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Feast Day: June 19
Death: June 1, 19
Blessed Thomas Woodhouse was a devout Catholic priest born in Lincolnshire, England in 1535. He devoted his life to the service of God and the Catholic Church, becoming an influential figure in his community.
As a priest in Lincolnshire, Woodhouse faced intense persecution during a time of religious upheaval in England. He was forced to resign from his position due to the state-sanctioned suppression of Catholicism. Despite this setback, Woodhouse remained steadfast in his faith and continued to minister to the Catholic faithful in secret.
Seeking refuge, Woodhouse left Lincolnshire and became a tutor in Wales. However, his dedication to his faith drew attention, and he was ultimately arrested. On 14 May 1561, he was sent to Fleet Prison on the charge of celebrating Mass, a practice that was prohibited and considered a crime under English law at the time.
For the next nine years, Woodhouse languished in prison, enduring harsh conditions and restrictions on his religious activities. Despite these challenges, he managed to join the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) during his incarceration. As a Jesuit, he actively ministered to his fellow prisoners, offering spiritual guidance and comfort whenever possible.
In a daring act of desperation, on 19 November 1572, Woodhouse convinced the prison washer-woman to deliver a letter to Lord Burghley. In this letter, he implored Burghley to seek reconciliation with the Catholic Church and persuade Queen Elizabeth I to do the same. Woodhouse continued his efforts by writing additional letters and papers, signing them, and attaching them to rocks. He would throw these messages from his prison window, hoping that passersby would spread his message of reconciliation.
Woodhouse's persistent appeals caught the attention of the authorities, resulting in his transfer to Newgate prison a few weeks later. The authorities deemed his writings and actions as treasonous, and he faced trial and conviction for his unwavering loyalty to his faith.
On 19 June 1573, Thomas Woodhouse was cruelly executed at Smithfield in London. He was subjected to the gruesome punishment of being hanged, drawn, and quartered for his refusal to renounce Catholicism. This horrifying death served as a testament to Woodhouse's unyielding commitment to his beliefs and his unwavering dedication to the Catholic Church.
Blessed Thomas Woodhouse is revered as a martyr for the faith. His devotion and courage in the face of persecution inspire countless Catholics around the world. Pope Leo XIII formally beatified him on 29 December 1886, confirming his cultus and acknowledging his sacrifice as a martyr for the Catholic Church.
His feast day is observed on 19 June, commemorating the day of his execution. The life and martyrdom of Blessed Thomas Woodhouse serve as a reminder of the enduring strength of faith in the face of adversity and the sacrifices made by those who remain steadfast in their beliefs.