Saint Robert Southwell

Biography

Saint Robert Southwell, also known as Saint Robert Southwell of Norwich, was born in 1561 in Horsham Saint Faith, Norfolk, England. He came from a family deeply devoted to their Catholic faith and received a pious upbringing. After completing his early education, Southwell traveled to Douai and later to Paris, France, where he continued his studies. In 1580, Southwell made the life-changing decision to join the Society of Jesus, commonly known as the Jesuits. He became a member of this renowned religious order and dedicated himself to the service of God and the Church. Southwell's intellectual abilities were recognized, leading him to be appointed as the prefect of studies in the English College at Rome, Italy. During this time, he also received ordination as a priest in 1584. His desire to minister to covert Catholics in his homeland eventually led Southwell to return to England in 1586. He worked alongside Henry Garnett in providing pastoral care and spiritual aid to the Catholic community. Southwell's ministry continued to expand, leading him to become the chaplain to Ann Howard, the wife of Saint Philip Howard, in 1589. Throughout his life, Saint Robert Southwell was deeply committed to spreading and defending the Catholic faith. He authored numerous pamphlets and writings focused on guiding individuals in leading pious lives. His literary skills were renowned, and his works became highly influential in the Catholic community. However, Southwell's unwavering dedication to his faith eventually led to his arrest in 1595. Accused of the crime of being a Catholic priest, he was subjected to severe torture in the hopes of extracting information about other priests. Despite enduring unimaginable suffering, Southwell remained steadfast in his faith and refused to divulge any information. Imprisoned in the Tower of London for three agonizing years, Southwell continued to study the Bible and write poetry during intervals between brutal torture sessions. His spirit remained unbroken and he drew strength from his unwavering faith in God. Finally, Southwell was brought to trial and convicted of treason, largely due to his admission that he had administered the Sacraments. On 21 February 1595, he was hanged, drawn, and quartered at Tyburn in London. Miraculously, even in the face of death, Southwell made the sign of the cross repeatedly. Onlookers, moved by his courage and faith, tugged at his legs to hasten his death. Saint Robert Southwell was recognized for his exceptional piety and courage in the face of persecution. On 8 December 1929, he was venerated by Pope Pius XI. Later that month, on 15 December, he was beatified by the same pontiff. Finally, on 25 October 1970, Pope Paul VI canonized him as a saint. Though Saint Robert Southwell is not associated with a specific patronage, his life serves as an inspiration to all who face adversity and persecution for their faith. His unwavering devotion, courage, and intellectual contributions make him a remarkable figure in Catholic history and a shining example of living a life united with God.