September 20
Andrés Kim Taegon and 102 companions
Martyr priests
(19th century) Some laymen introduced the Christian faith to Korea in the 17th century and formed a vigorous community that remained firm and organized, without the presence of priests until two centuries later.
Biography
During three periods of persecution, 103 martyrs emerged from this Christian community, among whom were Andrés Kim Taegon, the first priest and zealous pastor, and Pablo Chong Hasang, a layman. The rest were laymen of all classes and statuses, young and old, who with their deaths sowed the vigorous development of the Church in Korea. To the laity, who work immersed in all the circumstances and structures of secular life, corresponds specifically to the immediate and direct task of ordering temporal realities in light of the doctrinal principles enunciated by the Magisterium; but acting, at the same time, with the necessary personal autonomy in the face of the specific decisions they have to make in their social, family, political, cultural, etc. life.
Practical advice
When you begin your work, calmly defend a truth that others prefer to remain silent with peace, perseverance and good humor.