Saint Anne Line

Biography

Saint Anne Line, also known as Anne Higham and Anne Lyne, was born around 1565 in Dunmow, Essex, England. She was raised in a wealthy Calvinist family, but her life took a dramatic turn when she and her brother decided to convert to Catholicism. As a result of their conversion, they were disowned and disinherited by their family. Anne found love and companionship in Roger Line, who was also a convert to Catholicism. However, their lives were filled with hardship and persecution due to their religious beliefs. Roger was arrested for attending Mass and was eventually exiled to Flanders, Belgium, where he passed away in 1594. In the midst of these challenging circumstances, Father John Gerard established a house of refuge for priests in London, England. Recognizing Anne's strong character and dedication to the faith, Father Gerard appointed her as the person in charge of this house. This responsibility required her to protect and provide shelter for priests who were being hunted by the authorities. Tragedy struck when Father Gerard himself was imprisoned in the Tower of London. However, he managed to escape in 1597. The authorities suspected Anne of aiding Father Gerard in his escape, which led her to move to another house. This new location later became a significant gathering point for Catholics, where they could openly celebrate their faith. On Candlemas, February 2nd, in the year 1601, Father Francis Page was preparing to celebrate Mass in Anne's house when priest-catchers burst in. In a quick act of selflessness, Father Page unvested and blended in with the congregation, while Anne remained steadfast by the altar. Unfortunately, the presence of the altar was enough evidence to incriminate Anne, resulting in her arrest. She was swiftly brought to trial, where she was convicted for harboring priests. This brave and devout woman was subsequently hanged on February 27th, 1601, at Tyburn in London, England. Anne Line joined the company of the Forty Martyrs of England and Wales, alongside Blessed Mark Barkworth and her dear friend Blessed Roger Filcock. For her unwavering dedication to her faith and her role in providing sanctuary to persecuted Catholic priests, Saint Anne Line was venerated on December 8th, 1929, with the decree of martyrdom issued by Pope Pius XI. She was later beatified on December 15th, 1929, by the same Pope. The ultimate recognition of her sanctity came on October 25th, 1970, when Pope Paul VI canonized her as a saint. Saint Anne Line is now revered as a patron saint for childless people, converts, and widows. Her life serves as a testament to courage, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of religious freedom in the face of adversity. Those who seek her intercession find comfort in her example and turn to her as a source of inspiration in their own journey of faith.