Blessed Robert Drury

Biography

Blessed Robert Drury, also known as Robert Drewrie, was born around 1567 in Buckinghamshire, England. He pursued his studies at the English College in Rheims, France, in 1588, and later at the English College in Valladolid, Spain, in 1590. It was during his time in Valladolid that he was ordained as a priest in 1593.

Upon his return to England in the same year, Father Robert dedicated himself to ministering to covert Catholics in the London area. He played an important role in providing spiritual guidance and sacraments to those who practiced their Catholic faith in secret, due to the religious persecution that Catholics faced under the reign of Queen Elizabeth I.

In 1603, Blessed Robert Drury was one of the signers of the loyal address on 31 January. This address acknowledged Queen Elizabeth I as the lawful sovereign on earth, while maintaining loyalty in religious matters to the Pope. However, when James I ascended to the throne, he required Catholics to sign a new oath that acknowledged his authority over spiritual matters. Father Robert refused to sign this oath, remaining steadfast in his loyalty to the Pope.

As a result of his refusal, Father Robert was arrested in 1606, being charged with the crime of being a priest. Despite being offered freedom if he would sign the oath, Blessed Robert Drury stood firm in his faith and declined the offer. He was subsequently martyred for his refusal to denounce his beliefs.

On 26 February 1607, at Tyburn in London, Blessed Robert Drury was hanged, drawn, and quartered. His courageous stance in the face of persecution exemplified his unwavering faith and commitment to the Catholic Church.

Blessed Robert Drury is venerated as one of the Martyrs of England, Scotland, and Wales, with his feast day celebrated on 26 February. He is also recognized as one of the Martyrs of Douai, with an additional feast day on 22 November. In recognition of his martyrdom, Pope John Paul II issued a decree of martyrdom on 10 November 1986, and on 22 November 1987, he was beatified by the same Pope, further honoring his sacrifice for the Catholic faith.