Saint David Lewis

Biography

Saint David Lewis, also known as Charles Baker, was born in 1616 in Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, Wales. He came from a mixed religious background, as his mother, Margaret Prichard, was a Catholic while his father, Morgan Lewis, was a Protestant school headmaster. David was raised in the Protestant faith along with his eight siblings. At the age of 16, David was reconciled to Catholicism during his time in Paris, France. Recognizing his calling to serve God, he pursued his studies at the English College in Rome, Italy, starting in 1638. David's commitment to his faith was unwavering, and he was ordained as a priest in 1642. In 1645, David Lewis made the decision to join the Society of Jesus, commonly known as the Jesuits. He dedicated himself to the spiritual direction of students at the English College in Rome, fostering their growth and guiding them on their spiritual journeys. David proved to be an exceptional spiritual director, known for his wisdom and gentle guidance. After spending several years in Rome, David felt a deep calling to return to his homeland of Wales to minister to the persecuted Catholic community there. He settled in the village of Cym and resided in a farmhouse, which served as a base for his missionary work. For over 30 years, David tirelessly ministered to Catholics in secret, providing them with spiritual guidance, sacraments, and support during a time of intense religious persecution. The persecution intensified with the rise of the Titus Oates Plot, a fabricated conspiracy that aimed to target Catholics in England and Wales. Sadly, David Lewis's dedication to his faith and service made him a target. In November 1678, he was betrayed by a servant and arrested at Llantarnam, Wales. David was subsequently condemned in March 1679 on the charges of being a Catholic priest and saying Mass, acts that were considered treasonous under anti-Catholic laws. He was imprisoned and interrogated in London before being returned to Usk, Wales. Despite the hardships and threats he faced, David remained steadfast in his faith. Tragically, on 22 August 1679, at the age of 63, Saint David Lewis was hanged, drawn, and quartered in Usk, Monmouthshire, Wales. His remains were buried in Usk, and his tomb quickly became a pilgrimage site, drawing people from all over seeking his intercession. In recognition of his virtuous life and martyrdom, Pope Pius XI declared Saint David Lewis a martyr on 8 December 1929. He was beatified on 15 December 1929 by the same pope and later canonized by Pope Paul VI on 25 October 1970. Saint David Lewis is celebrated on 27 August and is also honored as one of the Forty Martyrs of England and Wales on 25 October. Though he does not have a specific patronage assigned to him, he is revered by many as a courageous and unwavering example of faith and dedication to the Catholic Church.