Saint Maria An Linghua

Biography

Saint Maria An Linghua, also known as Mali, was a dedicated laywoman in the apostolic vicariate of Southeastern Zhili, China. She was born around 1871 in Anping, Hebei, China, and devoted her life to the Catholic faith. During the Boxer Rebellion, a violent anti-foreign and anti-Christian movement in China, Saint Maria An Linghua remained steadfast in her faith despite the grave dangers it posed. She lived in an era when being a Catholic and openly practicing the faith was met with fierce opposition and persecution. Saint Maria An Linghua's unwavering commitment to her beliefs led her to martyrdom. On 11 July 1900, she was beheaded in Liugongying, Shenzhou, Hebei, China, by those who sought to suppress Christianity. Her sacrifice epitomizes the courage and strength exhibited by countless other martyrs during this tumultuous period in Chinese history. Recognizing her heroic virtue and her ultimate sacrifice, Pope Pius XII decreed the martyrdom of Saint Maria An Linghua on 22 February 1955. Just two months later, on 17 April 1955, she was beatified by this same pontiff. Her beatification ceremony was a testament to her extraordinary faith, martyrdom, and the example she set for all Catholics. Saint Maria An Linghua's journey towards sainthood reached its culmination on 1 October 2000 when she was canonized by Pope John Paul II. This act officially recognized her as a saint of the Catholic Church, acknowledging her holiness, dedication, and her profound impact as a witness to the faith. Although Saint Maria An Linghua's specific patronage remains unknown, her story serves as an inspiration for all Catholics, especially those who face persecution or challenges in practicing their faith. Her life stands as a testament to the courage and strength that can be found in ordinary individuals who choose to live and die for the love of Christ. Saint Maria An Linghua's feast days are celebrated on 11 July, the day of her martyrdom, and 28 September, as she is honored among the Martyrs of China.