San Lorenzo Ruiz
- Born:
- c. 1600, Binondo, Manila, Philippines
- Died:
- September 29, 1637, Nagasaki, Japan
- Nationality:
- Filipino
- Profession(s):
- Sacristan, Calligrapher, Missionary
Early Life and Education
- Born to a Chinese father and a Filipina mother.
- Received a Christian education from the Dominican friars in Binondo.
- Served as an altar boy.
- Worked as a calligrapher, transcribing documents and writing for the Binondo church.
Career and Major Achievements
- Joined a group of Dominican missionaries traveling to Japan.
- Japan at the time was persecuting Christians, leading to his martyrdom.
- Refused to renounce his Christian faith despite torture.
- Canonized by Pope John Paul II on October 18, 1987, becoming the first Filipino saint.
Notable Works
While primarily known for his faith and martyrdom, San Lorenzo Ruiz's main contribution was his unwavering commitment to his beliefs. His story, as detailed in various hagiographies, continues to inspire.
Legacy and Impact
San Lorenzo Ruiz is a significant figure in the Catholic Church and in Philippine history. His canonization solidified his place as a national hero and an example of faith and resilience. The phrase "san lorenzo ruiz tagalog biography of jose" often appears in searches for information about his life, though the name "Jose" is not a part of his given name. His feast day is celebrated on September 28.