Edward Thwing facts for kids

Edward Thwing (c. 1565 - 26 July 1600) was an English Catholic priest. He is remembered as a martyr, meaning he died for his religious beliefs.

His Life and Studies

Edward Thwing was born around 1565. His family was from Heworth, York. He was also related to John Thwing of Bridlington, a saint from the 1300s.

Edward decided to become a priest. He went to the English College in Reims, France, in 1583. This college was a place where English Catholics could study to become priests. He also spent some time studying with the Jesuits.

Later, he went to Rome to continue his studies. However, he became unwell and returned to Reims. There, he taught Greek, Hebrew, and other subjects. He became a priest in 1590.

Mission to England and Arrest

In 1597, Edward Thwing was sent back to England. At that time, it was very dangerous to be a Catholic priest in England. The government had passed a law called the Jesuits, etc. Act 1584. This law said that Catholic priests had to leave England within 40 days. If they stayed, they could be punished for serious crimes against the Queen. People who helped them or knew about them and didn't tell the authorities could also be punished.

Edward Thwing was arrested almost immediately after arriving in England. He was sent to Wisbech Castle, which was a prison for Catholic priests. Another priest, Robert Nutter, a Dominican friar, was also held there.

Escape and Final Days

Edward Thwing and Robert Nutter managed to escape from Wisbech Castle. They stayed hidden in Lancashire for about three years.

However, in May 1600, they were arrested again. They were taken to Lancaster Castle. At their trial, they were found guilty simply for being priests.

On July 26, 1600, Edward Thwing and Robert Nutter were put to death in Lancaster. They were executed in a very harsh way because of their faith.

Edward Thwing's grand-nephew, Thomas Thwing, also suffered a similar fate many years later in 1680. He was accused of being part of a made-up story against Catholics called the Popish Plot. Thomas Thwing was also recognized as a blessed person by the Pope in 1929.

Edward Thwing was officially recognized as "Blessed" by Pope John Paul II in 1987. He is one of the Eighty-five martyrs of England and Wales, a group of people who died for their Catholic faith in England and Wales.

See also

• Catholic Church in the United Kingdom
• Douai Martyrs