Martyred for the faith at outside Seosomun, Seoul in the Sinyu persecution, May 14, 1801. Beatified by Pope Francis on August 16, 2014.
Life
Peter Choe Pil-je was a believer from Seoul's middle class who made his living dealing in medicinal herbs. Known to be a kinsman of Thomas Choe Pil-gong, he served as a lay leader guiding the faithful.
He worked for the community, helping believers gather to pray and learn the faith. Arrested in the Sinyu persecution of 1801, he kept the faith through harsh interrogation and was martyred outside Seosomun in Seoul on May 14, 1801.
On August 16, 2014, Pope Francis beatified him among Paul Yun Ji-chung and 123 companion martyrs.
Spirituality
Peter Choe Pil-je's spirituality is a sharing that gathers people and helps faith grow. He did not stop at believing alone but made room for fellow believers to learn and pray together. He knew by experience that faith grows within community. His sharing continued even amid persecution.
Reflection
Peter Choe Pil-je made room for fellow believers to gather, learn, and pray. What small place of sharing could I create in my parish? Why not invite a neighbor to a Bible study or prayer group?