Through the missionary efforts of various religious families beginning in the 17th century (1625) and continuing until 1866, the Vietnamese people heard the message of the Gospel, and many accepted it despite persecution and even death.On June 19, 1988, Pope John Paul II from the great number of Vietnamese martyrs canonized 117 person martyred in the 18th century. Among these are included 96 Vietnamese, 11 missionaries born in Spain and belonging to the Order of Preachers, and 10 French missionaries belonging to the Parish Foreign Mission Society. Among these Saints are 8 Spanish and French bishops, 50 priests (13 European and 37 Vietnamese), and 59 lay people of every state of life.
These Martyrs gave their lives not only for the Church but for their country as well. They showed that they wanted the Gospel of Christ to take root in their people and contribute to the good of their homeland. On June 1, 1989, these holy Martyrs were inscribed in the liturgical calendar of the Universal Church for November 24.
PRAYER: God, the fount and origin of all fatherhood, You enabled the blessed Martyrs Andrew and his companions to be faithful to the Cross of Your Son even unto the shedding of their blood. Grant through their intercession that we may propagate Your love among our brothers and sisters and not only be called but really be Your children. Amen.