Korean layman who kept the faith in the persecution of 1846 and was martyred on September 20, 1846.
Life
Joseph Im Chi-baek was born in 1804. He worked as a boatman and was not a Catholic at first.
When Father Andrew Kim Tae-gon was arrested in 1846, Joseph's son was caught with him. Joseph went to look after his son and was himself imprisoned. Living among the Catholic prisoners, he came to believe, and he is said to have been baptized in prison.
Though he came to faith late, he never wavered, and he was martyred in prison on September 20, 1846.
Spirituality
Joseph Im Chi-baek's spirituality is a full response to grace that came late. He met the light in the darkest place, a prison, and he guarded the faith he received with his life. His story shows that with God it is never too late.
Reflection
Joseph Im Chi-baek went to prison out of love for his son and met God there. Do I believe the Lord is present even in the dark places of my life? Why not pray for a family member who does not yet know the faith?