Saint Francis Serrano

Biography

Saint Pere Josep Almató Ribera Auras, also known as Pedro Ribera, was a devout Dominican priest who was martyred during the persecutions of Emperor Tu-Duc in Vietnam. He was born on November 1, 1830, in San Feliú Saserra, Barcelona, Spain. As a young man, Pere Josep showed great piety and a deep desire to serve God. He joined the Dominican Order and was ordained a priest, dedicating himself to a life of prayer, study, and ministering to the faithful. His zeal for spreading the Gospel led him to volunteer for a mission in Vietnam, despite being aware of the dangers and hardships he might face. In Vietnam, Pere Josep worked tirelessly to strengthen the faith of the local Catholic community and to bring more people to Christ. He fearlessly preached the Gospel and administered the sacraments, even under the watchful eye of the authorities who sought to eradicate Christianity from the country. Emperor Tu-Duc, who was vehemently opposed to the spread of Christianity, issued a series of decrees targeting Catholic priests and believers. Pere Josep, firmly committed to his calling, continued his mission despite the imminent danger he faced. Unfortunately, on November 1, 1861, Pere Josep's dedication to his faith led to his arrest by the emperor's forces. He was subjected to severe torture, yet he did not renounce his beliefs. Despite the unimaginable pain inflicted upon him, Pere Josep remained steadfast and resolute in his commitment to Christ. Finally, on that same day, Pere Josep was cruelly beheaded in the town of Hai Duong, Vietnam. His martyrdom was a testament to his unwavering faith and courage in the face of persecution. After his death, the memory of Pere Josep lived on, and he was venerated as a saintly figure. His virtuous life and martyrdom were officially recognized on June 24, 1905, when Pope Saint Pius X declared him venerable. Then, on May 20, 1906, Pope Saint Pius X beatified him, acknowledging the sanctity of his life and his sacrifice for the sake of his faith. Finally, on June 19, 1988, Pere Josep was canonized a saint by Pope John Paul II. Today, he is honored and venerated as a true martyr and a shining example of courage and fidelity to the Catholic faith. While Saint Pere Josep Almató Ribera Auras does not have a specific patronage attributed to him, his life and martyrdom serve as an inspiration to all believers, particularly those facing persecution or struggling to keep their faith in trying times. His feast day is commemorated on November 1 and again on November 24 as one of the Martyrs of Vietnam.