Blessed Richard Langhorne

Biography

Blessed Richard Langhorne, born around 1635 in Bedford, Bedfordshire, England, was the third son of William Langhorne, a member of the Inner Temple in London, and Lettice Needham, daughter of Eustace Needham of Little Wymondley, Hertfordshire. Following in his father's footsteps, Richard pursued a career in law and was admitted to the Inner Temple in November 1646. He successfully passed the bar examination in 1654.

Richard married Dorothy Legatt, a Protestant Christian from Havering, Essex. The couple settled on Shire Lane in London and were blessed with two sons, Charles and Francis, both of whom later became Catholic priests.

Alongside his legal practice, Richard also provided counsel to the local Jesuits, assisting them with legal and financial matters. However, his involvement with the Jesuits would later have serious consequences for him.

In an unfortunate turn of events, Richard's Catholic faith made him a target of suspicion during a time of heightened anti-Catholic sentiment. On 15 June 1667, he was arrested and suspected of being involved in the great fire of London that occurred in September 1666. However, he was ultimately released.

Subsequently, on 7 October 1678, Richard was arrested again, this time on suspicion of participating in the Popish Plot orchestrated by Titus Oates. He was incarcerated in Newgate Prison, enduring eight months of solitary confinement. Throughout his imprisonment, Richard steadfastly denied any knowledge or involvement in such a plot.

Despite his protestations of innocence, Richard was found guilty on 14 June 1679 of conspiring with the Jesuits to burn London. As a result, he was sentenced to death. On 14 July 1679, Richard Langhorne was hanged at Tyburn, London, England, becoming a martyr for his Catholic faith.

His unwavering devotion and sacrifice did not go unnoticed. On 8 December 1929, Pope Pius XI declared Richard Langhorne venerable, recognizing his martyrdom. Subsequently, on 15 December 1929, Pope Pius XI beatified him, acknowledging his blessedness within the Catholic Church.

Blessed Richard Langhorne's life serves as a testament to his unwavering fidelity to his Catholic beliefs, even in the face of persecution and false accusations. He remains an inspiration and intercessor for those who seek courage and strength in standing up for their faith.