Edmund Catherick facts for kids

Edmund Catherick (born around 1605 – died April 13, 1642) was an English Roman Catholic priest. He is known as a Catholic martyr, a person who died for their religious beliefs. He was declared "Blessed" by the Pope in 1929.

Who Was Edmund Catherick?

Edmund Catherick was likely born in Lancashire, England, around 1605. His family, the Cathericks, were Catholics from Carlton and Stanwick in Yorkshire.

Becoming a Priest

Edmund studied at Douai College, a special school in France for English Catholics. At Douai, he became a priest. Around 1635, he returned to England to serve the Catholic community. At this time, being a Catholic priest in England was very dangerous. He worked secretly for about seven years. During this time, he often used a different name, Huddleston, which might have been his mother's family name.

Arrest and Trial

Edmund Catherick was arrested in North Yorkshire. He was taken before a local judge. He was then brought to York and put on trial. He was found guilty and sentenced to death along with another priest, Father John Lockwood.

His Final Days

King Charles I of England briefly delayed their execution. However, the king eventually allowed it to happen. Edmund Catherick and John Lockwood were taken through the streets of York to the place where they would be executed. They were put to death for their Catholic faith. Edmund Catherick's head was displayed on Micklegate Bar, a famous gate in York. His body was buried nearby. Later, some of his remains were moved to St. Gregory's Monastery, Downside.

See also

• Catholic Church in the United Kingdom
• Douai Martyrs