Blessed Thomas Atkinson

Biography

Blessed Thomas Atkinson, also known as Thomas Lancaster, was a Catholic priest and martyr during the Elizabethan era in England. He was born in Menthorpe, North Yorkshire, England, and his exact birth date is unknown.

Thomas Atkinson pursued his education and priesthood at the English College of Rheims, France. After completing his studies, he was ordained as a priest in Rheims and developed a strong commitment to serving the covert Catholic community in his homeland, England. In 1588, he returned to England, fully aware of the risks he would face as a Catholic priest during this intense period of religious persecution.

Upon his return to England, Blessed Thomas Atkinson dedicated himself to ministering to the Catholic faithful who were forced to practice their faith in secret. Knowing that his life was constantly at risk, Atkinson adopted a nocturnal lifestyle, often traveling by night and seeking refuge in concealed locations during the day. Despite the dangers and hardships he faced, he tirelessly served his flock for several decades, providing spiritual guidance, administering sacraments in secret, and offering hope to those who risked their lives to remain faithful to Catholicism.

Unfortunately, Blessed Thomas Atkinson's clandestine activities did not go unnoticed by the authorities. At some point, he was betrayed, and the family with whom he was hiding was also arrested. On 11 March 1616, Thomas Atkinson was apprehended in York, England, and accused of the crime of priesthood. He was subsequently subjected to the brutal punishment of being hanged, drawn, and quartered.

Blessed Thomas Atkinson is recognized as one of the 85 Martyrs of England, Scotland, and Wales, who sacrificed their lives for their Catholic faith during the Elizabethan and Jacobean era. Their unwavering commitment to their religious beliefs earned them beatification. On 22 November 1987, Pope John Paul II officially declared Thomas Atkinson blessed, recognizing his martyrdom and heroic virtues. His feast day is celebrated on 11 March as one of the 85 Martyrs of England, Scotland, and Wales. Additionally, he is venerated on 29 October as one of the Martyrs of Douai, which was a significant center for English Catholicism on the Continent during that period.

Blessed Thomas Atkinson's life and martyrdom serve as a poignant reminder of the persecution endured by Catholics in England during the Elizabethan era. His unwavering dedication and ultimate sacrifice continue to inspire and strengthen the faith of many.