Martyred for the faith at Wonju in the Gihae persecution, September 6, 1839. Beatified by Pope Francis on August 16, 2014.
Life
John Choe Hae-seong was a catechist leader (hoejang) who guided the believers of Gangwon Province. In an age when priests were rare, such leaders gathered the faithful, led their prayer, taught the faith and cared for the community.
When the Gihae persecution broke out in 1839, he too was seized and taken to Wonju. Harsh interrogation and punishment followed, but he did not abandon his faith, and he was martyred at Wonju on September 6, 1839.
Pope Francis declared him Blessed on August 16, 2014.
Spirituality
The spirituality of John Choe Hae-seong is service that cares for the community. As a lay leader he took the faith of his people as his own responsibility. Because the one who led also bore witness to the end, his life gave great strength to the faithful.
Reflection
John Choe Hae-seong cared for the faithful as their lay leader. Do I pray for those who serve in my parish? Why not thank them today, or join in some small service?