William Way facts for kids
Quick facts for kids William Way |
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Shrine to William Way
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| Born | c. 1560 Cornwall or Devon |
| Died | 23 September 1588 Kingston upon Thames |
| Major shrine | St. Agatha's Catholic Church, Kingston upon Thames |
| Feast | 23 September |
William Way was an English Catholic priest who lived a long time ago. He was put to death because of his beliefs during a time when England was changing its religion. Many people remember him as a martyr, someone who dies for their faith. The Roman Catholic Church honors him.
Early Life and Studies
William Way was born around 1560. He grew up in England, possibly in Cornwall or Devon.
During this time, England was going through a big religious change called the Protestant Reformation. This meant that Catholic schools in England were closed. So, William Way went to France to study to become a priest.
He began his studies in 1584 at the Cathedral of Reims. He became a subdeacon and then a deacon. Finally, in September 1586, he was ordained as a priest in Laon, France.
Life as a Priest
William Way returned to England in December 1586. Being a Catholic priest was very dangerous in England at that time. By June 1587, he was arrested and put in prison.
In September 1588, he was brought to trial in London. He was accused of being a Roman Catholic priest, which was against the law. William Way refused to be judged by a regular court. He also would not accept the Bishop of London as a true bishop. He also did not agree that Queen Elizabeth I was the head of the Church.
Because of this, he was immediately found guilty of being a traitor. This meant he was sentenced to death.
His Death
William Way was executed in Kingston upon Thames. He was very brave and even seemed happy when he was called to trial. He was put to death in a very harsh way because of his strong beliefs. This happened either on September 23 or October 1, 1588.
See Also
