Saint Mari

Biography

Saint Henry Morse, also known as Henry Mowse, was born in 1549 in Brome, Suffolk, England. He is revered as a convert and one of the Forty Martyrs of England and Wales. At a young age, Henry displayed a strong devotion to his faith and a desire to serve God. Recognizing his calling, he embarked on a journey to Rome, Italy, to study for the priesthood. There, he immersed himself in theological studies, preparing himself for a life dedicated to God. In 1626, Henry joined the Society of Jesus, commonly known as the Jesuits. The Jesuits were renowned for their missionary work and commitment to the Catholic Church. With his fervent spirit and unwavering faith, Henry felt a deep calling to bring the Catholic faith back to his homeland, England, where Catholicism was heavily suppressed. Returning to England, Henry worked as a covert priest in London, ministering to the underground Catholic community. During this time, he also advanced his work as a missionary, reaching out to individuals affected by the plague in 1636. Unfortunately, while caring for the plague-stricken, Henry himself contracted the virus. Miraculously, he recovered, attributing his healing to the intercession of Saints John Fisher and Thomas More. Despite the risks involved in his mission, Henry remained steadfast in his dedication and continued his priestly duties. However, his efforts were not without challenges. In 1638, a treacherous informer betrayed Henry to the authorities, leading to his brief imprisonment. Despite this setback, he persevered, undeterred in his mission to serve God and the Catholic faithful. Henry Morse's ministry extended beyond London, as he traveled throughout the countryside of southern England, ministering to those in need. His compassion and dedication to his flock earned him great respect and admiration from all who encountered him. However, in 1647, Henry's unwavering commitment to Catholicism caught the attention of the anti-Catholic authorities. He was arrested and unjustly convicted, facing the charge of practicing Catholicism. Despite the immense pressure to renounce his faith, Henry stood firm in his beliefs, even throughout his unjust trial and subsequent imprisonment. On 1 February 1645, at Tyburn, London, Henry Morse was tragically hanged, drawn, and quartered. His unwavering faith and martyrdom served as a testament to his devotion to the Catholic Church and his willingness to sacrifice his life for his beliefs. Henry Morse, along with his fellow English and Welsh martyrs, was officially recognized and venerated by Pope Pius XI on 8 December 1929. Later, on 15 December 1929, he was beatified by the same pope and canonized on 25 October 1970 by Pope Paul VI. Today, Saint Henry Morse is celebrated on several feast days: 1 February, the day of his martyrdom; 25 October, as one of the Forty Martyrs of England and Wales; and 29 October, as one of the Martyrs of Douai. Though his patronage is not specifically identified, his life and sacrifice serve as an inspiration for all Catholics who face persecution and adversity for their faith.