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Feast Day: October 1
Death: October 1, 1
Blessed John Robinson, also known as Blessed John Robinson of Ferrensby, was a married layman who lived in England during the period of religious persecution under Queen Elizabeth I. He was born around 1530 in Ferrensby, West Riding, Yorkshire, England.
John led a fulfilling family life, and his son Francis eventually entered the priesthood, following in the footsteps of his father. However, tragedy struck when John became a widower. This event prompted him to embark on a spiritual journey, and he decided to study for the priesthood himself at the seminary in Reims, France.
In the year 1585, when John was in his fifties, he was ordained as a Catholic priest. Filled with a deep sense of mission and devotion, he returned to England to serve his old neighbors at a time when the practice of Catholicism was harshly persecuted. The Catholic faith was heavily suppressed, and priests faced great danger and risk of capture for carrying out their religious duties.
Due to his commitment to bringing solace and spiritual support to the oppressed Catholic community in England, John was seen as a threat by the authorities. He was apprehended in Lowestoft and subsequently imprisoned in London for a period of two years. Despite the hardships he endured during his captivity, John remained resolute in his faith and determined to fulfill his vocation as a priest.
Sadly, on October 1, 1588, John was subjected to an incredibly cruel fate. He was hanged, drawn, and quartered in Ipswich, Suffolk, England, for the "crime" of being a Catholic priest. This gruesome execution, reserved for those deemed guilty of treason against the crown, was a testament to the intensity of religious persecution prevalent during that era.
Blessed John Robinson is considered a martyr for his unwavering commitment to his priestly calling and his dedication to the Catholic community in England. His devout faith and sacrificial service have made him an inspiration for Catholics throughout history.
Recognizing his sanctity and martyrdom, Pope Pius XI formally declared John Robinson a martyr on December 8, 1929, through a decree of martyrdom. Moreover, on December 15, 1929, Pope Pius XI beatified him. Today, he is venerated as a blessed within the Catholic Church.
Blessed John Robinson is remembered and celebrated on several feast days, including October 1 as the day of his execution, October 29 as one of the Martyrs of Douai, and October 29 as one of the Martyrs of Douai. His courageous witness and sacrifice serve as a reminder of the steadfastness of faith even in the face of persecution.