Saint of the Day: St. Augustine Zhao Rong and Companions

Martyrs (1648-1930)

Their story

+ This group of martyrs includes 120 women, men, and children, among whom were 85 Chinese, who gave their lives in witness to their Catholic faith. 

+ Martyred over the course of several centuries, this diverse group, which also includes 33 European missionaries, witnesses to the courage and constancy of Chinese Christians. 

+ Saint Augustine Zhao Rong, for whom the group of martyrs is named, was a native Chinese priest of the Su-Tchuen province. Arrested because of his Christian faith and ministry, he died in prison in 1815. 

+ Canonized during the Jubilee Year of 2000, these martyrs are honored collectively as the patrons of China. 

For prayer and reflection

“The souls of the Saints are rejoicing in heaven, the Saints who followed the footsteps of Christ, and since for love of him they shed their blood, they now exult with Christ for ever.”—Entrance Antiphon for the Mass for Several Martyrs Outside of Easter Time

Spiritual bonus

On this day the Church in Colombia celebrates the Feast of Our Lady of Chiquinquirá, under which title the Mother of God is celebrated as patroness of Colombia. 

Prayer

All-powerful, ever-living God,
turn our weakness into strength.
As you gave Augustine Zhao Rong and the martyrs of China
the courage to suffer death for Christ,
give us the courage to live in faithful witness to you.
Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever. Amen.

(from The Roman Missal)
Saint profiles prepared by Fr. Silas Henderson, S.D.S.