Blessed Thomas Maxfield

Biography

Blessed Thomas Maxfield, also known as Thomas Macclesfield, was born in The Mere, Enville, Staffordshire, England, to Ursula and William Macclesfield. His father, a devoted Catholic, faced charges of hiding and supporting priests, including Thomas's own brother, Father Humphrey.

Thomas pursued his education at the English College in Douai, France, where he grew in his faith and prepared for the priesthood. He was subsequently ordained in 1614 and felt called to return to England to minister to covert Catholics during a time of religious persecution.

Upon his arrival back in England in 1615, Blessed Thomas Maxfield diligently ministered to the hidden Catholic community, providing spiritual guidance and sacraments. However, his zealous mission could not escape the watchful eyes of the authorities. He was quickly arrested on the charge of being a priest and imprisoned for eight months.

Undeterred by his confinement, Thomas continued his ministry behind bars, bringing hope and conversion to other prisoners. In a bold attempt to escape, he was caught and subsequently transferred to Newgate prison in London. Even there, amidst the hardships of imprisonment, Blessed Thomas Maxfield continued his pastoral care for fellow inmates, leading many to embrace or deepen their Catholic faith.

On June 26, 1616, Blessed Thomas Maxfield faced trial, accused solely because of his priesthood. Found guilty, he was sentenced to a brutal death. This courageous martyr became another witness to the faith during a time of great persecution.

On July 1, 1616, Blessed Thomas Maxfield was hanged, drawn, and quartered at Tyburn in London. During his final journey, a group of Catholic Spaniards acted as an honor guard, accompanying him, but they were subjected to abuse from the hostile crowd.

Today, Blessed Thomas Maxfield is venerated as a martyr, and his feast day is celebrated on July 1st. Additionally, he is also commemorated on October 29th as one of the Martyrs of Douai. Many relics of his martyrdom have been enshrined at Downside Abbey near Bath, England.

Recognizing his steadfast witness to the faith, Pope Pius XI, on December 8, 1929, issued a decree of martyrdom, officially proclaiming Blessed Thomas Maxfield's veneration. Later that month, on December 15, 1929, Pope Pius XI beatified him.

The life of Blessed Thomas Maxfield serves as a testament to his unyielding dedication to the Catholic faith, selfless service to others, and unwavering trust in God, even in the face of persecution and death.