnes De lived her life, facing persecution and martyrdom for her faith, did not go unnoticed. She was venerated on August 2, 1908, by Pope Saint Pius X who issued a decree recognizing her martyrdom. Her cause for beatification was formally opened, and on May 2, 1909, Pope Saint Pius X beatified Agnes De, acknowledging her as Blessed. Finally, on June 19, 1988, Pope John Paul II canonized Agnes De as a saint, recognizing her as an exemplary model of faith and virtue. Although there is no specific patronage attributed to her, Saint Agnes De's life serves as an inspiration to all those who face adversity and persecution for their religious beliefs. Saint Agnes De's story reminds us of the courage and strength it takes to remain steadfast in our faith, even in the face of grave dangers. She has become an inspiration to countless individuals around the world, who look to her life as an example of unwavering commitment and love for Christ.