Saint John Kemble

Biography

Saint John Kemble, also known as Father John Kemble, was born in 1599 at Rhydica Farm, Saint Weonard’s Parish, Herefordshire, England. He was the son of John and Anne Kemble. After completing his studies at Douai, France, he was ordained as a Catholic priest on 23 February 1625 at Douai College. Upon his ordination, Father John returned to England on 4 June 1625 and began his mission work in Monmouthshire and Herefordshire. Despite the hostile environment for Catholics during that time, he faithfully tended to his covert flock for an impressive 53 years. Tragically, Father John's tireless dedication to his faith led to his arrest and martyrdom. He was betrayed to the authorities by an apostate named John Scudamore and was subsequently arrested at Pembridge Castle, the home of a family member, in 1678. Falsely accused of being part of the Titus Oates Plot, Father John was condemned for the treason of Catholic priesthood in March 1679. At the age of 80, Father John Kemble was hanged, drawn, and quartered on 22 August 1679 at Widemarsh Common in Hereford, England. However, due to the tremendous respect he commanded in the area, he was allowed to die on the gallows and spared the agony of the drawing and quartering elements. He was laid to rest in the Welsh Newton Churchyard. Interestingly, before his execution, Father John had a final drink and smoked a final pipe with the under-sheriff. This act led to the creation of the Herefordshire expressions "Kemble cup" and "Kemble pipe," which refer to a drink or pipe taken before parting. Saint John Kemble is honored and venerated for his steadfast faith and sacrifice. He is considered one of the Forty Martyrs of England and Wales, commemorated on 25 October. Additionally, he is recognized as one of the Martyrs of Douai, with a feast day on 29 October. His martyrdom and holy life were officially recognized by the Catholic Church on 8 December 1929, when Pope Pius XI decreed his martyrdom and declared him venerable. Later, on 15 December 1929, Pope Pius XI beatified Saint John Kemble. Finally, he was canonized as a saint on 25 October 1970 by Pope Paul VI. Today, Saint John Kemble is remembered as a patron of unknown causes. The hand of Saint John Kemble is preserved as a relic at Saint Francis Xavier's Church in Hereford, England, serving as a tangible reminder of his martyrdom and the enduring legacy of his faith.