St. Kim Dae-Gŏn (Feast Day: September 20) was the first Korean Catholic priest. He was the son of Korean Roman Catholic converts, and received religious training in Macau, China. He was later ordained in Shanghai in 1845. St. Kim did extensive missionary work between China and his homeland. He was arrested while trying to explore a new sea route for the entrance of missionaries into Korea. As a result of opposing Korea’s closed-door policy, St. Kim Dae-Gŏn was imprisoned and executed. July 5, 1925 he was beatified along with 78 other Korean martyrs.
Questions for Reflection:
- St. Kim Dae-Gŏn was an inspirational individual who sacrificed for his faith. Who inspires you to do more for your faith?
- What are you willing to do to spread your faith to others?
