Blessed Dermot Ohurley

Biography

Blessed Dermot Ohurley, also known as Saint Dermit or Diarmaid Ó Hiarlatha, was born around 1530 in Emly, County Tipperary, Ireland. He came from a wealthy family, being the son of William O’Brien O’Hurley and Honoria. Dermot's early education began in his hometown, and he later embarked on further studies at the University of Leuven in Belgium. It was at Leuven that he obtained his law degree and eventually became the Dean of the law school, a position he held for 15 years.

After his successful tenure at Leuven, Dermot ventured to Rheims, France, where he spent four years teaching. His knowledge and expertise in law made him a respected figure in academia during this time. However, Dermot's life took a momentous turn when he was chosen by Pope Gregory XIII to be the Archbishop of Cashel, Ireland, despite still being a layman. The Pope granted him this appointment in 1581, and Dermot received the pallium, a symbol of his authority, on 27 November of the same year.

Understanding the dangerous political climate in Ireland at that time, Dermot returned to his homeland in secret. Aware of the Protestant authorities' watchful eyes, he actively kept on the move to avoid capture. Unfortunately, when authorities finally caught up with him, Dermot chose to surrender in order to protect one of his hosts from facing trouble with the law. This act of selflessness demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the well-being of others.

Following his capture, Dermot endured imprisonment, torture, and a painful execution. He was a victim of the religious persecutions carried out during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. The charge brought against him was the treasonous act of refusing to acknowledge the queen as the head of the Church. His steadfast adherence to his Catholic beliefs and refusal to compromise his principles led to his martyrdom.

Blessed Dermot Ohurley's feast day is commemorated on June 20th, a day that honors his martyrdom. After being hanged on June 20, 1584, at Hoggen Green (modern College Green) in Dublin, Ireland, Dermot was laid to rest at the church of Saint Kevin in Dublin. In recognition of his holiness and sacrifice, he was venerated on July 6, 1991, by Pope John Paul II. Subsequently, on September 27, 1992, Pope John Paul II beatified Dermot in Rome, Italy.

As a saint, Blessed Dermot Ohurley serves as an inspiration to the faithful, showcasing fortitude and unwavering devotion to the Catholic Church even in the face of persecution. May he continue to intercede for us and inspire us to remain steadfast in our own faith journeys.