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Feast Day: August 30
Death: August 1, 30
Blessed Richard Leigh, also known as Richard Garth and Richard Earth, was born around 1561 in Cambridgeshire, England. He received his education at Rheims and Rome, where he dedicated himself to the Catholic faith. In February 1586, Richard was ordained as a priest in Rome, and he returned to England as a home missioner later that same year.
His mission to spread the Catholic faith in England was met with opposition, as religious tensions ran high during this period. Richard's strong convictions led him to face numerous challenges and persecution for his faith. In 1586, he was arrested in London for his religious beliefs and subsequently exiled. However, undaunted by the risks, Richard returned to England to continue his mission of spreading Catholicism.
His courage and dedication to his faith eventually led to his arrest once again in 1588. Richard was imprisoned in the Tower of London in June of that year, enduring harsh conditions and limited freedoms. He was convicted in a trial held at the Old Bailey for the crime of priesthood, as it was prohibited by the English authorities at the time.
Despite the threat to his life, Richard Leigh steadfastly refused to renounce his Catholic beliefs, remaining true to his calling as a priest. On August 30, 1588, he was martyred at Tyburn in London. Richard was hanged, drawn, and quartered, a brutal punishment inflicted upon those considered traitors by the English monarchy.
Blessed Richard Leigh's unwavering faith and strong conviction made him a symbol of martyrdom. His sacrifice is honored and celebrated in the Catholic Church, and he is venerated as a martyr. On December 8, 1929, Pope Pius XI officially decreed his martyrdom, and Richard was beatified by the same pope on December 15, 1929.
His life serves as an inspiration for Catholics around the world, reminding them of the importance of remaining steadfast in the face of persecution and adversity. Blessed Richard Leigh's memory continues to be cherished, and his feast day is celebrated on August 30th.