Saint Barbara Choe Yongi

Biography

Saint Barbara Choe Yongi, also known as Bareubara Choe Yeong-i, was a young married lay woman who resided in the apostolic vicariate of Korea. She is recognized as a martyr for her unwavering faith in the face of persecution. Born in Seoul, South Korea in 1819, Saint Barbara Choe Yongi lived during a time when Christianity was viewed with suspicion and hostility by the Korean authorities. Little is known about Saint Barbara Choe Yongi's early life and upbringing. She married a Catholic man and lived as a faithful wife, dedicated to her family and her faith. During this time, the Catholic Church in Korea faced immense persecution, as Christianity was considered a foreign religion that threatened the stability of the Korean society. In the early 19th century, the Joseon Dynasty, ruling Korea at the time, promulgated strict laws against the practice of Catholicism. These laws aimed to eradicate the faith and suppress its followers. Christians were subjected to frequent interrogations, torture, and even death for their refusal to renounce their beliefs. Saint Barbara Choe Yongi found herself caught up in this wave of persecution when the authorities discovered her family's Catholic affiliation. Despite the constant threat to her life, Saint Barbara remained steadfast in her devotion to God and the Catholic Church. She refused to renounce her faith, even under extreme pressure. In 1840, Saint Barbara Choe Yongi was captured and brought before a court to renounce her Christian beliefs. Standing firm in her faith, she bravely declared her loyalty to Jesus Christ and His Church. Subsequently, she was sentenced to death by beheading. On the 1st of February 1840, Saint Barbara Choe Yongi was executed in Dangkogae, Seoul. Her martyrdom remains a powerful testament to her courage, resilience, and unwavering faith in the face of immense adversity. The Catholic Church recognized Saint Barbara Choe Yongi's martyrdom, and her cause for canonization began. On the 9th of May 1925, Pope Pius XI declared her venerable, acknowledging her heroic virtue and martyrdom. Just two months later, on the 5th of July 1925, Pope Pius XI beatified her. Finally, on the 6th of May 1984, Pope John Paul II canonized Saint Barbara Choe Yongi, recognizing her as a saint and role model for all Christians, especially those facing persecution. Although she does not have a specific patronage attributed to her, her example serves as an inspiration for all who face challenges to their faith. Saint Barbara Choe Yongi's feast days are celebrated on the 1st of February, the day of her martyrdom, and the 20th of September, along with the other Korean Martyrs. As one of the Martyrs of Korea, Saint Barbara Choe Yongi stands as a shining example of heroic virtue and unwavering faith in the face of persecution. Her life and witness continue to inspire and challenge believers around the world.