St. Rosa Fan Hui

Saint Rosa Fan Hui, also known as Fan Hui and Luosa, was an unmarried lay woman and an inspiring convert to the Catholic faith. She was born around 1855 in Fannjiazhuang, Apostolic Vicariate of Southeastern Zhili, Wujiao Hebei Province, China. Rosa's deep devotion to her faith led her to take the name Rosa upon her conversion. Rosa became an active and enthusiastic catechist, dedicating herself to sharing the teachings of the Catholic Church with others. She passionately embraced her mission and worked diligently to spread the message of Christ's love throughout her community. Her vibrant faith inspired many around her. Tragically, during the Boxer Rebellion, anti-Christian forces advanced into the region where Rosa lived. Despite the imminent danger, Rosa fearlessly continued her ministry and remained steadfast in her beliefs. On the Feast of the Assumption, Rosa and her friends gathered for prayer, seeking strength and protection from God. The following morning, Rosa and her companions were all arrested by the anti-Christian forces. Because of Rosa's well-known active involvement in her faith, she became a prime target for their aggression. She was subjected to severe beatings and repeatedly stabbed in an attempt to force her to renounce Christianity. However, Rosa remained resolute in her faith, refusing to deny her Lord. Her unwavering courage and refusal to renounce her faith served as an example to others, but it also intensified the cruelty inflicted upon her. Despite the harsh treatment, Rosa never succumbed to their demands. Instead, she continued to profess her love for Christ and embrace her identity as a Christian. Tragically, the persecution ultimately escalated to the point where Rosa was beaten and thrown into a river to drown on August 16, 1900, in Fannjiazhuang, Apostolic Vicariate of Southeastern Zhili, Wujiao Hebei Province, China. Her ultimate sacrifice of her own life for her faith is a testament to her unwavering devotion to Christ and the Gospel. Saint Rosa Fan Hui was recognized for her heroic virtue and martyrdom. She was venerated on February 22, 1955, by Pope Pius XII, who declared her a martyr. On April 17, 1955, Pope Pius XII beatified her, acknowledging her as a Blessed of the Catholic Church. Finally, on October 1, 2000, Pope John Paul II canonized Rosa, elevating her to the status of a beloved saint. Today, Saint Rosa Fan Hui is honored and celebrated as a model of faith and steadfastness in the face of persecution. She serves as an inspiration to Christians around the world, reminding them of the importance of remaining firm in their beliefs, even in the most challenging circumstances. Saint Rosa Fan Hui is a patron of the faithful, upholding the virtue of steadfast devotion to God.