German Gardiner facts for kids
Quick facts for kids BlessedGerman Gardinaer |
|
|---|---|
| Martyr | |
| Died | 7 March 1544 Tyburn, London, England |
| Honored in | Roman Catholic Church |
| Beatified | 15 December 1929 by Pope Pius XI |
| Feast | 7 March |
German Gardiner (also known as Germain or Jermyn) was a Roman Catholic man who lived in England a long time ago. He was the nephew of a powerful person named Stephen Gardiner. German Gardiner became involved in a political event called the Prebendaries' Plot. This plot was against Thomas Cranmer, who was an important religious leader at the time. German Gardiner was put to death in Tyburn, London, on March 7, 1544.
Contents
Who Was German Gardiner?
German Gardiner was a regular person, not a priest, but he was very religious. He lived during the time of King Henry VIII in England. This was a period of big changes in the country's religion.
The King's Concerns
King Henry VIII was becoming stricter with people who followed Protestant ideas. Because of this, Thomas Cranmer, a high-ranking church leader, came under suspicion. It was believed that Gardiner helped make a list of Cranmer's supposed mistakes in his religious beliefs.
Political Challenges
Gardiner's punishment was part of a bigger political plan. This plan helped Cranmer keep the king's full support. While some of Cranmer's powerful enemies were allowed to stay in their positions, Gardiner faced accusations. He was accused of working with Cardinal Pole, another important figure.
What Happened to German Gardiner?
German Gardiner wrote a paper against John Frith on August 1, 1534. Frith was another person who had different religious views.
Facing Accusations
Gardiner was accused of trying to take away the king's power. Specifically, he was accused of trying to remove the king's title as the Supreme Head of the English and Irish Church. This was a very serious charge at the time.
His Companions
Thomas Haywood was also accused with Gardiner. However, Haywood was later forgiven because he changed his mind about his beliefs. Gardiner's other companions were John Larke and John Ireland. John Ireland was a priest who had worked for Thomas More. All of them were executed in Tyburn.
Acknowledged by the Church
Years later, the Catholic Church honored German Gardiner. He was declared "Blessed" in 1886. John Ireland was also declared "Blessed" in 1929. Being "Blessed" means the Church recognizes them for their strong faith.
