A Soldier and Mayor for Christ

Amid the sweeping waves of persecution in 19th‑century Vietnam under the Nguyễn emperors, Saint Michael My rose not only as a faithful Catholic and soldier but also as a trusted civil leader. Serving as the village mayor (or head) of his community, he held a position of authority which he wielded to protect and nurture the local Church. Though dedicated to public service, Michael My’s leadership was grounded in humility and fidelity to Christ, culminating in his martyrdom alongside his son‑in‑law and a priest. Canonized by Pope John Paul II in 1988, he remains a beacon of service, courage, and faith rooted in both civic responsibility and Christian conviction.

Formed in the Furnace

Saint Michael My was born in 1804 in Dai Dang camp, Van Sang district—today’s Ninh Bình province—in Vietnam. His birth name was Michael Nguyen Huy My; the eldest son of Nguyen Huy Dieu (also known as Ly My) from Ke Vinh village. He lost his father at age ten and his mother at twelve, and was raised by his aunt, receiving education in Confucian classics and basic medicine. At twenty he married Thi Men, the daughter of the respected layman Anthony Dich. He was known among neighbors for intelligence, moral integrity, and eloquence.

When his village needed a new headman, locals first nominated him, though he modestly declined. Eventually, at the advice of Bishop Joseph Du, he accepted the role to shield his people and support the faithful amid mounting anti‑Christian pressure. As village chief—referred to in official and Church sources as mayor—he protected Catholics, encouraged persistence in faith, and balanced civil responsibilities with spiritual courage.

Civil Duty and Devout Faith

In his role as mayor, Michael My governed with fairness, refusing bribes, judging impartially, and helping the poor without expecting anything in return. His administration fostered peace and spiritual solidarity in his community. Though not known for overt miracles, his sanctity shone through daily choices: continuing Catholic devotion, sheltering the vulnerable, and gently encouraging his neighbors to remain faithful despite fear. His leadership embodied Psalm 78:72: “With upright heart he shepherded them and guided them with his skillful hand.”

He served during a time when the Nguyễn emperors, particularly Minh Mạng and Tự Đức, outlawed Christianity, requiring subjects to renounce their faith by walking on a cross or worshiping the emperor. Michael used his position not for personal gain, but to quietly sustain the life of the Church under oppressive conditions—helping priests, writing letters of encouragement, and defending his people from unjust authorities.

Loyal Unto Death

In May 1838, the Nam Định provincial governor ordered a roundup of Catholic leaders in Vĩnh Trị village. Michael My voluntarily identified himself as village head and defender of the faith. He was arrested alongside Anthony Dich (his father‑in‑law) and Father James Nam. Despite threats, physical torture, and pressure to recant out of concern for his family, Michael declared: “I love my family, of course, but I believe that if I die now, I will be able to meet them again in heaven.”

Imprisoned for months, he remained steadfast until August 12, 1838, when he was beheaded at Bay Mau court in Nam Định. His final act was a public affirmation of love for Christ over all temporal power and safety. Though his death lacked dramatic visions, it delivered the profound witness of civil integrity and Christian resolve—a seed that nourished Vietnamese Catholic courage for generations.

Beyond the Grave

Although no individual post‑death miracle is recorded specifically in Michael My’s name, he shares in the communal intercession and spiritual fruits of the 117 Vietnamese Martyrs canonized together on June 19, 1988, by Pope John Paul II. Churches and shrines honoring the Vietnamese Martyrs exist in Vietnam and throughout the global Vietnamese diaspora, serving as focal points of pilgrimage and reflection on faithful courage.

His role as mayor adds a unique dimension: a civil leader who served his community in both civic and spiritual arenas. Pilgrims and believers often ask for steadfast integrity in positions of authority or influence, invoking Michael My as a model. While not known for miraculous healing, the unseen miracles he performed—in leadership, compassion, and courage—bridge public service and divine grace.

The Hidden Power of Quiet Faith

Saint Michael My invites us to consider how we serve—whether in family, workplace, or civic duties—with integrity, humility, and faith. His example reminds us that Christian discipleship can flourish in everyday positions of authority, not despite them. He challenges us to see leadership not as dominion, but as service rooted in Christ.

If we find ourselves navigating institutions or communities where faith is challenged or unpopular, we can turn to Michael My’s example. He shows us how to govern justly, protect the vulnerable, encourage others in belief, and remain loyal to Christ—even when it costs us. His intercession can aid those called to leadership in church, work, or society, seeking to blend public good with Gospel fidelity.

Let his legacy inspire us to pray: Lord, help me lead with integrity, serve with compassion, and remain steadfast in faith—even when doing so is difficult.

Engage with Us!

We’d love to hear your reflections! How does the example of Saint Michael My inspire you to live your faith with more courage and simplicity? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Reflection Questions:

1. What small daily choices can I make to stay faithful to Christ, even when it’s uncomfortable?
2. How can I cultivate the quiet strength that Saint Michael My showed in the face of persecution?
3. Who are the hidden saints around me whose witness I may be overlooking?

Let’s support one another in our faith journey. May we do all things with love, just as our Lord Jesus did.

Saint Michael My, pray for us! ✝️

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