Most Catholics have zero idea that this ever happened.
They were killed for not accepting the new religion established by Act of Parliament commanded by the King, and “for writing and giving counsel against the King”.
“First, the four monks and one of the priests were taken from the Tower of London to Tyburn and hanged. While still alive the hangman cut out their hearts and guts and burned them. Then they were beheaded and chopped into quarters, and the parts placed in public places on spears.
And it is believed that each one saw the other’s execution fully carried out before he was killed.
Witnesses saw no change in their expression or tone of voice, and while the execution was happening they confidently preached to the bystanders to do good and to obey the King in everything that was not against the honor of God and the Church." (Vatican Archives)
Catholics from every part of society were martyred - old and young, rich and poor, men and women, from every state in life.
How do we follow their example today? Are we ready to give everything for God and His Church?
We need their prayers more than ever. We need their strength, their clarity of thought, and their moral courage. We need the fire of their hearts - the magnificent fire of the peace that surpasses all understanding, and that cannot be quenched.
The fire of God's love.
Holy Martyrs of England and Wales, pray for us!
