Saint Polydore Plasden

Biography

Saint Polydore Plasden, also known as Oliver Palmer, was born in 1563 in London, England. He came from a humble background, being the son of a horn maker. Despite his simple beginnings, Polydore had a great desire to serve God and the Catholic Church. At a young age, Polydore entered the priesthood and pursued his studies at the English College in Rheims, France, and later at the English College in Rome, Italy. It was during this time that he received his ordination on 7 December 1586. Filled with zeal, he returned to England to minister to covert Catholics who were facing persecution under the rule of Queen Elizabeth I. The situation for Catholics in England at that time was dire. Catholicism was suppressed, and it was illegal for Catholic priests to carry out their ministry. Despite the risks, Polydore was determined to uphold the Catholic faith and provide spiritual guidance to those in need. He often celebrated Mass in secret and was actively involved in supporting the faithful during these troubled times. On 2 November 1591, tragedy struck when Polydore was arrested at the home of Saint Swithun Wells in Gray’s Inn Fields. He was detained while Saint Edmund Gennings was in the midst of celebrating Mass. The charge against him was simply being a priest, a crime punishable by death. After his arrest, Polydore was imprisoned and subjected to harsh interrogation and torture. Despite the suffering he endured, he remained steadfast in his faith and refused to renounce his priesthood. He was ultimately condemned to death and executed by being hanged, drawn, and quartered on 10 December 1591 in Tyburn, London. Saint Polydore Plasden's martyrdom was a powerful testimony to his unwavering commitment to his faith and his dedication to serving the Catholic community in England. His courage and sacrifice inspired many others during a time of great persecution for Catholics. Recognizing his heroic virtues, Pope Pius XI declared Polydore Plasden venerable on 8 December 1929, followed by his beatification on 15 December of the same year. Later, on 25 October 1970, Pope Paul VI canonized him as a saint. Saint Polydore Plasden is commemorated on multiple feast days: 10 December as his main feast day, 1 December as one of the Martyrs of the English College, and 25 October as one of the Forty Martyrs of England and Wales. While not associated with any specific patronage, Saint Polydore Plasden stands as a shining example of faith, strength, and martyrdom for Catholics around the world.