Santos André Kim and companions
The Korean Church stands out for a unique peculiarity: it was founded by lay people. The Spirit of the Roman Missal blows wherever it wants, and in this narrow peninsula in the far east of the world, the same Spirit inspired hearts that opened to the new faith brought by Chinese ecclesiastical delegations since the 17th century.
The First Steps of Faith in Korea
Over time, Chinese priests visited Korea annually, bringing with them the Christian faith. A layman named Lee Byeok was captivated by Father Matteo Ricci's book “The True Doctrine of God,” and the first Christian community in the country was born in 1780. This faith flourished, and visiting priests began liturgical celebrations. Over time, the community grew and requested more missionaries from Beijing.
Challenges and Persecutions
The Korean government viewed this new faith with suspicion, as it introduced rites different from the traditional ones. In 1802, a state edict not only banned Christian belief but also ordered the extermination of Christians. Persecution intensified, and many were martyred, including Chinese priests. In 1837, two priests and a Bishop from the Foreign Missions arrived in Paris, also facing persecution.
Saint Andrew Kim Taegon: A Priest Born in Korea
André Kim Taegon, born in 1821 into a converted family, experienced faith from a young age. His father transformed the house into a domestic church, where many believers were baptized. His father's premature death strengthened his faith even further. After being ordained in Macau, he returned to Korea as a deacon, secretly helping Bishop Ferréol enter the country. André worked as a missionary in secret, achieving notable results in his apostolate. However, he was arrested while trying to send documents to Europe and martyred on September 16, 1846.
Saint Paul Chong Hasang: A Catechist Pilgrim
Paulo Chong Hasang's story is marked by courage. He was born in 1795 and witnessed the martyrdom of part of his family. After being arrested and losing all his possessions, his faith grew stronger. He joined the Christian community in Seoul and worked to convert others. He made 15 pilgrimages to China, pledging to bring priests and missionaries to Korea. Arrested during the persecutions, Paulo was martyred on September 22, 1839.
Witnesses of Faith and Martyrdom
Martyrdom was a significant part of Christian history in Korea. There were ten thousand martyrs, many of them canonized and celebrated on the same liturgical feast. André Kim Taegon led this group, which included men and women, lay people, elders, young people and children. They faced torture and shed their blood for the beginning of the Church in Korea.
Canonization and Legacy
Saint Andrew Kim Taegon and Saint Paul Chong Hasang were canonized on May 6, 1984 by Pope John Paul II. The Church recognized the importance of his testimony of unshakable faith and dedication to the Christian cause. The liturgical celebration on September 20 is a tribute to these heroes of faith, who faced extraordinary challenges to strengthen the Church in Korea. His legacy continues to inspire and guide the faithful on their spiritual journey.