Saint Augustine Moi Van Nguyen

Biography

Saint Augustine Moi Van Nguyen, also known as Augustinô Nguyen Van Moi, was born around 1806 in Phú Trang, Nam Ðinh, Vietnam. He lived as a poor day laborer and was a devout Catholic. He dedicated his life to the faith and became a Lay Dominican tertiary in the apostolic vicariate of East Tonkin. Despite his humble background, Augustine was known for his deep piety and knowledge of the Catholic teachings. He actively served as a catechist, spreading the Gospel and instructing others in the Catholic faith. In 1839, during a time of religious persecution in Vietnam, government authorities targeted Catholics and demanded that they renounce their faith by trampling on a cross. Augustine, however, steadfastly refused to comply with this oppressive demand. He courageously stood firm in his beliefs, even in the face of severe consequences. Due to his refusal to renounce his faith, Augustine was ultimately sentenced to death. He was strangled on an unknown date in 1839, becoming one of the many courageous Martyrs of Vietnam. The recognition of Augustine's martyrdom and his sacrifice for the Catholic faith did not go unnoticed. Pope Leo XIII beatified him on May 27, 1900, acknowledging his heroic virtue and his status as a true inspiration to believers. Later, on June 19, 1988, Pope John Paul II canonized Augustine Moi Van Nguyen as a saint of the Catholic Church. This canonization affirmed his sanctity and provided a model for Catholics to emulate in their own lives. Saint Augustine Moi Van Nguyen's feast day is celebrated on December 19, commemorating his life and martyrdom. Additionally, he is also remembered on November 24 as one of the Martyrs of Vietnam, honoring him alongside other courageous believers who were martyred for their faith. While Saint Augustine Moi Van Nguyen's specific patronage is not known, his life serves as an inspiration for all Catholics, particularly those facing religious persecution and struggling to hold fast to their beliefs. His unwavering faith, humility, and dedication to spreading the Gospel make him a revered figure in the Catholic Church.