Saint Pierre Philibert Maubant

Biography

Saint Pierre Philibert Maubant, also known as Peter Maubant, was born on 20 September 1803 in Vassy, Calvados, France. He was ordained a priest in the Diocese of Bayeux in 1829 and soon after joined the Foreign Missionary Society of Paris. In 1836, Saint Pierre Maubant embarked on a missionary journey to Korea, arriving on 12 January. Alongside fellow missionaries Saint Lawrence Imbert, Saint Jacques Chastain, and Saint Paul Chong Hasang, he dedicated himself to proclaiming the Gospel and spreading the message of Christianity in a country where the faith faced severe persecution. The mission in Korea was a challenging one, as the government imposed strict laws against Christianity and sought to suppress its growth. However, undeterred by the dangers and difficulties ahead, Saint Pierre Maubant worked diligently, ministering to covert Christians and encouraging them in their faith during a period of great adversity. For two years, Saint Pierre Maubant dedicated his efforts to the secret spread of Christianity in Korea. His tireless work was instrumental in the spiritual nourishment and support of the persecuted believers, providing them with the sacraments, instruction, and guidance they needed to sustain their faith. Sadly, on 6 September 1839, Saint Pierre Maubant's missionary activities were discovered by the authorities. He was arrested for the crime of spreading Christianity and was subsequently executed for his unwavering dedication to the faith on 21 September 1839. Recognizing his sacrifice and martyrdom, Saint Pierre Philibert Maubant was venerated by Pope Pius XI on 9 May 1925, who issued a decree of martyrdom. On 5 July 1925, Pope Pius XI beatified him, acknowledging his heroic virtue and offering him as a model of holiness for the faithful. Finally, on 6 May 1984, in a historic ceremony held in Seoul, South Korea, Pope John Paul II canonized Saint Pierre Philibert Maubant along with other Korean martyrs. Their canonization was a testament to the immense courage and enduring faith of these holy men and women who remained steadfast in their commitment to Christ, even in the face of persecution and martyrdom. Although there is no specific representation attributed to Saint Pierre Philibert Maubant, his life and sacrifice serve as an inspiration for all believers, highlighting the courage and dedication required to live out the Gospel message. Although he does not have a specific patronage, he can be invoked as a powerful intercessor for all those facing religious persecution and those seeking inner strength in times of adversity.