St. Agnes Tsao-Kou Ying was a courageous Chinese laywoman who gave her life for her faith during a time of intense persecution.
St. Agnes Tsao-Kou Ying was born around 1821 in China into a time of social unrest and religious persecution. Raised in a traditional Chinese environment, Agnes encountered the Catholic faith and, after conversion, embraced it wholeheartedly. Her devotion to God led her to a life of deep prayer, charity, and fearless witness despite the growing threats facing Christians in her region.
She worked as a domestic helper, yet her status as a humble laywoman never limited her spiritual influence. Agnes was known for her gentleness, strong faith, and desire to share the Gospel through her actions and courage. Her daily life was a testimony to Christ, and those who met her were touched by her kindness and spiritual depth.
In 1862, during the height of the anti-Christian persecutions in China, Agnes was arrested along with several other Christians, including other members of the Martyrs of China. When brought before the authorities, she refused to renounce her faith. Her interrogators promised her freedom if she would deny Christ, but Agnes remained steadfast. She declared boldly that she would rather die than betray her Savior.
Her refusal to abandon her faith led to brutal torture. Even as she suffered, she did not waver. On July 19, 1862, Agnes Tsao-Kou Ying was executed, offering her life as a martyr for the Catholic faith. She was around 41 years old at the time of her death.
Agnes was canonized by Pope John Paul II on October 1, 2000, as one of the 120 Martyrs of China, a group of men, women, and children who died for their faith between the 17th and 20th centuries. Her memory remains a symbol of unwavering faith and quiet strength.