Simeon-Francois Berneux Saint of the Roman Catholic Church, Bishop, Martyr Date of Birth: 14.05.1814 Country: France

1. Early Life and Education
2. Missionary Vocation
3. Bishop of Korea
4. Arrest and Execution
5. Beatification and Canonization
6. Legacy

Early Life and Education

Simeon François Berneux was born into poverty in Le Mans, France, and entered the seminary there in 1831. He was ordained a priest on May 30, 1837, and served as a professor and spiritual director at the seminary.

Missionary Vocation

In 1839, Berneux joined the Paris Society of Foreign Missions. In 1840, he embarked on a mission to Korea, where Catholics faced persecution.

Bishop of Korea

On August 5, 1854, Pope Pius IX appointed Berneux as the Apostolic Vicar of Korea and titular Bishop of Capsa. As Bishop, he established a seminary in Korea and published Catholic books.

Arrest and Execution

On February 23, 1866, Berneux was arrested and executed on March 8, 1866, in Seoul during a wave of persecution.

Beatification and Canonization

Berneux was beatified by Pope Paul VI on October 6, 1968, and canonized by Pope John Paul II on May 6, 1984, as one of the 103 Korean martyrs. His relics were transferred from Seoul to Berlin, Germany, in 2001.

Legacy

Saint Simeon François Berneux is a revered figure in the Catholic Church and a symbol of faith in the face of persecution. His feast day is celebrated on September 20.