Lucia Pak Hŭi-sun
St. Lucia Pak Hŭi-sun was a Korean martyr known for her deep faith and courage. Her unwavering commitment to God inspires many to live out their beliefs.
- Feast day
- Sep 20
- Known as
- Martyr
- Era
- 19th-century Korea
Who they were
Lucia Pak Hŭi-sun was born in Korea in 1845 into a devout Catholic family. Her parents, devoted to the faith, instilled in her a strong spiritual foundation from an early age. As a young girl, she displayed extraordinary piety, often participating in prayers and religious activities, which fostered a deep relationship with God.
As Korea faced intense persecution of Christians in the late 19th century, Lucia's faith was put to the test. In 1866, during one of the waves of persecution under the Joseon Dynasty, Lucia was arrested for her faith alongside her family members. The authorities targeted her family due to their Christian beliefs, and they were subjected to brutal interrogations. Despite the intense pressure to renounce her faith, Lucia remained steadfast. She was noted for her resilient spirit and unwavering commitment to Christ, inspiring both her fellow prisoners and those she encountered during her trials.
Lucia was tortured in an attempt to force her to abandon Christianity, but she refused to give in. Her courage was palpable, and she became a symbol of faith under duress. Even in the face of death, she proclaimed her love for God, choosing martyrdom over the renunciation of her faith. She was executed on September 20, 1866, becoming one of the twenty martyrs who remain significant figures in the history of the Korean Catholic Church.
Throughout her life and upon her death, Lucia exemplified virtues such as fortitude, charity, and an unwavering commitment to her beliefs. For her profound faith and sacrifice, she was canonized by Pope John Paul II in 1984, making her a patron saint of courage and faith for Catholics worldwide.
Lucia's legacy continues to inspire countless individuals in Korea and beyond, as her life serves as a reminder of the strength found in faith, even in the darkest of times. The feast day of St. Lucia Pak Hŭi-sun is celebrated on September 20, a day dedicated to remembering her heroic life and the many sacrifices made by martyrs for the sake of the Gospel. Through her example, she encourages people to live their faith with integrity and valor, fostering hope and resilience in their spiritual journeys.
Remembered for
St. Lucia Pak Hŭi-sun is remembered for her steadfast faith and courage under persecution. She demonstrated an unwavering commitment to God, even in the face of death for her beliefs. Her martyrdom serves as a powerful example of love and dedication to Christ, inspiring countless believers to uphold their faith in challenging circumstances.
She is a symbol of hope and resilience for the Korean Church, showing how one's faith can shine brightly amidst adversity. St. Lucia’s life and sacrifice deepen our understanding of the call to witness to the Gospel, encouraging the faithful to embrace their own calling without fear, embodying true discipleship in all areas of life.
Sep 20
How to recognize them
- Crown of MartyrdomRepresents her bravery in bearing witness to her faith.
- CandleSymbolizes the light of faith she carried amidst persecution.
- CrossA reminder of her sacrifice for Christ and the Gospel.
Pray with this saint
Holy Lucia, intercede for us, that we may learn to live our faith boldly as you did. Grant us the strength to carry our crosses with love, and to remain steadfast in our commitment to God, even in difficult times.
For your household
Integrating St. Lucia into family life can be a deeply enriching experience. Parents can share her story with their children to illustrate the value of faith, courage, and love. Discussing her life during family prayers can help children understand the sacrifices made for the faith and inspire them to uphold their own beliefs.
On her feast day, September 20, families can celebrate by lighting a candle in her honor, symbolizing the light of faith she brought into the world. Consider making a special meal together, perhaps a dish inspired by Korean cuisine, while sharing stories of saints who have inspired the family. This day can also be marked with devoted prayers asking for her intercession for strength and fidelity in the face of life's challenges.
Encouraging the children to write their own 'letters of faith' like St. Lucia could also be a meaningful activity, allowing them to express their beliefs and their commitment to God. Creating a family tradition around her feast day will not only instill a sense of heritage in the children but also deepen their understanding of living out the faith courageously.
Pray as a household
Carry your family in prayer
Solua gives your family a simple, faithful rhythm of prayer — one unhurried moment at a time, for the people you carry by name.
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