Saint Maria Du Tianshi

Biography

Saint Maria Du Tianshi, also known as Mali or Du Tianshi Maria, was a lay woman in the apostolic vicariate of Southeastern Zhili, in China. She was born around 1881 in Du, Shenzhou, Hebei, China. Maria was the daughter of Saint Magdalena Du Fengju, who also suffered martyrdom during the Boxer Rebellion. Maria's life was marked by her deep faith and devotion to the Catholic Church. She grew up in a time of great persecution against Christians in China, particularly during the Boxer Rebellion, a violent uprising that targeted foreign influences and sought to eradicate Christianity from the country. Despite the dangers and risks involved, Maria remained steadfast in her commitment to her Christian beliefs. She actively participated in the life of her local Catholic community, attending Mass and engaging in works of charity. Her piety and devotion were an example to those around her, inspiring others to remain strong in their faith amidst persecution. Tragically, the persecution intensified, and Maria fell victim to the violence of the Boxer Rebellion. On June 29, 1900, she was sentenced to a brutal and merciless death - being buried alive. Maria accepted her martyrdom with great courage and faith, remaining steadfast in her belief until the very end. The heroic witness of Maria's martyrdom did not go unnoticed. Her holiness and sacrifice touched the hearts of many. As the years passed, devotion to her grew among the faithful, who saw her as an inspiring model of faith, courage, and devotion. In recognition of her martyrdom, Pope Pius XII proclaimed Maria Du Tianshi venerable on February 22, 1955, issuing a decree of martyrdom. Later that year, on April 17, 1955, Pope Pius XII beatified her, acknowledging her as blessed for her martyrdom and as an intercessor for the faithful. Finally, on October 1, 2000, Pope John Paul II canonized Maria Du Tianshi as a saint, publicly acknowledging her sanctity and officially inscribing her among the champions of faith in the Catholic Church. Although not specifically known as a patron saint for any particular cause or group, Saint Maria Du Tianshi's faith-filled life and martyrdom serve as an inspiration to all Christians, reminding them of the courage and devotion required to remain faithful in the face of persecution or adversity. Her memory continues to be honored and revered, particularly in her native land of China, where her courageous witness serves as a reminder of the indomitable spirit of the Chinese Catholic community.