Saint Peter Nguyễn Văn Hiếu was born in 1783 in Đồng Chuối village. He entered religious life and became a catechist. He was assigned to serve and assist priests, including Father Khoan in Phúc Nhạc parish. Renowned for his gentle nature and profound piety, catechist Hiếu fervently encouraged the faithful to diligently receive the Sacraments.

On August 24, 1837, catechist Hiếu was captured in Đông Biên along with Father Khoan and catechist Thanh. In the Ninh Bình prison, he endured numerous torture sessions. Despite threats and enticements, he resolutely refused to step on the Crucifix, preferring to suffer any hardship rather than betray God. Initially, the three were imprisoned together, but later the official separated them to more easily sway their will. During interrogations, catechist Hiếu and catechist Thanh always endured beatings together, supporting each other to remain steadfast in faith.

Whenever soldiers dragged him past an image [of the Crucifix], catechist Hiếu always tried to protest or lift his feet to avoid touching it, demonstrating his unyielding and indomitable spirit. During his imprisonment, there were times he felt joy for suffering for God, but also sadness for not yet having proven his faith to the end. He often fasted on Fridays and advised visiting faithful to remain strong in their faith, while also asking them to pray for him to receive the grace of martyrdom.

When brought to trial a second time and sentenced to beheading, catechist Hiếu steadfastly refused to step on the Crucifix. The night before the execution, he prayed throughout the night. On April 28, 1840, catechist Hiếu, along with Father Khoan and catechist Thanh, were taken to the execution ground at the foot of Cánh Diều mountain. On the way, the three sang hymns of thanksgiving. At the execution site, after the cangue was removed, catechist Hiếu was tied to a stake and beheaded.

His remains were taken by the faithful of Yên Mối village (now Gia Lạc parish, Phát Diệm Diocese) for burial. Catechist Peter Nguyễn Văn Hiếu was beatified on May 27, 1900, and canonized on June 19, 1988.