Saints John Fisher, Bishop, and Thomas More, Martyrs
A memorial honoring Saints John Fisher and Thomas More, who stood firm in their faith against persecution.
Martyrs of Faith and Conscience
On June 22, the Church honors Saints John Fisher and Thomas More, both martyrs who courageously upheld their beliefs during the tumultuous reign of King Henry VIII. Their unwavering commitment to the truth and integrity exemplifies the ultimate witness to Christ, even unto death.
John Fisher, a bishop, and Thomas More, a statesman, both refused to endorse Henry VIII's separation from the Catholic Church and had to pay the ultimate price for their fidelity. Through their lives, they teach us about the importance of standing firm in our faith and the value of moral conviction.
Witnesses of the Faith
John Fisher was a respected bishop of Rochester, known for his dedication to education and pastoral care. He was imprisoned for opposing the King's wishes and ultimately executed in 1535. Thomas More, a renowned lawyer, and writer, served as Henry's chancellor until he resigned in protest of the King's actions. Both men were canonized by Pope Pius XI in 1935.
Their feast day was chosen to remind the faithful of the trials faced by those who stand up for their beliefs, especially in the face of political and social pressures. Their legacy inspires generations to uphold the Church’s teachings and remain true to their conscience.
I die the King's good servant, but God's first.
— Thomas MoreBlessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Matthew 5:10Symbols & iconography
- SwordRepresents martyrdom and the sacrifice made for faith.
- BookSymbolizes the value of knowledge and moral conviction upheld by Fisher and More.
Customs & traditions
Read their lives
Spend time learning about the lives of John Fisher and Thomas More as a family.
Share a meal
Prepare a meal together in honor of the saints, discussing their importance.
Pray a litany
Pray a litany asking for courage to stand firm in faith as they did.
Create a family vow
Compose a family vow to uphold truth and integrity based on their examples.
Prayers & readings
About this date
This memorial is observed on June 22, the anniversary of their martyrdom, emphasizing their witness to faith in a challenging time.
Frequently asked
Why are John Fisher and Thomas More considered martyrs?
They were executed for refusing to acknowledge the king’s supremacy over the Church.
What can we learn from their lives?
Their steadfastness teaches us the importance of living out our faith and moral convictions.
How should we celebrate this memorial?
Families can celebrate through prayer, learning about the saints, and discussing the virtues they exemplified.
Pray it as a household
Bring the feast into your family’s day
Solua walks your family through the day’s prayer together — a few unhurried minutes, shaped by the season.
Pray Together