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Feast Day: May 28
Blessed John Shert, also known as John Curson or John Thacker, was born in Shert Hall, near Macclesfield, Cheshire, England. Little is known about his early life, but it is recorded that he was educated at Brasenose College, Oxford, graduating in 1566. After completing his studies, he worked as a schoolmaster in London, England.
At some point in his life, John Shert converted to Catholicism and became a devoted servant to Dr. Thomas Stapleton at Douai, France. He continued his studies there and later in Rome, Italy. In 1576, he was ordained at the English College in Rome, and following his ordination, he returned to England on 27 August 1579, determined to minister to covert Catholics and support the Catholic cause.
Unfortunately, during this time, England was undergoing a period of intense religious persecution, particularly against Catholic priests who were seen as threats to the Anglican establishment. On 14 July 1581, John Shert was arrested for the crime of being a Catholic priest and was taken to the Tower of London.
Despite harsh interrogations and being subjected to terrible conditions in the Tower, John Shert remained steadfast in his faith. He refused to renounce his Catholicism or betray his fellow Catholics to the authorities. His unwavering commitment to his beliefs and dedication to his ministry earned him the status of a martyr.
The exact details surrounding John Shert's death are unclear from the provided information. However, his bravery and sacrifice have been recognized and venerated by the Catholic Church. Pope Leo XIII beatified him on 29 December 1886, acknowledging his martyrdom and confirming the cultus attributed to him.
Blessed John Shert is remembered and honored as one of the Martyrs of Douai and Oxford University. His feast days are celebrated on 28 May and 29 October as one of the Martyrs of Douai, and on 1 December as one of the Martyrs of Oxford University. His life serves as an inspiration to Catholics around the world, as he exemplifies the unwavering faith and courage of those who stood firm in their beliefs during a tumultuous period in English history.