Saint Mitrophan Yang

St. Mitrophan Yang (also known as St. Mitrophan of Beijing) was the first Chinese priest of the Orthodox Church. He served as a dedicated leader of the Orthodox Christian community in Beijing during the late 19th century. St. Mitrophan was known for his deep faith, pastoral care, and commitment to spreading Orthodox Christianity in China.

During the Boxer Rebellion in 1900, a violent anti-foreign and anti-Christian uprising, St. Mitrophan, his family, and many members of the Orthodox community faced severe persecution. The Boxers targeted Christians, blaming them and other foreigners for the problems China was facing at the time. Despite the imminent threat, St. Mitrophan and his followers refused to renounce their faith.

On June 10th, 1900, St. Mitrophan, his wife, Tatiana, their three sons, and many other Orthodox Christians were martyred. They were brutally tortured and killed for their unwavering commitment to their faith in Christ. St. Mitrophan Yang and the Chinese Martyrs are remembered for their courage and steadfastness in the face of persecution.

The Russian Orthodox Church canonized St. Mitrophan Yang and his fellow martyrs, and their feast day is celebrated on June 11th. They are honored for their ultimate sacrifice and their witness to the faith, serving as an inspiration to Orthodox Christians worldwide.