Thomas Whittaker (martyr) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids BlessedThomas Whittaker |
|
|---|---|
Portrait in the Royal English College in Valladolid
|
|
| Priest and Martyr | |
| Born | c. 1614 Burnley, Lancashire, England |
| Died | 7 August 1646 (aged 31 - 32) Lancaster, England |
| Venerated in | Roman Catholic Church |
| Beatified | 22 November 1987 by Pope John Paul II |
| Feast | 7 August, 22 November, 29 October |
| Attributes | martyr's palm |
Thomas Whittaker was an English priest who lived a long time ago, from 1614 to 1646. He was born in Burnley, Lancashire, and sadly, he died in Lancaster. He is known as a Catholic martyr, which means he died for his religious beliefs. In 1987, he was honored and called "Blessed" by Pope John Paul II.
His Early Life
Thomas Whittaker was born around 1614. His father, also named Thomas, was a school teacher, and his mother was Helen. Thomas first learned at his father's school.
Later, a kind family called the Towneley family helped him. They sent him to a place called Valladolid to study. There, he trained to become a priest.
Becoming a Priest
Thomas became a priest in 1638. After his training, he went back to England. For five years, he worked as a priest in Lancashire.
During this time, he was once arrested. But he managed to get away while he was being taken to Lancaster Castle.
Time in Prison
Thomas was arrested again in a place called Blacke Hall in Goosnargh. He was taken to Lancaster Castle on August 7, 1643. For six weeks, he was kept all alone in a room. He stayed in prison for three years.
Before his trial, he spent a month praying and preparing himself. He knew he might die for his faith.
His Final Days
People tried to make Thomas change his mind and join the Church of England. They told him if he did, they would let him live. But Thomas refused. He would not give up his beliefs.
He was executed on August 7, 1646, along with two other men, Edward Bamber and John Woodcock. Thomas told the sheriff, "Do what you want with me. I completely refuse to be pardoned or set free if it means I have to change my beliefs."
