Early Life and Vocation
Marie-Nicolas-Antoine Daveluy was born on March 16, 1818, in Amiens, France, into a devout Catholic family. His father was a naval officer, but young Daveluy was drawn to the priesthood from an early age. He entered the seminary and was ordained a priest in 1841.
Despite his family’s initial opposition, he felt called to missionary work and joined the Missions Étrangères de Paris (MEP), an organization dedicated to spreading the Gospel in foreign lands. In 1844, he set sail for Korea, a country where Christianity was illegal and persecuted under the Joseon Dynasty.
Missionary Work in Korea
Upon his arrival in Korea, Daveluy immediately immersed himself in the culture and language, becoming fluent in Korean. He worked in secret, ministering to the small but devout Catholic community. The Catholic Church in Korea had been growing through lay evangelization, but foreign missionaries were rare due to intense persecution.
Over time, Daveluy became one of the most respected Catholic leaders in Korea. He wrote extensively on the history of Korean Catholicism and translated catechetical texts into Korean to help instruct the faithful. His efforts were crucial in strengthening the underground Church.
In 1857, he was appointed coadjutor bishop to Saint Siméon-François Berneux, the Apostolic Vicar of Korea, meaning he would assist and eventually succeed him. However, the political climate was becoming increasingly dangerous for Christians.
Martyrdom
In 1866, a brutal wave of anti-Christian persecution was unleashed by King Gojong’s regent, Heungseon Daewongun. Bishop Berneux and other missionaries were arrested, tortured, and executed. Daveluy was captured on March 11, 1866, just five days before his 48th birthday.
During his imprisonment, he was tortured and pressured to renounce his faith, but he remained steadfast. When interrogated, he courageously proclaimed:
“I am a Frenchman and a Catholic bishop. It is for my faith that I am ready to die.”
On March 30, 1866, Bishop Daveluy was led to his execution site in Galmaemot, near Boryeong. He was tied to a stake and beheaded, along with two Korean priests, Peter Aum and Joseph Chang. His blood joined that of many other martyrs who had given their lives for Christ in Korea.
Canonization and Legacy
Saint Marie-Nicolas-Antoine Daveluy was beatified in 1925 by Pope Pius XI and later canonized on May 6, 1984, by Pope Saint John Paul II, along with 102 other Korean martyrs. He is honored as one of the Martyrs of Korea, a group that includes both native Korean Catholics and foreign missionaries.
His courage, missionary zeal, and deep love for the faith continue to inspire Catholics, particularly in Korea, where the Church has grown remarkably despite centuries of persecution.
His feast day is September 20, celebrated with the other Korean martyrs.
Conclusion
Saint Marie-Nicolas-Antoine Daveluy exemplifies the missionary spirit of the Church, willing to risk everything for the salvation of souls. His life reminds us of the power of faith and the eternal reward that awaits those who remain faithful to Christ, even unto death.
May his witness inspire us to live with the same fervor and love for God!
Saint Marie-Nicolas-Antoine Daveluy, pray for us!