1900 - Peter Wu Anbang

July 9, 1900

Taiyuan, Shanxi

Peter Wu Anbang. [CRBC]

Wu Anbang was born into a devout Christian family that had worshipped God for several generations. After his conversion to Christ, Wu adopted the name Peter, and desired to become a priest. He joined the seminary at Taiyuan, but due to unforeseen circumstances he was compelled to leave after a few years. The priests at Taiyuan had seen that Wu’s character was exemplary, and so offered him a job serving in the cathedral. He helped at the priests’ refectory, and also served as a footman.

During his spare time, Peter Wu Anbang never lost his creative gifts. He composed poetry, authored a booklet, and helped to copy documents for Bishop Grassi. Wu also taught doctrine to new believers, strengthening their faith. It was noted that “Even with the respect he enjoyed in these occupations, he was always ready to teach the poor. He was so humble that he would never feel upset even if someone laughed at him.”[1]

As the Boxer volcano erupted throughout Shanxi Province, a group of priests fled Taiyuan and hid in Changgou Village. On June 28th the bishop sent Wu and another servant to carry money to the priests. On the way they were intercepted by soldiers who robbed them and tried to force them to deny their faith. They beat the two Christians and finally released them on condition they never work for the foreigners again. Peter Wu Anbang returned to Taiyuan bloodied and bruised and was among those arrested and beheaded on July 9, 1900.