Saint Andrew Dung-Lac, a Vietnamese priest, is honored as a martyr in the Catholic Church. Born in 1795 in Vietnam, he was a dedicated catechist and later became a priest, serving the Christian community in a time of intense persecution against Catholics in Vietnam.Â
Alongside him, a group of 117 other martyrs, including both laypeople and clergy, are commemorated for their unwavering faith and sacrifice. These companions suffered persecution for their beliefs during the 17th to 19th centuries, particularly under the reigns of Emperor Minh Mang and Emperor Tu Duc, who sought to suppress Christianity.
Saint Andrew and his companions were canonized by Pope John Paul II on June 19, 1988. Their feast day is celebrated on November 24, serving as a powerful reminder of the courage and resilience of the faithful in the face of adversity and their ultimate witness to Christ.