Saint Matthêô Nguyen Van Ðac Phuong

Biography

Saint Matthêô Nguyen Van Ðac Phuong, also known as Matteo Nguyen Van Phuong and Matthew Nguyen Van Phuong, was a married layman catechist in the apostolic vicariate of North Cochinchina. He was born around 1808 in Ke Lái, Quang Bình, Vietnam. Although little is known about his early life, it is believed that Matthêô Nguyen Van Ðac Phuong was a devoted Catholic who dedicated himself to spreading the faith and teaching catechism to others. Despite being a layman, he played a significant role in the growth of the Catholic Church in Vietnam during a time of intense persecution. During the reign of emperor Tu-Duc, who was known for his hostility towards Christianity, Christians faced immense hardships and were subjected to brutal tortures and martyrdom. Despite the dangers associated with practicing their faith, Matthêô Nguyen Van Ðac Phuong remained steadfast in his devotion to Catholicism and continued to spread the teachings of Jesus Christ. The exact details of his martyrdom are not well-documented, but it is believed that he was captured and tortured for his refusal to renounce Christianity. He remained true to his faith until the end and was ultimately beheaded on 26 May 1861, near Ðong Hoi, Quang Bình, Vietnam. His courage and unwavering commitment to Catholicism exemplified the strength of the Vietnamese Martyrs during this challenging time. Saint Matthêô Nguyen Van Ðac Phuong was recognized for his heroic witness to the Christian faith and was venerated on 2 August 1908 by Pope Pius X, who decreed his martyrdom. He was beatified by the same pope on 2 May 1909, acknowledging his sanctity and the sacrifice he made for his beliefs. Finally, on 19 June 1988, Pope John Paul II canonized Saint Matthêô Nguyen Van Ðac Phuong, alongside the other Martyrs of Vietnam, in a solemn ceremony that recognized their collective martyrdom and their enduring influence on the Catholic Church in Vietnam. Although Saint Matthêô Nguyen Van Ðac Phuong's specific patronage is not recorded, he remains a powerful intercessor and a shining example of courage and faith for all Catholics. His feast days are celebrated on 25 May and 24 November, as one of the Martyrs of Vietnam. His life serves as a reminder of the enduring strength of the Catholic Church and the unwavering commitment of its followers, even in the face of extreme persecution.