Blessed Thomas Watkinson

Biography

Blessed Thomas Watkinson, also known as Thomas Atkinson, was a devout Catholic layman and family man who lived during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I in England. Born in Menthorpe, North Yorkshire, England, little is known about his early life and background.

Thomas Watkinson was a devoted Catholic who adhered steadfastly to his faith during a time of intense persecution against Catholics in England. In the late 16th century, England was undergoing significant religious turmoil, with the Catholic Church being suppressed and the Protestant Church of England being imposed as the state religion. Queen Elizabeth I, who reigned from 1558 to 1603, carried out a series of harsh measures against Catholics, including fines, imprisonment, and execution for those who refused to conform to the Anglican Church.

Despite the risks involved, Blessed Thomas Watkinson fearlessly provided aid and shelter to covert Catholic priests who were hunted down and persecuted by the authorities. His home became a haven for priests, allowing them to celebrate Mass and minister to the spiritual needs of the Catholic faithful. By providing this critical support, Thomas played a significant role in preserving the Catholic faith in England during one of its most difficult periods.

Unfortunately, Thomas's clandestine activities did not go unnoticed. He was eventually arrested for harboring Catholic priests and was charged with the crime of "harboring and maintaining Jesuits and seminary priests." After enduring a long period of imprisonment, Thomas Watkinson faced a horrific fate on 31 May 1591 in York, North Yorkshire, England. He was subjected to the brutal punishment of being hanged, drawn, and quartered, a medieval method of execution reserved for traitors. Despite this terrible ordeal, Thomas remained steadfast in his faith until the end.

Blessed Thomas Watkinson's courage and sacrifice have since been recognized and celebrated by the Catholic Church. On 10 November 1986, Pope John Paul II decreed his martyrdom, acknowledging the supreme act of faith Thomas had shown. He was subsequently beatified by the same pope on 22 November 1987. His feast day is celebrated on 31 May, the day of his martyrdom, and as one of the Martyrs of England, Scotland, and Wales, he is remembered on 22 November.

Blessed Thomas Watkinson's life serves as a testament to the unwavering devotion of lay Catholics during a period of intense persecution. His selfless acts of support for priests and his unyielding faith in the face of adversity inspire us to remain steadfast in our own beliefs and to stand up for justice and truth.