Saint Eusebius of Lydda

Biography

Saint Alban Bartholomew Roe was born in 1583 in Bury Saint Edmunds, Suffolk, England. He is celebrated as one of the Forty Martyrs of England and Wales and one of the Martyrs of Douai. His life was one marked by unwavering faith, dedication to his mission, and courageous perseverance in the face of persecution. Alban's journey to Catholicism began with his conversion to the faith. He studied at the English College in Douai, France, where he received a solid Catholic education. However, due to an infraction of discipline, he was dismissed from the college. Undeterred by this setback, Alban embraced his calling to the priesthood and joined the Benedictine order. In 1612, he was ordained as a priest in Dieulouard, France. Filled with zeal for spreading the Catholic faith and ministering to the faithful in his homeland, Saint Alban embarked on a mission to England. He knew well the dangers that awaited him, as the English Catholic population faced severe persecution during this time. Nevertheless, Alban fearlessly returned to his country, knowing that it was his purpose to provide spiritual guidance and sacraments to those in need. His clandestine work did not go unnoticed, and in 1615, Saint Alban was arrested and exiled for his Catholic activities. However, his dedication to his mission led him to return to England in 1618, despite the risks. Once again, he faced arrest and was imprisoned for his unwavering commitment to his faith. For several years, Saint Alban endured the harsh conditions of prison, enduring physical and spiritual trials. In 1623, the Spanish ambassador intervened and secured his release with the stipulation that Alban would leave England. Grateful for his freedom, Saint Alban returned to his homeland and continued his covert ministry, providing solace and sacraments to Catholics in hidden locations. However, his respite was short-lived. In 1625, Alban was arrested once again and subjected to a long and arduous imprisonment. For 17 years, he languished in prison, yet his faith and resolve remained unswayed. Finally, in a trial that amounted to a sentence of death, Saint Alban was condemned for the crime of priesthood. On an ill-fated day, Saint Alban Bartholomew Roe, accompanied by another martyr, Blessed Thomas Reynolds, went to their final rest, joining the ranks of the holy martyrs. Their martyrdom is a testament to their unwavering faith in Christ and their undying commitment to the Catholic Church. Saint Alban Bartholomew Roe was venerated on December 8, 1929, by Pope Pius XI, with the decree of martyrdom. He was subsequently beatified on December 15, 1929, by the same pope. Finally, on October 25, 1970, Pope Paul VI canonized him, recognizing his heroic virtues and his selfless sacrifice for the sake of the Gospel. Although no specific patronages have been assigned to Saint Alban, he serves as an inspiring example for all Christians, encouraging them to remain steadfast and dedicated to the faith, even in the face of adversity. His feast days are celebrated on January 21, October 25 (as one of the Forty Martyrs of England and Wales), and October 29 (as one of the Martyrs of Douai).