SCIC Triduum Day 4: The Victory of Faith
The Feast of Sts. Chastan and Imbert celebrates a victory that the world often fails to recognize—the victory of faith. St. Jacques-Honoré Chastan and Bishop Laurent Imbert were French missionaries who left behind the comforts of home to bring the Gospel to Korea, where Christianity was forbidden. Despite persecution, imprisonment, and the certainty of death, they remained faithful to Christ and ultimately gave their lives for the faith in 1839. Their witness reflects the words of the prophet Isaiah: “Seek the Lord while he may be found” (Isaiah 55:6). By placing God’s will above their own safety, they showed that true victory comes not from preserving one’s life, but from remaining faithful to God’s call.
The second reading reminds us of St. Paul’s conviction: “For to me, living is Christ and dying is gain” (Philippians 1:21). These words could easily describe the lives of Sts. Chastan and Imbert. Knowing the dangers that awaited them, they continued their missionary work among the Korean faithful and eventually surrendered themselves during the persecution. Though their enemies believed they had silenced the Gospel, their martyrdom became a powerful testimony that inspired future generations of Christians. Faith transformed their suffering into a lasting witness, proving that no earthly power can overcome a heart fully devoted to Christ.
In the Gospel, Jesus tells the parable of the workers in the vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16a), revealing a God whose generosity exceeds human expectations. Sts. Chastan and Imbert responded wholeheartedly to the Lord’s invitation to labour in His vineyard, trusting Him to the very end. Their lives remind us that the victory of faith is not measured by worldly success, but by fidelity to God’s mission. As we come to a close for this feast day celebration, may we have the courage to remain steadfast in our own vocation, trusting that “the Lord is near to all who call upon him” (Psalm 145:18), and that every sacrifice made for Christ will bear fruit in His kingdom. (EV)
