Blessed Francis Ingleby

Biography

Blessed Francis Ingleby, also known as Francesco, was born around 1550 in Ripley, Yorkshire, England. He studied at Rheims, France, and on 21 March 1581, he was ordained as a Catholic priest. Shortly after his ordination, he returned to England in April 1581, when Catholics were facing severe persecution under Queen Elizabeth I's reign.

Blessed Francis Ingleby courageously dedicated himself to the ministry of covert Catholics during this period of persecution. He risked his own safety to provide spiritual support and administer the sacraments to those who remained faithful to their Catholic beliefs. Knowing that the penalty for being a priest was death, he lived a life of constant danger and vigilance.

However, his efforts were not in vain, as he provided solace and strength to countless individuals who sought refuge in their religious convictions. His dedication and unwavering commitment to the Catholic faith inspired many, even in the face of severe adversity.

Despite taking extensive precautions, Blessed Francis Ingleby was eventually apprehended by the authorities. He was arrested, imprisoned, and charged with the crime of being a priest. On 3 June 1586, in York, North Yorkshire, England, he was unjustly condemned to death.

Blessed Francis Ingleby faced his execution with remarkable courage and unwavering faith. He was hanged, drawn, and quartered, a particularly brutal method of execution prevalent at the time. His martyrdom was a testimony to his steadfast devotion to God and the Catholic Church.

Today, Blessed Francis Ingleby is venerated as a martyr, recognized for his heroic sacrifice and witness to the Catholic faith. He is remembered and celebrated on various feast days: 3 June; 29 October as one of the Martyrs of Douai; and 22 November as one of the Martyrs of England, Scotland, and Wales.

In recognition of his martyrdom, Pope John Paul II declared Blessed Francis Ingleby's veneration on 10 November 1986. A year later, on 22 November 1987, Pope John Paul II beatified him, affirming his sanctity and granting him the title of "Blessed."

Blessed Francis Ingleby's life serves as a profound example of unwavering faith, bravery, and dedication to one's beliefs, even in the face of intense persecution. His story stands as a testament to the enduring power of the Catholic faith and the remarkable sacrifices made by those who remain committed to their religious convictions.