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Feast Day: March 4
Death: March 1, 4
Blessed Nicholas Horner, also known as Blessed Nicholas Horner, was a lifelong layman and a tailor by trade who lived during the Elizabethan era in England. He was an informal but enthusiastic evangelist for Catholicism, passionately sharing his faith with others.
During his visit to London, England to seek treatment for a leg wound, Nicholas found himself imprisoned in Newgate for the crime of harboring priests, a dangerous activity in a time of religious persecution. Unfortunately, the chains and lack of proper medical care in prison eventually led to the amputation of his injured leg.
However, Nicholas's friends were determined to secure his release and they petitioned for his freedom. Their efforts were successful, and Nicholas was granted his freedom. He resumed his work as a tailor in Smithfield, London, continuing to live his life in accordance with his Catholic faith.
Tragically, Nicholas was once again arrested for harboring priests and was thrown into Bridewell prison. This time, he was tried for the crime of making clothes for a priest, an act that was considered an act of treason against the state. Despite pleas for clemency, Nicholas was sentenced to death.
On 4 March 1590, in front of his own home on Fetter Lane, Smithfield, London, Nicholas Horner was hanged, drawn, and quartered, becoming a martyr for his unwavering commitment to his Catholic faith. His courageous and steadfast devotion to his beliefs made him one of the Martyrs of England, Scotland, and Wales.
Blessed Nicholas Horner is venerated in the Catholic Church and his feast days are celebrated on 4 March and 22 November as one of the Martyrs of England, Scotland, and Wales. Born in Grantley, Yorkshire, England, Nicholas courageously faced martyrdom and his sacrifice has been recognized by the Church.
On 8 December 1929, Pope Pius XI declared Nicholas Horner's martyrdom with a decree, and he was beatified on 15 December 1929 by the same pope. Today, the life and witness of Blessed Nicholas Horner serve as an inspiration and example of steadfast faith and courage in the face of religious persecution.