William Harrington (priest) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Blessed William Harrington |
|
|---|---|
| Born | c.1565 Yorkshire, England |
| Died | 18 February 1594 Tyburn, England |
| Venerated in | Roman Catholic Church |
| Feast | 18 February |
William Harrington (born around 1566 – died 18 February 1594) was an English Jesuit priest. A Jesuit is a member of a Catholic religious order. He is remembered as a martyr for his faith. He was later declared "Blessed" by the Catholic Church in 1929.
Early Life and Studies
William Harrington grew up in Yorkshire, England. His family's home, Mount St. John, once hosted Edmund Campion. Campion was another important Catholic priest. William was inspired by Campion's strong faith.
Because of this inspiration, William decided to become a priest. He traveled to Europe to study. First, he attended a seminary in Reims, France. A seminary is a school for training priests. Then, he studied with the Jesuits in Tournai from 1582 to 1584.
Becoming a Priest
William wanted to join the Jesuit order. However, he became very sick. This illness forced him to return home to England. He stayed there for six years to recover.
In 1591, William was well enough to go back to Reims. He finished his studies and became a priest. He returned to England in the summer of 1592. At that time, being a Catholic priest in England was against the law.
Arrest and Faith
In May 1593, William was caught by the English authorities. He was arrested and put in prison for several months. He was charged with being a Catholic priest. This was considered a serious crime back then.
William Harrington was sentenced to death. He was offered a chance to live. All he had to do was give up his Catholic faith. He also had to attend Protestant church services just once. William bravely refused this offer. He chose to stay true to his beliefs.
Legacy and Recognition
William Harrington was declared "Blessed" in 1929. This was done by Pope Pius XI. Being "Blessed" is an important step towards becoming a saint in the Catholic Church.
His feast day is celebrated on February 18th each year. He is also honored on other dates. These include November 22nd as one of the Martyrs of England, Scotland, and Wales. He is also remembered on October 29th as one of the Martyrs of Douai.
William's story also touched the life of John Donne. John Donne was a famous English poet. John's brother, Henry Donne, had helped William Harrington. Henry was arrested and later died in prison.
