Blessed John Nelson

Biography

Blessed John Nelson, also known as Father John Nelson, was born in 1534 in Skelton, Yorkshire, England. The details of his early life and family background are not provided in the given information. However, it is known that John Nelson pursued his education and entered the priesthood later in life.

At the age of 39, John began studying for the priesthood at Douai, a Catholic seminary in France. He was ordained on 11 June 1576 in Binche, Hainault, which is now part of modern-day Belgium. Notably, two of his four brothers also followed him into the priesthood, demonstrating a strong commitment to their shared faith.

Following his ordination, Father John Nelson returned to England on 7 November 1576 as a missioner assigned to the city of London. During his time in London, he joined the Society of Jesus, commonly known as the Jesuits, although the exact date of his entry into the order has been lost over time.

In November 1577, Father Nelson conducted an exorcism on one of his parishioners. During the ceremony, the possessed individual predicted John's impending doom, foreshadowing the challenges he would soon face. A week later, on 1 December 1577, Father Nelson was arrested while he was engaged in prayer. He was charged with the crime of Catholicism, which was seen as a threat to the religious establishment in England at that time.

Despite his imprisonment, Father Nelson managed to celebrate Mass on 30 January 1578 in Newgate prison. This act of faith demonstrated his unwavering commitment to his priestly duties even in the face of adversity. However, on 1 February 1578, he was condemned for the treason of practicing the Catholic priesthood and refusing to acknowledge the Queen's supremacy in spiritual matters.

As punishment, Father Nelson was thrown into the pit of the Tower of London for two days before being taken to Tyburn, London, where he was hanged, drawn, and quartered on 3 February 1578. In his final moments, he uttered the powerful words, "I forgive the queen and all the authors of my death," demonstrating his capacity for forgiveness and spiritual strength in the face of persecution.

Blessed John Nelson's life represents a courageous commitment to his faith and the Catholic priesthood. His dedication to the spread of Catholicism, even in the face of great opposition, earned him the honor of martyrdom. His feast day is celebrated on 3 February, and he is also commemorated on 29 October as one of the Martyrs of Douai.

Blessed John Nelson was officially beatified on 29 December 1886 by Pope Leo XIII, who confirmed the cultus or the public veneration of this saintly individual. Despite the absence of additional information regarding representations or specific acts attributed to him, his life and sacrifice continue to inspire and serve as a testament to the enduring strength of faith.