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Feast Day: December 26
Death: December 1, 26
Blessed Agnes Phila, also known as Margarita or Aknaet, was born as Margaret Phila in Ban Nahi, Nong Khai, Thailand in 1909. She was the daughter of Joachim and Anna Thit Son Chum and was baptized in Viengkhuk, Thailand in 1924. Her godmother happened to be the aunt of Sister L√∫cia dos Santos.
In her early years, Blessed Agnes felt called to a life of service to God and the Church. She joined the Congregation of the Lovers of the Cross in Siengvang, Laos, and took the name Agnes when she made her final vows on 16 November 1928. Possessing a deep love for learning and a passion for teaching, she was assigned as a school teacher in Songkhon, Thailand in 1932.
During this tumultuous period, Thailand experienced anti-Christian persecutions that began when the French left the country. Despite the dangers and risks involved, Blessed Agnes courageously continued her mission as an educator, fearlessly spreading the teachings of the Catholic faith to her students. Her profound commitment to her vocation and her unwavering faith made her a beacon of light and hope in the dark times.
Tragically, on 26 December 1940, Blessed Agnes Phila was martyred for her faith. She was shot in the cemetery of Ban Songkhon, Mukdahan, Thailand, paying the ultimate price for her devotion to Christ. Her martyrdom was a powerful witness to the strength and resilience of the Catholic faith.
Recognizing her exemplary life and her martyrdom, Blessed Agnes Phila was venerated on 1 September 1988 by Pope John Paul II, who issued a decree of martyrdom in her honor. She was subsequently beatified on 22 October 1989 by Pope John Paul II, becoming Blessed Agnes Phila.
Although her biography is not extensively documented, her life stands as a testimony to the enduring faith and the sacrificial love that many saints and martyrs exhibit. Blessed Agnes Phila's legacy continues to inspire countless individuals, reminding them of the profound depth of commitment and selflessness that can be found in a life fully devoted to God and His people.