Saint Phêrô Vu Van Truat

Biography

Saint Phêrô Vu Van Truat, also known as Peter Truat, was a young layman catechist who lived in the apostolic vicariate of West Tonkin, which is now part of modern Vietnam. He was born around 1816 in Ke Thiec, Hà Nam, Vietnam. Not much is known about his early life, but it is believed that he received a strong Catholic upbringing and had a deep faith from a young age. During this time, Catholicism faced persecution in Vietnam, as the local authorities viewed it as a threat to their power and influence. Despite the risks involved, Phêrô Vu Van Truat actively engaged in spreading the Catholic faith and catechizing the local population. He fervently dedicated himself to instructing others in the teachings of the Church and leading them closer to God. His dedication and zeal made him a beloved figure in his community. Sadly, the path of Saint Phêrô Vu Van Truat was marked by martyrdom. On 18 December 1838, he was captured by the authorities and brutally strangled to death in Son Tây, Ha Tay, Vietnam. His death was a testament to his unwavering faith and his commitment to the Catholic Church even in the face of persecution. The heroic virtue and sacrificial death of Phêrô Vu Van Truat did not go unnoticed. On 2 July 1899, Pope Leo XIII decreed his martyrdom, officially recognizing his status as a martyr for the faith. A year later, on 27 May 1900, Pope Leo XIII beatified him, acknowledging his exemplary life and death as an inspiration to Catholics worldwide. Finally, on 19 June 1988, Pope John Paul II canonized Saint Phêrô Vu Van Truat, affirming his sanctity and elevating him to the status of a Catholic saint. His canonization highlights his exceptional holiness and the significance of his sacrifice for the Catholic Church in Vietnam. While there is no specific patronage associated with Saint Phêrô Vu Van Truat, his life serves as a shining example of bravery, commitment to one's faith, and dedication to spreading the Word of God. His feast day is celebrated on both 18 December as an individual commemoration and 24 November as part of the Martyrs of Vietnam feast day, honoring all those who sacrificed their lives for their Catholic beliefs. Saint Phêrô Vu Van Truat's story remains an inspiration for generations to come, reminding us of the power of faith, the strength of conviction, and the courage to stand up for what we believe in, even in the face of adversity.