Edmund Sykes facts for kids

Edmund Sykes was an English Roman Catholic priest who lived a long time ago. He was born in Leeds and died in York on March 23, 1587. He is remembered as a Catholic martyr, which means he died for his religious beliefs. In 1987, he was declared "Blessed" by the Catholic Church.

Edmund Sykes's Story

Early Life and Mission

Edmund Sykes studied at a special college in Reims, France. This college was for English students who wanted to become Catholic priests. At that time, being a Catholic priest in England was very difficult and even dangerous. Edmund became a priest on February 21, 1581. Soon after, he was sent back to England to serve the Catholic community there. This was known as the "English Mission."

He worked in an area called Yorkshire, traveling around for about three years. He often moved from place to place like a pilgrim. His main work was in the area around Leeds.

Facing Challenges

After some time, Edmund's health became very poor. Sadly, a man named Arthur Webster, who had once been Catholic but left the faith, took advantage of Edmund's illness. Webster betrayed Edmund, who was then arrested by the Council of the North. He was taken to a prison in York.

While in prison, Edmund was once forced to attend a Protestant church service. However, he refused to do it again and remained a prisoner. After being held for about six months, he was brought before the council again. They decided to banish him, meaning he had to leave the country. On August 23, 1585, he was sent to Hull Castle and then put on a ship to leave England.

Return and Final Days

Edmund traveled to Rome, where he stayed at the English College for nine days. He wanted to make up for attending the Protestant service. He also thought about joining a religious group. But in the end, he felt it was God's will for him to return to England and continue his mission. He arrived back in Reims on June 10 and left for England just six days later.

After about six months back in England, Edmund was betrayed again. This time, it was by his own brother, at whose house in Wath-upon-Dearne he was staying. He was arrested and sent to York Castle as a close prisoner.

At a court hearing in March 1587, he was found guilty of treason simply because he was a Catholic priest. On March 23, 1587, he was taken from the castle yard to a place called York Tyburn. There, he was executed for his beliefs.

Today, a church in Leeds, Bl. Edmund Sykes Parish, is named after him.

See also

• Catholic Church in the United Kingdom
• Douai Martyrs