Saint Yangzhi Lang

Biography

Saint Yangzhi Lang, also known as Lang-Yang-Cheu, was a lay woman who lived in the apostolic vicariate of Southeastern Zhili, China, during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. She was born around 1871 in Lu, Qinghe, Hebei, China, and grew up in a society deeply rooted in Chinese traditions and beliefs. Yangzhi Lang's life took a significant turn when she married a Christian man and converted to Christianity herself. She became a catechumen, undergoing religious instruction and preparation for baptism, and embraced the teachings of the Catholic Church. Her conversion radically transformed her values and worldview, leading her to become a shining example of Christian charity in her community. Known for her kind-heartedness and selflessness, Yangzhi Lang dedicated herself to helping those in need. She displayed a deep compassion for the poor, the sick, and the marginalized, going out of her way to offer assistance and support. Her acts of charity were seen as a reflection of her faith and a testament to the love and compassion she found in Christ. Even amidst the challenges and dangers faced by the Catholic community in China during the Boxer Rebellion, Yangzhi Lang never faltered in her commitment to her newfound faith. She courageously lived out her Christian beliefs, even as the anti-Christian persecutions intensified. Tragically, in the midst of the Boxer Rebellion, Saint Yangzhi Lang met a martyr's fate. On July 16, 1900, she was tied to an ash tree and ruthlessly stabbed with spears by her assailants. The killers then set her house on fire, with her body still inside. Despite the devastation caused by the anti-Christian violence, Yangzhi Lang's husband managed to recover her remains from the burnt ruins of their home and laid her to rest nearby. The incredible faith and commitment to Christ that Yangzhi Lang exhibited in life did not go unnoticed. On February 22, 1955, Pope Pius XII declared her venerable, recognizing her heroic virtue and martyrdom. Just a few months later, on April 17, 1955, Pope Pius XII beatified her, granting her the title of Blessed. Finally, recognizing her enduring sanctity and the powerful witness she provided to the faith, Pope John Paul II canonized Saint Yangzhi Lang on October 1, 2000. She was included among the Martyrs of China, who bravely suffered and died for their Christian faith. While the details of Saint Yangzhi Lang's patronage remain unknown, her life and martyrdom continue to inspire Christians around the world. She serves as a model of faith, courage, and charity, reminding us of the importance of living our beliefs even in the face of adversity.