Blessed John Kearney

Biography

Blessed John Kearney, also known as Seán √ì Cearnaigh, was born in 1619 in Cashel, Tipperary, Ireland, to John Kearney and Elizabeth Creagh. He grew up in a devout Catholic family during a time of religious persecution in Ireland.

Inspired by his faith, John decided to join the Franciscan Friars Minor (Observants). In pursuit of his vocation, he entered the novitiate at Kilkenny, Ireland, and subsequently moved to Leuven, Belgium in 1638 to further his studies at the seminary.

After years of dedicated learning, John Kearney was ordained as a Catholic priest in Brussels, Belgium, in 1642. He felt called to return to his homeland, Ireland, to minister to the faithful and contribute to the Catholic community amidst the prevailing anti-Catholic sentiment.

However, on his journey back to Ireland in 1644, John was arrested in London, England. He endured torture and was condemned to death due to his Catholic priesthood. Courageously, he managed to escape his captors and made his way to France, seeking refuge and safety for his vocation.

Finally, after a perilous journey, John Kearney traveled from Calais to Wexford, Ireland, where he could fulfill his priestly ministry under constant threat. He taught philosophy in Cashel and served as the novice master in Waterford, all the while living his vocation despite being a wanted man.

John's unwavering dedication and commitment to his faith led to his arrest in Tipperary in early 1653, on the old charge of being a Catholic priest in England. Despite the risks, he remained steadfast in his defense and proclamation of the Catholic faith.

Tragically, on 11th March 1653, in Clonmel, Ireland, John Kearney was hanged for his steadfast commitment to his priesthood and the Catholic faith. In a final act of martyrdom, his body was burned. His courageous witness and sacrifice exemplify his unwavering devotion to God and the Catholic Church.

It is important to note that Blessed John Kearney, along with many other Irish Martyrs, suffered greatly for their faith during a time of religious persecution. Their heroic witness serves as an inspiration for Catholics around the world.

Recognizing his martyrdom, Pope John Paul II, on the 6th of July 1991, bestowed the veneration of Blessed upon John Kearney. This veneration was further elevated when Pope John Paul II beatified him on the 27th of September 1992 in Rome, Italy.

Blessed John Kearney's life is a testament to his unwavering devotion to God, his perseverance in the face of persecution, and his commitment to his priestly vocation. His memory continues to inspire and encourage believers to remain faithful to their Catholic faith, regardless of the challenges they may face.