John Roche (martyr) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids BlessedJohn Roche |
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Statue of John Roche in the church of St Etheldreda, Ely Place, London
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| Martyr | |
| Born | Ireland |
| Died | 30 August 1588 Tyburn, London |
| Venerated in | Roman Catholic Church |
| Beatified | 15 December 1929 by Pope Pius XI |
| Feast | 30 August |
| Patronage | sailors, mariners, boatmen |
John Roche (also known as John Neele or Neale) was a brave Catholic man from Ireland. He is remembered as a martyr, which means he died for his beliefs. He passed away in London, England on August 30, 1588.
Contents
John Roche's Story
John Roche lived during a time in England when being a Catholic was very difficult. The Queen, Queen Elizabeth I, wanted everyone to follow the Protestant church.
Helping a Friend Escape
John helped a woman named Margaret Ward. She was trying to help a Catholic priest, Richard Watson, escape from Bridewell Prison. Margaret first asked a boatman for help, but he said no.
John Roche was a boatman himself. He bravely agreed to help Margaret. He even traded clothes with the prisoner, Richard Watson. This allowed Watson to escape from the prison.
A Difficult Choice
Because he helped the priest, John Roche was arrested. The authorities offered him a deal: he could be free if he asked Queen Elizabeth I for forgiveness. He also had to promise to go to a Protestant church.
John Roche refused to give up his Catholic faith. He chose to stay true to his beliefs.
His Final Day
Because of his refusal, John Roche was hanged in Tyburn, London. This happened on August 30, 1588. He died on the same day as Margaret Ward and several other people who also stood firm in their faith.
Remembering John Roche
John Roche is honored by the Roman Catholic Church.
Becoming a Blessed Saint
In 1929, Pope Pius XI declared John Roche to be "Blessed." This is an important step towards becoming a saint in the Catholic Church.
His Legacy Today
A school in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets was named after him. This helps keep his memory alive.
What He Looks Like in Art
In pictures and statues, John Roche is often shown wearing clothes from the 1500s. He usually holds an oar or a small boat. This is because he was a boatman. He is known as the patron saint of sailors, mariners, and boatmen.
More Information
- Patron Saints Index: Blessed John Roche
