The lives of the Saints are meant to inspire and encourage us in our spiritual walk. We can look to them as examples of how to live out the faith, especially in times of great difficulty and trial. Because the list of Saints is so diverse, you are sure to stumble upon one whose life will speak to you. St. Thomas More is one saint we think speaks to many in our day in age, and if you haven’t seen the Academy Award-winning film adaptation of his story, A Man for All Seasons, we highly recommend it.
Though he lived in the 1500s, the life and struggle of St. Thomas is one that we can all relate to today. He fought for the sanctity of marriage and would not support the divorce of King Henry. In 1532, St. Thomas More refused to agree to King Henry VIII’s intention to take control of the Church in England. He was eventually martyred because he would not compromise on his moral beliefs. Because of his example, Pope John Paul II named him the Patron of Statesmen and Politicians.
Take the time to get to know St. Thomas More and ask for his intercession in the lives of our politicians.
“I do not care very much what men say of me, provided that God provides approves of me.”
– St. Thomas More
Sir Thomas More – Fr. Mitch Pacwa
5 Things to Know About St. Thomas More
- He was known to be a “merry character” and loved to tell jokes. He also possessed “brilliant intellect.”
- He considered becoming a priest, but decided it wasn’t for him. St. Thomas More married and had four children.
- He was a famous, well-respected lawyer who also wrote poetry and had a successful political career.
- Because he would not support King Henry’s divorce from Catherine of Aragon in order to marry Anne Boleyn, he was indicted for high treason, found guilty and beheaded on Tower Hill.
- His head was displayed on the London Bridge for one month and due to controversy, it is unclear where his head is now.
Find the works of St. Thomas More HERE.
