Blessed William Howard

Biography

Blessed William Howard, born on 30 November 1614 in Strand, London, England, was an influential figure in the Catholic Church who faced immense persecution during a time when Catholicism was suppressed in England. He was the son of Thomas, Earl of Arundel, and the grandson of Saint Philip Howard, a revered figure in the Church.

Growing up in England during a period of religious turmoil, William was raised as a devout Catholic. In 1637, he married Mary Stafford and went on to become the Viscount of Stafford in England and later the Baron Stafford in 1640. However, due to political reasons, he was forced into exile in 1642 and took refuge in the Netherlands. During his time in exile, William undertook diplomatic missions in Flanders and Switzerland on behalf of Emperor Ferdinand.

The Howard family faced financial difficulties when the English Parliament seized their lands, leaving them impoverished. Despite these challenges, William remained steadfast in his faith and dedication to the Catholic Church. In 1653, he was arrested in Heidelberg and later in 1656 in Utrecht, though he was ultimately acquitted of all charges.

In 1660, with the restoration of the monarchy in England, William's family property was reinstated, and their fortunes began to improve. They returned to England, hoping to live in peace and practice their Catholic faith openly. However, this period of respite was short-lived.

Accused of complicity in the infamous "Popish Plot," a fabricated conspiracy against the Protestant government, William was arrested on 25 October 1678 and imprisoned in the Tower of London. He endured two years of imprisonment, unjustly condemned even before his trial began. Despite having no involvement in the alleged "Plot," William was deemed an influential and high-profile Catholic, making him a target for persecution.

On 29 December 1680, Blessed William Howard was beheaded on Tower Hill, London, England, as a martyr for his Catholic faith. His steadfastness and dedication to his beliefs until the very end made him a revered figure among Catholics.

Recognizing his heroic virtue and martyrdom, Pope Pius XI declared William Howard venerable on 8 December 1929, and on the same day, he beatified him. This act acknowledged and honored his sacrifice for the Catholic faith.

Blessed William Howard is remembered and celebrated on his feast day, 29 December, as a courageous example of fidelity to the Catholic Church in the face of persecution. His life and martyrdom continue to inspire and serve as a reminder of the importance of religious freedom and the perseverance of faith.