Blessed John Mason

Biography

Blessed John Mason, also known as Blessed John Maskell, was a devout layman from Kendal, Westmoreland, England, born in an era when Catholics faced severe persecution under the English government. Little is known about his early life, but by his adulthood, he found himself in the service of a Mr. Owen in Oxfordshire.

During this time, Blessed John Mason's deep faith and commitment to the Catholic Church led him to engage in acts of resistance against the suppression of Catholicism. He became involved in providing refuge to priests who were on the run or in hiding, openly defying the laws that sought to persecute and eradicate the Catholic clergy.

One particular priest whom Blessed John Mason harbored was Saint Edmund Gennings, a respected Catholic martyr who would later be canonized by the Church. In an act of incredible bravery, Blessed John physically restrained the men who had come to arrest Gennings during Mass, ensuring that the holy sacrament could be completed.

Unfortunately, his defiance did not go unnoticed, and Blessed John Mason was subsequently arrested for his involvement in harboring priests and obstructing the authorities. He was charged with treason and faced a death sentence.

Blessed John Mason's unwavering faith and courage during his trial and imprisonment served as a powerful witness to the strength of his convictions. Despite knowing the dire consequences that awaited him, he remained steadfast in his faith and refused to renounce Catholicism.

On December 10, 1591, Blessed John Mason was taken to Tyburn in London, where he met his martyrdom. He was hanged, drawn, and quartered as punishment for his devotion to the Catholic faith. His execution was a harrowing and brutal ordeal, yet he endured it with unfaltering faith, believing that he was offering his life as a sacrifice for his religious beliefs.

Blessed John Mason's martyrdom and his unwavering commitment to his faith have been recognized and celebrated by the Catholic Church. On December 1, his feast day is observed as one of the Martyrs of Oxford University, acknowledging his connection to the esteemed academic institution. Additionally, on December 10, his feast day commemorates his individual martyrdom.

In recognition of his heroic witness, Pope Pius XI officially venerated Blessed John Mason on December 8, 1929, issuing a decree of martyrdom. Just one week later, on December 15, 1929, Pope Pius XI beatified him, bestowing the title of "Blessed" upon him.

Today, Blessed John Mason is remembered as a fervent and dedicated layman who fearlessly defended his faith and the lives of priests in a hostile and dangerous era. His sacrifice exemplifies the courage needed to stand up for one's religious beliefs, and he remains an inspiration for Catholics around the world.