English Martyrs

In present days, the number of people who are being martyred for their faith in Jesus Christ is the greater then in times past. Yesterday (4 May 2021) we remembered, in particular, the 42 canonised martyrs of the Reformation, the 242 who have been declared Blessed and the uncounted others who died on the scaffold, perished in prison, or were persecuted for their faith.

The martyrs we commemorate on this feast came from every walk of life. There were rich and poor; married and single; men and women. They are remembered for the example they gave of constancy in their faith and courage in the face of persecution.

In October 2020 - remembering the fiftieth anniversary of the canonisation of the forty martyrs of England and Wales - we produced a resource which might be used in parishes, small groups or by individuals.

Forty Martyrs of England and Wales by Daphne Pollen

Free Video Rental: Faith of Our Fathers

To mark this feast and the witness of our martyred brothers and sisters in Faith, we are delighted to offer you a free rental of the video Faith of Our Fathers by St Anthony Communications. To get the free rental, click on the button below and then click on ‘Rent’ followed by ‘Apply promo code’ and enter FAITH21. Thanks to Christian Holden for his generosity in providing for this free rental which will last until 11 May 2021.

Let Us Pray

God our Father, you raised up martyr-saints among our countrymen from every walk of life. The vindicated the authority of your Church in teaching and worship. Through their prayers may our whole nation be gathered once again to celebrate the same sacraments under one Pastor. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.