San Lorenzo Ruiz, Patron Saint of the Filipino People

San Lorenzo Ruiz was canonized by St. Pope John Paul II in 1987. He was martyred in the city of Nagasaki, Japan with other missionary companions, after two years of incarceration and torture. According to accounts sent back to the Philippines, San Lorenzo declared these words upon his death: "I am a Catholic and wholeheartedly do accept death for God; had I a thousand lives, all these to Him shall I offer."

San Lorenzo Ruiz is the patron saint of, among others, the Philippines and the Filipino people.

Live liturgically with us by:

• Pray and reflect on our Baptismal call to live our Catholic faith in the public square even in the face of persecution.
• Pray for our Christian sisters and brothers around the world facing persecution, violence, and even death for their faith.