Saint Phêrô Dung

Biography

Saint Phêrô Dung, also known as Peter, was a married layman born around 1800 in Ðông Hào, Thái Bình, Vietnam. He lived in the apostolic vicariate of Central Tonkin, which is in modern-day Vietnam. By trade, Saint Phêrô Dung worked as a fisherman, providing for his family and his community. During the period of persecutions under Emperor Tu Duc, Christians were targeted and ordered to renounce their faith. Saint Phêrô Dung faced a particularly challenging test when he was commanded to stomp on a cross as a symbol of his contempt for Christianity. Despite the threat of severe consequences, he bravely refused to comply, demonstrating his unwavering faith and devotion to Christ. Saint Phêrô Dung's steadfast refusal to deny his beliefs led to his arrest and subsequent martyrdom. On the fateful day of June 6, 1862, he was burned at the stake in Nam Ðinh, Vietnam, alongside many other Vietnamese Christians who courageously stood firm in their faith. Recognizing the sacrifice and unwavering faith of Saint Phêrô Dung, Pope Pius XII declared him venerable on February 11, 1951, through a decree of martyrdom. Shortly after, on April 29, 1951, Pope Pius XII beatified him, acknowledging his exemplary life and martyrdom as a testament to the Christian faith. Finally, on June 19, 1988, Saint Phêrô Dung was canonized by Pope John Paul II, affirming his status as a saint of the Catholic Church. His canonization signifies his holiness and the recognition of his intercession and inspiration for believers around the world. Although specific patronages for Saint Phêrô Dung are not recorded, he continues to be venerated and honored for his martyrdom and witness to the Christian faith. His feast days are celebrated on June 6 and November 24 as part of the collective feast days of the Martyrs of Vietnam. Saint Phêrô Dung's life and bravery serve as an inspiration for all Christians, reminding us of the importance of remaining faithful to our beliefs, even in the face of adversity.