Thomas Belchiam facts for kids

Thomas Belchiam (born around 1508, died 1537) was an English Franciscan friar. He died in Newgate Prison during the time of King Henry VIII. He is remembered as a Catholic martyr, someone who died for their beliefs. Pope Leo XIII later declared him "Venerable", which is a step towards being recognized as a saint. While some records suggest different years, many historians agree he died on August 3, 1537.

Who Was Thomas Belchiam?

Thomas Belchiam was a friar at the Franciscan monastery in Greenwich, England. Friars are members of religious orders who often live in communities and dedicate their lives to God. Belchiam was known as a very good preacher. He was able to speak well and inspire people with his sermons.

Standing Up for His Beliefs

During King Henry VIII's rule, there were big changes in England. The King wanted to be the head of the church in England, not the Pope. This was called the "royal supremacy". Many people, including Thomas Belchiam and other Franciscans, refused to agree to this. They believed the Pope should remain the head of the church.

Because they refused to take an oath supporting the King's new role, Belchiam and other friars were put in prison. They also said that the King was a "heretic", meaning someone who holds beliefs that go against accepted religious teachings.

A Powerful Sermon

Thomas Belchiam had written a powerful sermon. In it, he spoke out against the bad habits of the King's court. He also criticized some of the clergy (church leaders) for being greedy and changing their beliefs too easily. The sermon was based on a Bible verse: "Behold, they that wear soft clothing are in kings' houses."

Some of the friars were later set free, thanks to someone named Thomas Wriothesley. However, Thomas Belchiam remained in Newgate Prison.

His Death and Legacy

Thomas Belchiam died in Newgate Prison on August 3, 1537. He died from starvation, meaning he did not get enough food. He was likely the youngest of his fellow prisoners and outlived them by about a month.

It is said that when he died, there was a surprising shake of the earth, like an earthquake. This event reportedly scared the jail keepers. People believed it was a sign from God. The King himself was said to be troubled by these events and ordered Belchiam to be properly buried.

After his death, a copy of his sermon was found in the prison. It was brought to King Henry VIII, who was affected by it. However, the King ordered it to be burned. Luckily, another copy was saved by other friars. A writer named Thomas Bourchier hoped it would be published one day, but it seems it never was. Thomas Belchiam is remembered for his courage in standing up for his faith.

Sources

• Charles Dodd, Church History (Brussels, 1739)
• Thomas Bourchier, Historia Ecclesiastica de Martyrio Fratrum Ord. D. Francisci (Paris, 1581)
• Luke Wadding, Annales Minorum (Ancona, 1736), tom. XVI
• Mary Jean Stone, Faithful unto Death (London, 1892)