Blessed John Rugg

Biography

Blessed John Rugg, also known as Blessed John Rugg of Reading, was an esteemed figure in the Catholic Church known for his unwavering faith and his dedication to preserving the relics of the saints. Born in England, little is known about his early life and background.

John Rugg first gained recognition as a former fellow of the two Saint Mary Winton colleges. He later became a priest and was appointed as the first holder of the Wykehamical prebend "Bursalis" at the Chichester Cathedral. However, John obtained a dispensation from residence, which allowed him to live as a Benedictine monk at Reading, Berkshire, England, in 1532.

During a tumultuous time in England's history, when tensions ran high between the Catholic Church and the royal establishment, John Rugg faced immense challenges. He is believed to have played a critical role in hiding the hand of Saint Anastasius, a precious relic housed in Reading Abbey. The king's men had seized the relics, but John managed to protect this valuable artifact. The hand of Saint Anastasius, concealed by his efforts, remained hidden until its rediscovery during renovations in 1786.

John Rugg's actions, in addition to his staunch refusal to acknowledge the king as the head of the Church, ultimately led to his martyrdom. On November 15, 1539, he was dragged through the streets of Reading, Berkshire, and taken to the main abbey gateway. There, he was hanged, drawn, and quartered, a brutal execution method employed for those deemed guilty of high treason. As a warning to others, his body was left to rot in his chains.

However, the locals, recognizing his sacrifice, reclaimed his body and buried it initially at Bere Court, a gesture that demonstrated their veneration for him. In the 16th century, his relics were re-interred, allowing for continued veneration of his memory.

It was not until May 13, 1895, that John Rugg was officially recognized for his martyrdom and exemplary life of faith. Pope Leo XIII beatified him, bestowing upon him the title of Blessed John Rugg.

Today, Blessed John Rugg serves as an inspiration and a reminder of the immense courage and unwavering commitment to his faith amidst challenging times. His story sheds light on the trials faced by Catholics during the Reformation era, as well as their persistence in upholding their beliefs, even at the cost of their own lives.