St. Margaret Clitherow
St. Margaret Clitherow
When They Lived
St. Margaret Clitherow lived from 1556 to 1586.
Where They Lived
St. Margaret Clitherow lived in York, England.
Notable World Events During Their Life
- Spanish Armada (1588): The iconic naval battle between the Spanish Armada and the English fleet.
- Scientific Revolution: Advancements in science by figures like Copernicus, Galileo, and Kepler.
- Exploration and Colonization: Establishment of the Roanoke Colony and global exploration.
- Shakespearean Era: Flourishing arts and literature, including the works of Shakespeare.
- Thirty Years’ War (1618-1648): A major European conflict reshaping the continent.
Patronage
St. Margaret Clitherow is the patron saint of martyrs, difficult marriages, and businesswomen. Her life story is
a testament to her unwavering faith and strength, making her an inspiration for those facing challenges in their
lives. Margaret’s commitment to her Catholic faith during a time of religious upheaval highlights her dedication
to her beliefs, even in the face of persecution and adversity. Her story serves as a reminder of the power of
conviction and the importance of standing up for one’s principles.
Early Life
Margaret Clitherow was born in York, Yorkshire, England, in 1556. She had five siblings. Her father was Thomas Middleton. He was a reputable businessman and also managed a wax factory. In 1564, he became Sheriff of York. Margaret lost her father when she was 14 and was raised by her mother, Jane Middleton. She grew up to be a charming and unique young woman. She got married to John Clitherow, the city’s chamberlain and a wealthy meat seller. Her marriage with Thomas produced three exceptional children, and they were all raised in The Shambles.
Conversion to Catholicism
Margret Citherow became a Roman Catholic in 1574. Although her husband was part of the established church, he didn’t oppose her decision as his brother was a Catholic priest. There was a law at that time that mandated that a fine be paid for missing service. John Clitherow ensured he always paid for his wife. After some time, she was imprisoned for not attending service and released shortly after. She was jailed twice after her first incarceration.
Her zeal for the Catholic faith was intense, and she was a fearless lady willing to risk her life to protect and provide shelter to Catholic priests, who were at that time illegal. She carried this out passionately, despite the capital punishment she could face for engaging in such activities. As this was against a law made in 1584.
She provided two chambers for these priests, where they lived and celebrated the mass secretly. Most fugitive priests North of England found safety and solace in her homes.
Her Oldest son, Henry, had traveled abroad to be trained as a Catholic priest. This sparked a lot of questioning and interrogation. Her husband was able to provide a genuine response to these interrogations. However, in 1586, during a search, a little boy got so scared that he pointed at the location where the priests hid, which led to their arrests.
Trial and Death
Margaret Clitherow was arrested for harboring Catholic priests. To save her family from testifying, she refused a trial. She vehemently affirmed that she didn’t commit any crime, so there was no point trying her. She was sentenced to death. She was killed in a very gruesome manner. Heavy rocks placed on a door board were pressed down on her back so that the heavy and sharp rocks pressed her down and broke her back. Her execution was carried out in 1586 on Lady Day.
Legacy
Margaret is revered as the patroness of the Catholic Women’s League. There are so many churches and institutions across America and Europe bearing her name. Churches and schools alike in England and America take her name. She is also the co-patroness of the Latin Mass Society. This organization set up the annual pilgrimage to York to honour her.
Veneration
Pope Pius XI beatified Margaret in 1929. On October 25th, 1970, together with forty other martyrs from both England and Wales, she was canonized by Pope Paul VI. Her Shrine is located at 35, 36, The Shambles.
5 Interesting Facts About St. Margaret Clitherow
- Her Feast day is March 26th.
- In Prison, she learned how to speak Latin to participate actively in
Latin mass. - She gave birth to her third child, Williams, while in Prison.
- She was executed while pregnant with her fourth child.
- She is nicknamed the Pearl of York.
Prayer to St. Margaret Clitherow
Dear Lord Jesus, give us the courage and grace not only to live holy lives but to be willing to die holy deaths, as St. Margaret of Clitherow did. We thank you, dear Lord, for the examples of your holy saints. May we follow in their footsteps. In Your holy name, we pray. Amen.
Source: https://catholicexchange.com/saint-margaret-of-clitherow
