Saint Maria Fu Guilin

Biography

Saint Maria Fu Guilin, also known as Mali, was a lay woman who lived in the apostolic vicariate of Southeastern Zhili, China during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. She is best known for her unwavering faith and martyrdom during the Boxer Rebellion. Maria Fu Guilin was born around 1863 in Luopo, Shenzhou, Hebei, China. Little is known about her early life and upbringing, but it is believed that she came from a devout Catholic family. She grew up in a time of great social and political tensions in China, with the spread of anti-Christian sentiment and the rise of the Boxer movement. Mali, as she was affectionately called, embraced her faith from a young age and was known for her deep love for Christ. She devoted herself to education and became a teacher in her local community. Recognizing the importance of education, Mali sought to impart knowledge and values to her students, incorporating Christian teachings and virtues into her lessons. As tensions escalated with the Boxer Rebellion, Christians in China, particularly Catholic missionaries and converts, faced increased persecution. The Boxers, a secret society that opposed foreign influence and Christianity, targeted Catholic communities and sought to eradicate their presence. In the midst of this turmoil, Mali remained steadfast in her faith and refused to renounce Christ. Although aware of the dangers, she continued to publicly practice her faith and pray openly to Jesus. Her devotion and fearlessness in the face of adversity inspired those around her. Tragically, Mali's commitment to her beliefs led to her capture by the pagan persecutors. On July 20, 1900, in Dailucun, Shenzhou, Hebei, China, she was martyred for her faith. She was beheaded for refusing to abandon her devotion to Christ and for openly praying to Him amidst the persecutions. Her martyrdom marked the end of her earthly life, but her legacy lived on. Recognizing her sacrifice and unwavering commitment, Pope Pius XII declared her a martyr on February 22, 1955. The same pope beatified her on April 17, 1955, acknowledging her heroic virtue and the example she set for all Christians. Finally, on October 1, 2000, Pope John Paul II canonized Saint Maria Fu Guilin, officially declaring her a saint of the Catholic Church. Her feast days are celebrated on July 20 and September 28 as part of the Martyrs of China. Saint Maria Fu Guilin, through her life and death, serves as an inspiration to all Christians to remain faithful to their beliefs, even in the face of persecution and adversity. Her bravery, love for Christ, and dedication to education continue to shine as a guiding light for those seeking strength in their faith.