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Feast Day: January 4
Death: January 1, 4
Blessed Thomas Plumtree, also known as Pastor Rebel, was born in Lincolnshire, England. Not much is known about his early life, but it is documented that he began his studies at Corpus Christi College, Oxford, in 1543. After completing his education, he was ordained as a priest and appointed as the Rector of Stubton, Lincolnshire, in 1546.
In the midst of his pastoral duties, Plumtree became drawn to the Catholic Rising of the North, which was a revolt against the repressions imposed by Queen Elizabeth I on the Catholic Church in England. In a defiant act of solidarity, he resigned his prebend and decided to actively support the northern insurgents as their chaplain.
Unfortunately, the uprising ultimately failed, and Plumtree was captured by the authorities. He was apprehended while celebrating Mass at the altar and was charged with the crime of practicing his Catholic faith, in direct opposition to the queen's authority over the Church in England. Despite being offered his freedom in exchange for renouncing Catholicism, Plumtree staunchly refused, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to his faith.
As a result, Plumtree was sentenced to death and met a brutal end on January 4, 1570, in the market place at Durham Castle in Durham, England. He was hanged, drawn, and quartered, a common method of execution for those convicted of treason. His body was left on public display as a warning to other Catholics, and it was only after ten days, on January 14, 1570, that he was finally given a proper burial.
Plumtree's unwavering faith and his refusal to renounce Catholicism, even at the cost of his own life, have made him a revered figure within the Catholic Church. His martyrdom is commemorated on January 4th, and he is also honored on December 1st as one of the Martyrs of Oxford University.
Recognizing his courageous witness and sacrifices, Pope Leo XIII beatified Blessed Thomas Plumtree on December 9, 1886, confirming his cultus within the Catholic Church. Today, he serves as an inspirational figure, reminding believers of the importance of standing firm in their faith, no matter the consequences.