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Feast Day: December 19
Saint Stêphanô Nguyen Van Vinh, also known as Stephen Nguyen Van Vinh, was a devout layman farmer who lived in the apostolic vicariate of East Tonkin, in what is now modern-day Vietnam. He was born around the year 1813 in Phú Trang, Nam Ðanh, Vietnam. Although details about his early life are scarce, it is known that Stêphanô Nguyen Van Vinh had a profound conversion to the Catholic faith. He became a devoted Catholic and a member of the Dominican tertiary, a lay association affiliated with the Dominican Order. During the 19th century, Vietnam experienced intense persecution of Catholics under the rule of Emperor Minh Mang. Stêphanô Nguyen Van Vinh, along with many other faithful Catholics, became a target of these anti-Christian campaigns. Despite the growing opposition, he remained steadfast in his faith. As a result of his unwavering commitment to Catholicism, Stêphanô Nguyen Van Vinh faced imprisonment, torture, and eventually, martyrdom. He endured immense suffering for his refusal to renounce his beliefs and maintained his loyalty to God until the end. The exact details surrounding his execution are not known, but it is believed that Stêphanô Nguyen Van Vinh faced a brutal death for his faith. His courageous witness to the Gospel and his steadfastness in the face of adversity made a lasting impact on the Catholic community in Vietnam. Stêphanô Nguyen Van Vinh was venerated for his martyrdom on July 2, 1899, when Pope Leo XIII issued a decree acknowledging his sacrifice. Later, on May 27, 1900, Pope Leo XIII beatified him, recognizing his extraordinary virtue and martyrdom. Finally, on June 19, 1988, Pope John Paul II canonized Stêphanô Nguyen Van Vinh, affirming his holiness and officially declaring him a saint of the Catholic Church. His feast day is celebrated on December 19. Additionally, he is honored on November 24 alongside the other Vietnamese Martyrs. Although no specific patronage has been assigned to Saint Stêphanô Nguyen Van Vinh, he serves as an inspiring model of faith, resilience, and courage for Catholics in Vietnam and beyond. His life and witness stand as a testament to the enduring value of Christian faith even in the face of severe persecution.