Blessed John Duckett

Biography

Blessed John Duckett, also known as Blessed John Duckett of Sedbergh, was born in 1603 in Underwinder, Yorkshire, England. He was a relative of Blessed James Duckett, possibly his grandson.

John Duckett received his education at Douai, France, and was ordained as a Catholic priest in 1639. He furthered his studies at the College of Arras in Paris, France, spending three years there deepening his knowledge and spiritual formation.

In 1642, Blessed John Duckett began ministering to covert Catholics in Durham, England, during a time when the practice of Catholicism was prohibited and persecuted. Despite the dangers, he actively provided support and sacraments to the Catholic community, offering them solace and guidance in their faith.

However, on 2 July 1644, tragedy struck when John Duckett, along with Blessed Ralph Corby, was apprehended by Roundhead soldiers at Redgate Head near Wolsingham, England. They were arrested while en route to baptize two children and were charged with the crime of being Catholic priests.

Both men were offered a single reprieve, but they each selflessly refused it, insisting that the other be freed instead. They displayed immense courage and loyalty to one another, choosing martyrdom over personal freedom. As a result, they were sentenced to death.

On 7 September 1644, Blessed John Duckett faced the gruesome fate of being hanged, drawn, and quartered at Tyburn in London, England. His willingness to endure such a brutal execution for the sake of his faith and the Catholic community attests to his unwavering commitment to his calling.

Following his martyrdom, relics of Blessed John Duckett were preserved in the form of his hand and clothing. Unfortunately, their exact location was lost over time.

Recognizing his exemplary witness and sacrifice, Pope Pius XI declared him venerable on 8 December 1929. Later that month, on 15 December 1929, Pope Pius XI beatified him, a formal acknowledgment of his martyrdom and the holiness of his life.

Today, Blessed John Duckett is honored as one of the Martyrs of Douai, and his feast days are celebrated on 7 September and 29 October. His story serves as a reminder of the enduring faith and courage exhibited by Catholic priests during a turbulent period in English history.