Blessed Mark Barkworth

Biography

Blessed Mark Barkworth, also known as George Barkworth and Mark Lambert, was born around 1572 in Lincolnshire, England. Described as a tall, burly man with an always cheerful disposition, Mark embarked on a journey that would ultimately lead him to martyrdom.

Having received his education at Oxford University, Mark Barkworth's life took a transformative turn when he converted to Catholicism. In 1594, he joined the Church at Douai, France. Seeking further spiritual formation, he traveled to Rome, Italy, and enrolled at the English College in December 1596. Later, he continued his studies at the Royal College of Saint Alban in Valladolid, Spain.

It was during his journey to Spain that Mark experienced a profound vision. Saint Benedict of Nursia appeared to him, foretelling his destiny as a Benedictine and martyr. Ordained as a priest in 1599, Barkworth embraced a life of devotion to God and became a Benedictine Oblate.

Returning to England with Saint Thomas Garnet, Mark Barkworth dedicated himself to ministering to covert Catholics, who faced persecution due to their faith. However, their clandestine activities did not go unnoticed, and Barkworth was arrested. He spent several months in prison before being condemned for the crime of being a priest.

On February 27, 1601, Mark Barkworth was hanged, drawn, and quartered at Tyburn, London, joining the company of other Catholic Martyrs. His execution occurred alongside Blessed Roger Filcock and Saint Anne Line, who were also victims of persecution during this tumultuous period in English history.

Blessed Mark Barkworth is honored on various feast days, including February 27 and October 29, as one of the Martyrs of Douai, and December 1, as one of the Martyrs of Oxford University. His courage, fidelity to his vocation, and martyrdom have been recognized by the Catholic Church. Pope Pius XI venerated him on December 8, 1929, issuing a decree of martyrdom, and later beatifying him on December 15 of the same year.

As a tall and burly man with an abiding cheerfulness and unyielding dedication to his faith, Blessed Mark Barkworth remains an inspiration and a testament to the steadfastness of Catholicism in the face of persecution.