Tomorrow – Feast of the English Martyrs

Tomorrow, Wednesday 4th May, is the Feast of the English Martyrs. On this day in 1535 there died at Tyburn three Carthusian monks, the first of many English men and women martyred for the Catholic faith during the Reformation. Of these martyrs, 284 have been canonised or declared blessed, but the number of those who died or suffered harsh persecution between 1535 and 1680 cannot now be reckoned. They came from every walk of life and are remembered for the example they gave of constancy in the faith and courage in the face of persecution. Here is a prayer to say, the Collect of the Mass for the day: Almighty God, who in our country raised up martyrs from every walk of life to vindicate the authority of your Church in teaching and worship, grant through their intercession, we pray, that all our people may be gathered once again to celebrate the same sacraments under the one Shepherd, Jesus Christ, your Son. Who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God for ever and ever. Amen.