Thomas Atkinson (priest) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Blessed Thomas Atkinson |
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|---|---|
| Born | about 1546 East Riding of Yorkshire, England |
| Died | 11 March 1616 (aged about 70) York, Yorkshire, England |
| Honored in | Roman Catholic Church |
| Beatified | 22 November 1987 by Pope John Paul II |
| Feast | 11 March (individual) 29 October (one of the Douai Martyrs) 22 November (together with Eighty-five martyrs of England and Wales) |
Thomas Atkinson was an English Roman Catholic priest who lived a long time ago, from about 1546 to 1616. He is known as a Catholic martyr, which means he died for his religious beliefs. In 1987, he was honored by the Catholic Church and given the title "Blessed."
Contents
The Life of Thomas Atkinson
Early Years and Becoming a Priest
Thomas Atkinson was born in a place called the East Riding of Yorkshire in England. When he was older, he traveled to Reims, a city in France, where he became a priest. This happened in 1588. After becoming a priest, he returned to England.
Helping Others and Facing Danger
In England, Thomas Atkinson became well known for helping people. He especially spent his time visiting poor Catholics. During this time, it was very dangerous to be a Catholic priest in England. Because of the risks, he often had to travel at night to stay safe.
He usually walked everywhere he went. However, after he broke his leg, he had to start riding a horse to get around.
His Capture and Final Days
When he was about 70 years old, Thomas Atkinson was betrayed. He was captured and taken to York along with his host, Mr. Vavasour, and some of his family members.
When he was searched, people found some prayer beads and a special religious paper on him. Because of these items and his work as a Catholic priest, he was sentenced to death in a very harsh way. He died on March 11, 1616.
See also
