Blessed Edward Oldcorne

Biography

Blessed Edward Oldcorne, also known as Father Edward Oldcorne, was a Jesuit priest who dedicated his life to the Catholic faith during a time of marked persecution in England. Born in 1561 in York, North Yorkshire, England, he would go on to become a faithful servant of God and a martyr for his beliefs.

Edward Oldcorne joined the Society of Jesus in 1587 after being ordained as a priest in Rome, Italy. He then devoted himself to the English mission, working tirelessly in Worcestershire for a period of 16 years. Despite the challenges and dangers posed by the anti-Catholic sentiment of the time, Father Edward remained steadfast in his commitment to spreading the Gospel.

In the course of his ministry, Edward developed throat cancer. However, his illness did not deter him from fulfilling his duties as a priest. Despite the pain he endured, he continued preaching and ministering to the faithful, offering them comfort and guidance.

Desiring a cure for his cancer, Father Edward embarked on a pilgrimage to the shrine of Saint Winifred of Wales in Flintshire. Miraculously, his fervent prayers were answered, and he experienced a complete healing. Strengthened in body and spirit, he returned to his vocation with renewed vigor.

Unfortunately, the plot known as the Gunpowder Plot unfolded in 1605, which aimed to blow up the king and parliament. This event provided a pretext for increased persecution of Catholics, particularly Jesuits. As a result, Edward Oldcorne became a target of this renewed hostility.

False accusations were leveled against Edward, and he was apprehended and subjected to unimaginable torture on the rack. For five days, he endured excruciating pain in an attempt to extract information related to the failed conspiracy. Despite the torment, Father Edward remained steadfast in his commitment to protect the confidences entrusted to him.

Ultimately, on April 7, 1607, Edward Oldcorne met his martyr's death. He was hanged, drawn, and quartered in Worcester, Worcestershire, England, as a result of the false accusations. In his final moments, he stood firm in his faith, drawing strength from his intimate connection with God.

In recognition of his heroic virtue and sacrifice, Pope Pius XI declared Edward Oldcorne a martyr on December 8, 1929. On the same day, he was beatified by the same Pope, as the Roman Catholic Church honored his life and example. Blessed Edward Oldcorne stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication of those who, even in the face of persecution, courageously lived out their faith.

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