Saint Vicente Shiwozuka De La Cruz

Biography

Saint Ðaminh Nguyen Van Hanh, also known as Dominic or Domenico, was a Vietnamese Dominican priest and martyr. He was born in 1772 in Nang A, Nghe An, Vietnam, during a time when Catholicism was spreading rapidly throughout the country. Joining the Dominican Order, Ðaminh Nguyen Van Hanh dedicated his life to serving God and spreading the Gospel. As a dedicated servant of God, Ðaminh Nguyen Van Hanh exemplified the virtues of faith, piety, and devotion. He was known for his deep prayer life and his commitment to the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist. He spent long hours in adoration before the Blessed Sacrament, drawing strength and grace from his encounters with Christ. During this period in Vietnam's history, Catholicism faced significant persecution. Despite the dangers, Ðaminh Nguyen Van Hanh fearlessly carried out his pastoral duties. He provided spiritual guidance to the faithful, celebrated Mass, administered the sacraments, and preached the word of God. His steadfastness and courage in the face of adversity inspired many to remain faithful in their own Christian journey. On 1 August 1838, Ðaminh Nguyen Van Hanh's unwavering commitment to his faith led to his martyrdom. He was beheaded in Ba Tòa, Nam Ðinh, Vietnam, by those who sought to extinguish the spread of Catholicism in the region. His martyrdom symbolized his ultimate sacrifice for Christ and the Church, and his unwavering faith in the face of persecution. Recognizing the heroic virtues and sacrificial death of Ðaminh Nguyen Van Hanh, Pope Leo XIII declared him venerable on 2 July 1899, with a decree of martyrdom. Subsequently, on 27 May 1900, Pope Leo XIII beatified him, acknowledging his martyrdom and his profound impact on the Catholic faithful in Vietnam. Finally, on 19 June 1988, Pope John Paul II canonized Ðaminh Nguyen Van Hanh, officially recognizing him as a saint of the Catholic Church. His canonization further emphasized his exemplary life of faith and the timeless inspiration he provides to believers around the world. Though the specific patronage of Saint Ðaminh Nguyen Van Hanh is not established, his life and martyrdom continue to inspire countless Catholics in Vietnam and beyond. His unwavering love for God and his willingness to lay down his life for his faith serve as a testament to the power of faith and the courage it can instill in individuals facing persecution. Saint Ðaminh Nguyen Van Hanh's feast days are commemorated on 1 August and 24 November, alongside the Martyrs of Vietnam, as a collective tribute to the courageous men and women who gave their lives for their faith in Vietnam. His life and martyrdom remain an integral part of the rich Catholic history and heritage in Vietnam, serving as a reminder of the enduring power of faith in the face of adversity.