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Feast Day: May 6
Death: May 1, 6
Blessed Anthony Middleton, also known as Father Anthony Middleton, was born in Middleton Tyas, North Yorkshire, England. He was the son of Ambrose Middleton from Barnard Castle, Durham, and Cecil, the daughter of Anthony Crackenthorpe from Howgill Castle, Westmoreland.
In his pursuit of a spiritual calling, Middleton entered the English College at Rheims, France on 9 January 1582. He diligently pursued his studies and was eventually ordained as a priest on 30 May 1586.
Following his ordination, Father Anthony Middleton returned to England to minister to covert Catholics in the area of London. During these challenging times in England, the Catholic faith was suppressed, and priests were specifically targeted for their ministry. Despite the risks, Father Middleton worked tirelessly to provide spiritual guidance and the sacraments to the Catholic faithful.
Tragically, on one fateful day, Father Middleton was arrested for the crime of priesthood. He was captured in a residence in Clerkenwell, London by a priest-catcher who deceitfully claimed to be a Catholic in need of a priest. Father Middleton's unwavering dedication to his vocation led to his capture and subsequent martyrdom.
On 6 May 1590, Father Anthony Middleton was hanged, drawn, and quartered in London, England, for his refusal to renounce the Catholic faith. His courageous stand in the face of persecution is a testament to his unwavering commitment to God and the Church.
Blessed Anthony Middleton is honored as one of the Martyrs of Douai, and his feast day is celebrated on 6 May. On 29 October, he is also remembered collectively with other Douai martyrs who suffered for their faith. Their collective sacrifice stands as a powerful witness to the resilience and steadfastness of Catholics during this tumultuous period in English history.
In recognition of his martyrdom, Pope Pius XI venerated Blessed Anthony Middleton on 8 December 1929, issuing a decree of martyrdom. On the same day, he beatified Father Middleton, officially recognizing his sanctity and his inspirational example of faith, courage, and selflessness.