St. Augustine Zhao Rong and Companions are honored by the Catholic Church on July 9. These 120 martyrs gave their lives for Christ in China between 1648 and 1930, during times of intense persecution. They included bishops, priests, religious sisters, catechists, and lay faithful—men, women, and children of both Chinese and missionary backgrounds.
Among them is St. Augustine Zhao Rong, a Chinese soldier who was assigned to escort a Catholic bishop to prison. Deeply moved by the bishop’s courage and unwavering faith, Augustine embraced Christianity, was baptized, and later became a diocesan priest. During a persecution of Christians, he was arrested for preaching the Gospel and suffered martyrdom for his faith.
The Chinese Martyrs came from many walks of life, yet they shared one common love: a steadfast devotion to Jesus Christ. Rather than deny their faith, they willingly accepted suffering and death, becoming shining witnesses to the power of the Gospel. Their courage continues to inspire Catholics throughout the world to remain faithful, even in times of trial.
In 2000, Pope St. John Paul II canonized the 120 Martyrs of China, honoring their heroic witness and inviting the faithful to imitate their unwavering trust in Christ.
Prayer
O God, You strengthened St. Augustine Zhao Rong and his companions to remain faithful to Christ even unto death. Through their prayers, grant us the courage to profess our faith with confidence, to remain steadfast in times of trial, and to love You above all things.
Help us to be faithful witnesses to the Gospel in our daily lives and to trust always in Your divine providence.
Through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
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