Saint Elisabeth Qin Bianshi

Biography

Saint Elisabeth Qin Bianshi, also known as Lisa, was a married lay woman who lived in the apostolic vicariate of Southeastern Zhili in China during the 19th century. She was born around 1846 in Nanpeiluo, Renqiu, Hebei, China. Elisabeth Qin Bianshi was a devout Catholic who lived a life of faith and devotion, committed to following the teachings of the Church. She grew up in a time of great turmoil and challenges for the Catholic Church in China, as it faced persecution and hostility from various factions. Elisabeth was married and had a son, Saint Simon Qin Chunfu, who would later also become a revered saint. Together with her husband and son, Elisabeth experienced the trials and tribulations of being a Catholic during a time of intense persecution. In the late 19th century, China was swept by the Boxer Rebellion, a violent uprising against foreign influence and Christianity. Elisabeth and her family found themselves at the center of this conflict, facing persecution and danger because of their beliefs. Despite the risks involved, Elisabeth remained steadfast in her faith and refused to renounce her Catholicism. She and her family were targeted by the Boxers due to their association with the Catholic Church. They faced hardships, threats, and violence, but they remained resolute in their commitment to Christ. Tragically, on July 19, 1900, Elisabeth Qin Bianshi was martyred along with her family in Liucun, Renqiu, Hebei, China. They were among the countless victims who lost their lives during the Boxer Rebellion because of their Catholic faith. Recognizing the heroism and sanctity of Elisabeth and her family, Pope Pius XII declared them as martyrs on February 22, 1955. Their courageous witness to the Catholic faith in the face of persecution and martyrdom serves as an inspiration to believers around the world. On April 17, 1955, Pope Pius XII further honored Elisabeth and her family by beatifying them, acknowledging their exceptional virtue and sacrifice. Finally, on October 1, 2000, Pope John Paul II canonized Saint Elisabeth Qin Bianshi and her family, officially recognizing them as saints within the Catholic Church. Saint Elisabeth Qin Bianshi, along with her husband and son, are celebrated and venerated on July 19 and September 28, as they are also recognized as Martyrs of China. Their selfless dedication to their faith and their ultimate sacrifice reminds us of the importance of courage and unwavering commitment to God, even in the face of great danger. As a saint, Elisabeth Qin Bianshi continues to inspire and intercede for those who seek her guidance and protection.