Saint Emmanuel Lê Van Phung

Biography

Saint Emmanuel Lê Van Phung, also known as Emanuele and Manuel, was a married layman living in the diocese of Long Xuyên, Vietnam during the 19th century. Born around 1796 in Ðau Nuoc (modern Tan My), Cho Moi, An Giang, Vietnam, not much is known about his early life. Emmanuel led a devout Christian life, fully embracing his faith and actively participating in the life of the Church. He was known for his dedication to his family, his community, and his strong moral character. Despite being a layman, he lived a life that exemplified the virtues of faith, love, and compassion. In the mid-19th century, Vietnam was undergoing a period of intense persecution against Christians, and Emperor Tu-Duc was particularly hostile towards the Catholic Church. Christians were mercilessly hunted down, and many faced imprisonment and execution for their refusal to renounce their faith. Emmanuel, along with countless other Vietnamese Catholics, was targeted by these persecutions. He was arrested and imprisoned for his refusal to renounce his Christian beliefs. For seven agonizing months, he endured the harsh conditions of captivity, both physical and emotional. Finally, on July 31, 1859, Emmanuel faced martyrdom. He was executed by beheading in Châu Ðoc, An Giang, Vietnam. Despite the immense suffering he endured, Emmanuel remained steadfast in his faith until the very end, choosing martyrdom rather than betraying his love for Christ. Emmanuel Lê Van Phung, along with many other Vietnamese martyrs, is considered a hero and a witness to the power of faith in the face of persecution. Their sacrifice and unwavering devotion to their Christian convictions continue to inspire and strengthen the Catholic community, both in Vietnam and around the world. It was Pope John Paul II who recognized the extraordinary sanctity of Emmanuel and many other Vietnamese martyrs. On June 19, 1988, he canonized them, officially validating their holiness as saints of the Catholic Church. Today, Saint Emmanuel Lê Van Phung is venerated as one of the Martyrs of Vietnam. Although not specifically associated with any particular patronage, Saint Emmanuel Lê Van Phung serves as a shining example of courage and faith, inspiring believers to persevere in the face of adversity and to remain devoted to Christ, even under the most difficult circumstances. His feast days are celebrated on July 31st and November 24th, along with the other Martyrs of Vietnam, commemorating their brave witness to the Christian faith.