Andrew Dung-Lac had been arrested several times and ransomed by his parishioners. He finally told them to stop paying, because he wanted to give his life for Christ. One of the martyrs, St Paul Le-Bao-Tinh, wrote a letter from prison in 1843 describing the beatings and chains. He said that in the middle of torments that would terrify anyone, he was full of joy, because he was not alone: Christ was with him.
Historical Context
A November 24 Prayer
Lord, on the feast of the Vietnamese Martyrs,
we thank you for their courage and their joy in suffering.
Strengthen Christians who are persecuted today,
and bless the Church in Vietnam.
When following you costs me something,
let me remember that, like St Paul Le-Bao-Tinh, I am not alone.
Christ is with me.
Amen.
For Persecuted Christians
Lord, for every Christian in prison or in danger for their faith tonight,
give strength, protection and hope.
Amen.
A Thanksgiving-Week Prayer
Lord, as we give thanks this week,
let us be grateful for the freedom to worship you.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- On 24 November.
- With Vietnamese Catholic communities.
- When praying for the persecuted Church.
Scripture Connection
“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?” — Romans 8:35
The Vietnamese Martyrs faced almost every item on Paul’s list, and their letters show they believed his answer: nothing can.
Related prayers
For November, see the November 23 Prayer and November 17 Prayer. For courage, the Prayer of Fortitude.