Saint Giuse Ðang Van Viên

Biography

Saint Giuse Ðang Van Viên, also known as Giuseppe Đặng Văn Viên, was born in Tiên Chu, Hung Yên, Vietnam around the year 1787. He dedicated his life to the service of God and became a priest in the Apostolic Vicariate of East Tonkin, a region in Vietnam. Known for his unwavering faith and commitment to spreading the teachings of the Catholic Church, Saint Giuse Ðang Van Viên became one of the martyrs of Vietnam.

During a period of religious persecution in Vietnam, Saint Giuse Ðang Van Viên faced immense challenges and danger. Despite the risks involved, he fearlessly continued to practice and propagate the Catholic faith in his community. The authorities were opposed to the spread of Catholicism and targeted those who professed the faith, including priests like Saint Giuse Ðang Van Viên.

On August 21, 1838, Saint Giuse Ðang Van Viên met a tragic fate when he was beheaded in Bay Mau, Hanoi, Vietnam. His martyrdom serves as a testament to his steadfast devotion to Christ and his unwavering commitment to the Catholic Church.

Saint Giuse Ðang Van Viên was venerated by the Catholic Church on July 2, 1899, when Pope Leo XIII declared him a martyr. His courageous sacrifice and strong faith inspired many, leading to his beatification on May 27, 1900, by the same pontiff. Finally, on June 19, 1988, Pope John Paul II canonized Saint Giuse Ðang Van Viên, recognizing his status as a saint within the Catholic Church.

As a martyr of Vietnam, Saint Giuse Ðang Van Viên's life commemorates the many sacrifices made by Catholics in Vietnam during a difficult and challenging period. His feast day is celebrated on August 21, and he is also honored on November 24 as one of the Martyrs of Vietnam.

Saint Giuse Ðang Van Viên's unwavering faith and courage in the face of persecution continue to inspire Catholics around the world. His life serves as a shining example of devotion and dedication to the Catholic Church, reminding us of the sacrifices made by those who have gone before us.