Edmund Arrowsmith
Edmund Arrowsmith was a Jesuit priest who bravely faced martyrdom for his faith during a time of persecution in England. His courage inspires many.
- Feast day
- Aug 28
- Known as
- Martyr · Religious
- Era
- 17th-century England
Who they were
Edmund Arrowsmith was born around 1585 in Lancashire, England, into a well-off Catholic family. His early education took place at the local Jesuit school before he traveled to France to join the Society of Jesus. He entered the Jesuit novitiate in 1604 and was ordained as a priest in 1612. Arrowsmith returned to England in 1619, a time when Catholics faced severe persecution, particularly under King James I and later under Charles I.
Once back in England, Arrowsmith began his mission to serve the Catholic community, which was largely underground due to the stringent anti-Catholic laws. He traveled throughout the northern parts of England, offering Mass, administering the sacraments, and providing pastoral care. His commitment to the faith and his role as a Jesuit priest brought him both joy and hardship as he navigated through dense persecution.
In 1628, he was arrested while carrying out his ministry. His trial was marked by a straightforward confession to his priesthood and sacraments in the face of accusations of treason. During his imprisonment, Arrowsmith displayed tremendous courage and integrity, refusing to betray his faith despite the intense pressure to do so. He was sentenced to death and was executed on August 28, 1628, in Tyburn, London.
His martyrdom became a significant part of his legacy, symbolizing resilience and unwavering faith in the face of persecution. Arrowsmith was beatified in 1896 and canonized as a saint by Pope Paul VI in 1970. Today, he is remembered not only for his bravery and faith but as a symbol of hope and steadfastness for all facing adversity in their own lives. His life exemplifies the mission of the Society of Jesus and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have stood firm in their beliefs.
Remembered for
Saint Edmund Arrowsmith is remembered for his unwavering faith and sacrifice during a tumultuous period of religious persecution under English rule. As a Jesuit priest, he dedicated his life to the spiritual care of Catholics and opposed the injustices faced by those practicing their faith. His martyrdom exemplifies the ultimate commitment to Christ in the face of danger, making him a symbol of courage and conviction for the faithful.
Edmund's life continues to inspire through his steadfastness and his willingness to embrace suffering for the love of God. His example encourages Catholics today to stand firm in their beliefs, demonstrating how faith can thrive even in the harshest conditions. His intercession is sought for strength and bravery in facing challenges in our own lives.
Aug 28
How to recognize them
- Jesuit CrossRepresents his commitment to the Jesuit order and its mission.
- Crown of MartyrdomSymbolizes his ultimate sacrifice for his faith.
- RosaryReflects his dedication to prayer and devotion to Mary.
- SwordSignifies the persecution he faced as a martyr for the faith.
- ScrollRepresents his role in teaching and spreading Christian doctrine.
There is nothing I would rather die for than my faith in Christ.
St. Edmund ArrowsmithPray with this saint
Holy Edmund, inspire us by your courage and fidelity to the Lord. Help us to stand firm in our faith, especially in times of trial. May we always seek to uphold the truth with love and compassion, just as you did in your life. Amen.
For your household
Incorporating Saint Edmund Arrowsmith into your family life can be a beautiful way to teach children about faithfulness and courage. Consider dedicating August 28, his feast day, as a special family day of prayer where everyone reflects on the importance of standing up for one's beliefs. You might start with a family meal where everyone shares how they see faith in action in their lives, inspired by St. Edmund's example.
Each night, you can include a prayer to Saint Edmund in your bedtime routine. Encourage children to ask for his intercession when they feel afraid or face difficult situations at school or in friendships. By sharing stories of his bravery, you can empower them to think about what it means to live out their faith courageously.
Another tradition is to celebrate name days for those named after Edmund, perhaps with a special dessert or small gift. This recognition can foster understanding of the saint's significance and create a personal connection to their faith. Discussing themes of resilience and integrity from St. Edmund's life can lead to enriching conversations about the values they wish to embody as a family, shaping a legacy of strong faith for the future.
Pray as a household
Carry your family in prayer
Solua gives your family a simple, faithful rhythm of prayer — one unhurried moment at a time, for the people you carry by name.
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