Blessed Edward Jones

Biography

Blessed Edward Jones, also known as Blessed Edward Jones of Saint Asaph, was born in the Diocese of Saint Asaph, Wales. He was raised in the Anglican faith, but his spiritual journey eventually led him to embrace Catholicism. In 1587, Edward converted to Catholicism and was received into the Church at the English College in Rheims, France.

Following his ordination as a Catholic priest in 1588, Blessed Edward Jones returned to his homeland of England with a burning desire to minister to covert Catholics and uphold the Catholic faith in a time of religious persecution. However, his efforts to provide spiritual guidance and celebrate the Sacraments to Catholics in secret were met with great danger.

In 1590, Edward was arrested in a grocer's shop on Fleet Street in London by a priest-catcher who deceitfully posed as a Catholic in need of a priest's services. Subsequently, he was imprisoned in the infamous Tower of London, where he endured severe torture. Despite the immense suffering, Blessed Edward Jones never wavered in his commitment to his priestly duties.

During his trial, Edward argued that his confession of being a priest was obtained under duress and torture, rendering it legally insufficient to condemn him. His courtroom demeanor and well-constructed arguments earned him praise from the court. However, in a tragic turn of events, the court ultimately disregarded his defense, condemning him to death.

On May 6, 1590, Edward Jones was martyred, being hanged, drawn, and quartered on Fleet Street in London. His unwavering faith and steadfast commitment to his vocation as a Catholic priest paved the way for his recognition as a martyr.

Blessed Edward Jones is honored as one of the Martyrs of Douai, a group of English Catholic martyrs who studied at the English College in Rheims and suffered persecution during the Elizabethan era. His feast day is celebrated on May 6, and he is also commemorated on October 29 as part of this collective group of martyrs.

It is important to note that Pope Pius XI, on December 8, 1929, formally recognized the martyrdom of Blessed Edward Jones. In a decree, the Holy Father acknowledged his sacrificial death for the Catholic faith, signifying Edward's heroic virtue and sanctity. On the same date, Pope Pius XI also declared him blessed, affirming his beatification within the Catholic Church.

The life of Blessed Edward Jones is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the Catholic faith and his selfless dedication to serving the spiritual needs of covert Catholics in a time of great persecution. His example continues to inspire and guide believers in their own faith journey.