Saint Vihn Son Ðo Yen

Biography

Saint Vihn Son Ðo Yen, also known as Vincent Do Yen or Vincenzo Do Yen, was born around 1764 in Trà Lu, Nam Ðinh, Vietnam, into a devout Christian family. He grew up in a time when Catholicism faced intense persecution in Vietnam but remained steadfast in his faith. In 1798, he was ordained by Blessed Ignatius Delgado in the vicariate apostolic of Eastern Tonkin (modern Vietnam). The government's persecution of Christians intensified in 1799, and Father Vincent was imprisoned as a result. However, his friends were able to ransom him out of captivity, demonstrating the deep respect and love the community had for him. This experience reinforced his commitment to serving God and his fellow believers. On July 22, 1808, Father Vincent Do Yen joined the Dominican Order in Manila, Philippines. Known for his personal piety and forgiveness, he dedicated himself to the service of God and the Church. He returned to Vietnam, where he became the parish priest in Ke Sat, ministering to the faithful in a time of tremendous tribulation. In 1832, during the persecutions under Emperor Minh Mang, the parishioners of Ke Sat were ordered to destroy their church. Despite the hardships they faced, Father Vincent provided spiritual guidance and support, ensuring that the faith of the local community endured. As the persecutions escalated in February 1838, Father Vincent Do Yen was arrested for his unwavering commitment to Catholicism. However, facing his impending martyrdom, he remained resolute and steadfast. He was beheaded on June 30, 1838, in Hai Duong, Vietnam, for refusing to renounce his faith in Christ. Saint Vihn Son Ðo Yen's body was buried under the floor of the destroyed Tho Ninh church in Vietnam, a testament to the cruelty of the persecutions endured by Catholics in the country. Recognizing his martyrdom, Pope Leo XIII solemnly venerated him on July 2, 1899, with a decree of martyrdom. On May 27, 1900, Pope Leo XIII beatified him, acknowledging his heroic virtue and sacrifice for the faith. Finally, on June 19, 1988, Pope John Paul II canonized Saint Vihn Son Ðo Yen, recognizing him as a fully fledged Catholic saint. While he does not have a known patronage, his life serves as an inspiration for all believers, especially those facing religious persecution and hardship. Saint Vihn Son Ðo Yen's legacy continues to inspire Catholics around the world to maintain their faith and trust in God, no matter the challenges they face.