The first Korean to be ordained a priest was Andrew Kim Taegon. He was executed a year later, just as thousands of others were in the course of that century. 103 of them were officially declared martyrs for the faith. The Korean martyrs remind us that faith makes us strong and steadfast in love. They were radical in their choice for Jesus, and died cruel deaths as a consequence.
Under the emperor Decius, Christians were ordered to offer sacrifice to the pagan gods. Many Christians, faced with dire threats of what would befall anyone failing to comply, apostasised. Later, St Cyprian supported Pope St Cornelius in readmitting people after a short time of penance.
This feast originated as a memorial of the Seven Sorrows of Mary, most of which were linked to the events of Good Friday. Mary had a unique share in our redemption, offering her Son’s life to the Lord, trusting that it was part of his plan.
The Feast celebrates the Cross, the instrument of our salvation, and is in many ways an extension of Good Friday. The Cross is a great and powerful sign of God’s love for us – a love stronger than death – and also a daily reality in our lives: the only true path to holiness.
The Queen spoke often of her faith and offered a witness to its power in her life. Here are ten quotes from Queen Elizabeth II that may offer Catholics inspiration.
Pray for the repose of the soul of Queen Elizabeth II (1926-2022). May she rest in peace.
