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Feast Day: October 5
Death: October 1, 5
Blessed William Hart, also known as Blessed William Hartley, was born in 1558 in Wells, England. He was raised in a Protestant family and received his education at Lincoln College, Oxford. However, his spiritual journey led him to convert to Catholicism.
Following his conversion, Blessed William Hart felt a calling to the priesthood and pursued his studies at the English College in Douai, France. Later, he continued his formation at the English College in Rheims and the English College in Rome, Italy. In 1581, he was ordained a Catholic priest.
Returning to England, Blessed William Hart dedicated himself to ministering to covert Catholics who were facing persecution during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. His sincere faith and commitment to his flock made him loved and appreciated among the Catholic community.
Unfortunately, his noble efforts were eventually betrayed by an apostate while he was visiting the house of Saint Margaret Clitherow in York. This betrayal led to his arrest, imprisonment, and subsequent martyrdom.
On March 15, 1583, in York, North Yorkshire, England, Blessed William Hart was put on trial for his Catholic beliefs and was condemned to death. Despite the opportunity to renounce his faith and save his life, he courageously chose to remain steadfast in his commitment to Catholicism. He was executed as a martyr, becoming one of the many individuals who sacrificed their lives in defense of their religious convictions during this turbulent period in English history.
Blessed William Hart is honored as one of the Martyrs of Douai and the Martyrs of Oxford University, both for his education and for his martyrdom. His feast day is celebrated on March 15 and also on October 29 as one of the Martyrs of Douai, and on December 1 as one of the Martyrs of Oxford University.
Blessed William Hart remained relatively unknown for centuries following his death, but his sanctity and martyrdom were officially recognized by the Catholic Church. On December 29, 1886, Pope Leo XIII beatified him, confirming his cultus and granting him the title of "Blessed."
Today, Blessed William Hart's life and sacrifice continue to inspire and serve as a testament to the strength and conviction of Catholics who faced persecution for their faith during the English Reformation. He stands as a role model for all those who strive to defend their religious beliefs, even in the face of great adversity.