Saint Phêrô Khan

Biography

Saint Phêrô Khan was a devout Catholic priest who lived in the apostolic vicariate of West Tonkin, which is present-day Vietnam. He was born around 1780 in Hòa Hue, Nghe An, Vietnam, and dedicated his life to serving God and spreading the message of Christianity. Father Phêrô was actively involved in his local community, ministering to the spiritual needs of the faithful and leading them in their religious practices. He was known for his profound faith, humility, and dedication to the Church. However, his steadfast devotion to Catholicism would eventually lead to his martyrdom. During the persecutions of Thieu Tri, which was a period of intense anti-Christian sentiment in Vietnam, Father Phêrô faced immense challenges and dangers. He valiantly endured persecution and was imprisoned for six months due to his unwavering faith and refusal to renounce his beliefs. Despite facing constant threats and orders to renounce his Catholic faith, Father Phêrô steadfastly refused to deny Christ and remained loyal to his calling as a priest. He saw his sufferings as a means to unite himself with the sufferings of Christ and to give witness to the truth of the Gospel. On July 12, 1842, in Hà Tinh, Vietnam, Father Phêrô Khan was tragically beheaded for his faith. His courageous stance and ultimate sacrifice earned him the title of martyr, as he willingly laid down his life rather than betray his deeply held convictions. The heroic faith and martyrdom of Father Phêrô Khan did not go unnoticed by the Church. On August 2, 1908, Pope Pius X recognized his martyrdom with a decree of martyrdom and declared him venerable. Further, on May 2, 1909, Pope Pius X officially beatified Father Phêrô Khan, recognizing him as Blessed. Finally, on June 19, 1988, Pope John Paul II canonized Father Phêrô Khan, joyously declaring him a saint of the Catholic Church. His canonization was an acknowledgment of his virtuous life, his unwavering commitment to his faith, and his tremendous witness to Christ's teachings. Although there is limited information available about Saint Phêrô Khan's life and specific patronages, his example as a faithful and courageous priest and martyr inspires believers to this day. His feast days are celebrated on July 12 and November 24, as one of the Martyrs of Vietnam, reminding the faithful of his sanctity and encouraging them to follow his example of unwavering devotion to Christ.