Edward Osbaldeston facts for kids

Edward Osbaldeston was an English martyr who lived in the 1500s. He was born around 1560. He was put to death in York on November 16, 1594, because of his Catholic faith.

Early Life and Education

Edward Osbaldeston was born around 1560. His family lived at Osbaldeston Hall, near Blackburn in Lancashire, England. His father was Thomas Osbaldeston.

When Edward was older, he traveled to the English College. This college was in Douai, which is now in France. At that time, it was located in Reims. This college was a special school for English Catholics. They went there to study and become priests.

Edward became a deacon in December 1583. He was then ordained as a priest on September 21, 1585. He celebrated his first Mass on the feast day of St. Jerome. Because of this, he felt a special connection to St. Jerome.

Serving His Faith

On April 27, 1589, Edward Osbaldeston was sent back to England. This was part of the "English mission." At that time, it was dangerous to be a Catholic priest in England. Priests like Edward secretly helped Catholics practice their faith.

On September 30, 1594, which was St. Jerome's day, Edward was caught. He was arrested at an inn in Tollerton, Yorkshire. An Anglican priest named Thomas Clark helped with his arrest.

Trial and Legacy

The day after his arrest, Edward was taken to York. He was put on trial at the next court session, called the assizes. He was found guilty of high treason. This was because being a Catholic priest in England was considered a crime against the country's laws at that time.

Bishop Richard Challoner later shared parts of a letter that Edward wrote. Edward sent this letter to other prisoners in York Castle. The letter showed how humble he was. It also showed his strong trust in God, even though he knew he would soon die.

Edward Osbaldeston is remembered as one of the eighty-five martyrs of England and Wales. These are people who died for their Catholic faith in England and Wales. Pope John Paul II officially recognized him as "Blessed" on November 22, 1987.

See also

• Catholic Church in the United Kingdom
• Douai Martyrs