Blessed Peter Wright

Biography

Blessed Peter Wright, born in 1603 in Slipton, Northamptonshire, England, was born into a Protestant family. However, he later converted to Catholicism and dedicated his life to the service of God.

Before entering the religious life, Peter worked in a country lawyer's office for ten years. However, his ardent faith and desire to deepen his spiritual journey led him to enlist in the army. Assigned to the Netherlands, he soon deserted after only a month, feeling a stronger calling towards the priesthood.

Peter's pursuit of his vocation led him to the Jesuit seminary in Ghent, Belgium, where he dedicated himself to his studies. He later continued his theological education in Rome, Italy. After completing his studies, Peter was ordained a priest.

In 1629, Peter joined the Society of Jesus, commonly known as the Jesuits, in Watten, Belgium. He held various positions within the order, including posts in Liege, Belgium, and Saint-Omer. He also served as a chaplain to English soldiers in Flanders, Belgium.

In the spring of 1644, Peter returned to England with Sir Henry Gage, where he became a chaplain to the Royalist army during the English Civil War. His unwavering dedication to his faith and the soldiers he served brought great comfort and inspiration during this challenging period.

However, during the post-war oppression of Catholicism in England under Oliver Cromwell's rule, Peter's adherence to his Catholic beliefs led to his arrest. On Candlemas Day, February 2, 1651, he was apprehended in London and imprisoned in Newgate prison.

Despite being held in captivity, Peter's steadfast faith remained unshaken. On May 19, 1651, also known as Whit Monday, he was martyred for his Catholic faith at Tyburn, London. According to the sentence passed, Peter was to be hanged, drawn, and quartered. However, due to the fear of a strong reaction from the large crowd of approximately 20,000 spectators, the authorities spared him from the other tortures, and he was allowed to hang until death.

Recognizing Peter's unwavering dedication and sacrifice, Pope Pius XI issued a decree of martyrdom on December 8, 1929, and subsequently, on December 15, 1929, beatified him. Today, Blessed Peter Wright is venerated as a martyr for his Catholic faith.

His feast day is celebrated on May 19, commemorating the day of his martyrdom. Though there is no specific information about his representations or any other notable events in his life, his unwavering commitment to his faith and his sacrifice serve as an inspiration to all Catholics.