I have subscribed to a flocknote called Breakfast with the Saints and I have to credit them with the inspiration for the post today. This is a Saint that is entirely new to me, and I find that these are often my favorite posts.
Anna Wang was born to a poor but devout Catholic family in Majiazhuang, Hebei, China in 1886. Her mother died when she was only five years old, but she was blessed to have the guidance of Sister Lucy Wang to continue the faith formation that her mother had started. When Anna was 11, her family tried to force her into an arranged marriage, which was common at that time. Anna resisted strongly motivated by her desire to serve God and remain faithful to her Catholic beliefs.
Just a few years later, on July 21, 1900, the village was invaded by anti-Christian members of the Boxer Rebellion intent on destroying the church and killing Christians and foreigners. The Boxers rounded up Christians and demanded that the renounce their faith or face death. Many complied in order to safeguard their children and families. Anna spent her final hours in prayer for solace and strength. She resolutely refused to denounce her faith and encouraged others to remain strong.
Anna was beheaded at the age of 14, on July 22, 1900. Her body was thrown into a mass grave. Over a year later, her body was exhumed for a proper burial.
Although specific patronages have not been assigned to Anna, she is unofficially a patron of China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, youth, the innocent and the Chinese Diaspora. Her feast day is July 22.
St. Anna Wang, pray for us.
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