St. John Yi Yun-il
Born: 1822
Died: January 21, 1867
Feast day: January 21
Patron saint of: N/A
One of 103 Korean martyrs canonized by Pope John Paul II in 1984, John Yi Yun-il was a father, farmer, and catechist who lived in Korea during the 19th century. During this time of rampant Christian persecution in Korea, John remained committed to his belief in God and sharing the faith that was so important to him. Even during his flogging and ultimate decapitation, he persevered. Like many of the Korean martyrs, John Yi Yun-il was a lay person. With this, it is often said that Christianity grew in Korea not because of clergy and religious, but the dedication of the faithful who sustained and passed on their faith even in secret and dire circumstances where thousands of lay Christians were killed. John Yi Yun-il is also celebrated with the rest of the 103 Korean martyrs on September 20.
