Vietnam can be remembered with blood, war, and drugs. However, there have been some very great things that have come from Vietnam. Religious freedom was once given to the people of Vietnam. Christianity flourished under the efforts of the Spanish, Portuguese, and the French, Jesuits opened the first permanent mission at Da Nang in 1615. They ministered to Japanese Catholics driven from Japan and welcomed any others to join.

From 1820 to 1841, a new leader named Minh-Mang began persecuting the Christians. This continued even after his death until 1888. By 1954, there were over a million and a half Catholics. This was about seven percent of the population in the North. Buddhists represented about 60 percent. Persistent persecution forced many to flee to the South. The South flourished from the immigration. Everyone in the South still enjoyed religious freedom. Their numbers increased greatly over time.

St. Andrew Dung-Lac was one of the many people who gave up their lives under the cruel torture brought about from the persecution. Little biographical information has been discovered about him, however he and those who were martyred with him are well documented and are an example of courage, faithfulness and integrity to all of us today.

St. Andrew Dung-Lac and his companions show us not to give into peer pressure. We must stand up for what we believe to be right no matter what the opposition. Jesus Christ is far more important than our own lives. Through persecution and death, St. Andrew Dung-Lac received God's gift of heaven.

Quote:"The Church in Vietnam is alive and vigorous, blessed with strong and faithful bishops, dedicated religious, and courageous and committed lay people... The church in Vietnam is living out the gospel in a difficult and complex situation with remarkable persistence and strength."