Andrew Kim was canonized in 1984 by Pope St. John Paul II, along with a very heroic seminarian, Paul Chong Hasang, and 103 other martyrs who died for the faith in Korea. When Seminarian Paul Hasang was captured, he gave a written statement to the judge who would decide his fate defending Catholicism. The judge, after reading it, said, "You are right in what you have written; but the king forbids this religion, it is your duty to renounce it” to which the seminarian replied, "I have told you that I am a Christian, and will be one until my death." For this, he too, was tortured and killed.
St. Andrew Kim Parish in Cleveland is named in honor of this courageous martyr, and is home to many Korean Catholics in our diocese. In fact, the diocese has had a long relationship with the South Korean Archdiocese of Daegu which has sent their seminarians to our seminary to complete their formation. They are ordained here in Cleveland, and serve in our parishes for a number of years before returning home. We, in a very real sense, are beneficiaries of the heroic martyrdom of the saints we celebrate today.
For centuries, Catholicism was seen as a threat to Korean customs and traditions, so Christianity took root in Korea only after much struggle and effort. But when it did begin to take root, those roots were strong.
At their 1984 canonization, Saint John Paul II called Saint Andrew Kim, Saint Paul and their 111 companions “the leaven” that lead to the splendid flowering of the Church in Korea.
How are we called to be “leaven” today—the leaven that will lead to the flowering of the Church in our own land? What will we do today that will lead souls to Christ? What will our Christian witness look like today in our own limited capacity?
The blood of the martyrs is the most powerful leaven in the Church, inspired by the heroic sacrifices of the martyrs, may the Holy Spirit teach us to pour ourselves out in faithful service this day, for the glory of God and salvation of souls.
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For all Christians facing persecution for the faith, that their sufferings may bring about the conversion of hardened souls to Christ.
For the good Korean Catholics of our diocese, that they may continue to be a blessing to our local Church.
For all the needs of the sick and the suffering, the homebound, those in nursing homes and hospitals, the underemployed and unemployed, victims of natural disaster, war, and terrorism, for all those who grieve the loss of a loved one, and those who will die today, for their comfort, and the consolation of their families.
For the repose of the souls of our beloved dead, for all of the poor souls in purgatory, for the deceased members of our families, friends, and parish, for the deceased priests, deacons and religious of the diocese of Cleveland, and for those who have fought and died for our freedom.
Incline your merciful ear to our prayers, we ask, O Lord, and listen in kindness to the supplications of those who call on you. Through Christ our Lord.
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