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Feast Day: November 26
Death: November 1, 26
Blessed Marmaduke Bowes, also known as Blessed Marmaduke Bowes of Ingram Grange, was born in Ingram Grange, Yorkshire, England, during a tumultuous period in English history. A devout Catholic, he lived during a time of severe persecution of Catholics in England. Marmaduke Bowes was a married layman and a loving father, deeply concerned about the safety and well-being of his family amidst the religious turmoil of the day.
Because of the intense persecution faced by Catholics, Bowes adopted a clandestine lifestyle, practicing his Catholic faith in secret while outwardly conforming to the Established Church to avoid raising suspicion among the authorities. He went to great lengths to protect and support priests who were on the run, offering them shelter and assistance whenever possible.
To ensure the continuation of the Catholic faith within his family, Bowes made sure his children were raised as Catholics. He employed a tutor to educate his children in matters of faith and doctrine. Unfortunately, in 1585, this tutor was arrested and coerced into apostatizing, turning into an informer, and denouncing Bowes for aiding and abetting Catholic priests.
As a result of the tutor's accusations, both Marmaduke Bowes and his wife were arrested and imprisoned in York. While his wife was eventually released, Marmaduke Bowes was convicted solely on the statements of the treacherous tutor. He became the first layman to be executed under the law that made assisting priests a felony.
On November 26, 1585, Marmaduke Bowes faced a martyr's death when he was hanged in York, Yorkshire, England. His unwavering faith and commitment to the Catholic Church, even in the face of persecution, earned him the status of a martyr.
Blessed Marmaduke Bowes is celebrated as a martyr on November 26. Additionally, he is recognized as one of the Martyrs of England, Scotland, and Wales, with a shared feast day on November 22.
In recognition of his sacrifice and steadfast faith, Pope John Paul II declared Marmaduke Bowes venerable on November 10, 1986, and beatified him on November 22, 1987.
Blessed Marmaduke Bowes stands as an example of unwavering devotion to his Catholic faith even in the face of persecution and adversity. His courage and sacrifice inspire Catholics around the world to remain steadfast in their beliefs and to protect and defend their faith, even in challenging times.