Saint Rémi Isoré

Biography

Saint Rémi Isoré, also known as Rémigius Isoré, was born on January 22, 1852 in Bambeque, France. He came from a devout Catholic family, with his father being a primary school teacher. From a young age, Rémi felt a strong calling to the priesthood. This calling was further reinforced by the religious pursuits of his siblings, as one of his brothers became a priest and one of his sisters joined the Daughters of Saint Vincent de Paul. In pursuit of his vocation, Rémi entered Saint Francis School in 1865 at the age of 13. He continued his studies at the seminary in Cambrai, France, where he further deepened his knowledge and spiritual formation. After completing his studies, he began teaching primary school in Roubaix, France in 1873 at the age of 21. In 1876, at the age of 24, Rémi joined the Jesuit novitiate at Saint Acheul. He quickly showcased his academic and teaching abilities and was assigned to teach high school at La Providence. However, beginning in 1881, Rémi felt a strong call to missionary work and expressed his desire to serve in China. In response to his calling, Rémi was assigned to work as a missionary in Xian, Hebei, China. He arrived in Xian in 1882 and spent a year diligently learning the Chinese language and customs to best serve the local population. On July 31, 1886, Rémi was ordained as a priest at the Xian Cathedral. Following his ordination, Rémi dedicated himself to teaching at the public school in Zhangjiazhuang. He later served as the dean of the school at Guangpingfu. Throughout his time in China, Rémi tirelessly worked to spread the message of Christ and promote Catholic education among the Chinese people. As the Boxer Rebellion swept through China, Rémi found himself at the forefront of the violence and persecution targeting Catholics. Despite the dangers, he remained steadfast in his faith and continued to offer spiritual guidance and support to the Catholic community. Sadly, on June 19, 1900, while praying at the altar, Rémi was martyred in Wuyi, Hebei, China. His head was hung outside the village as a warning to other Catholics. Saint Rémi Isoré is honored as one of the Martyrs of China. His selfless dedication to his faith, his unwavering commitment to education, and his ultimate sacrifice for the Catholic faith have earned him reverence as a saint. Pope Pius XII recognized his martyrdom on February 22, 1955, with a decree of martyrdom. On April 17, 1955, he was beatified by Pope Pius XII, and on October 1, 2000, he was canonized by Pope John Paul II. Saint Rémi Isoré's life and example continue to inspire Catholics around the world, especially those engaged in missionary work and education, to follow his footsteps of selflessness, devotion, and courage in spreading the love of God.