Saint Philip Howard

Biography

Saint Philip Howard, also known as Philip Earl of Arundel, was born on 28 June 1557 in Norfolk, England. He came from a noble and renowned family, being the grandson of the poet Henry, Earl of Surrey. However, his family's history was marred by tragedy and religious persecution, as his grandfather was executed by King Henry VIII in 1547 for treason. Philip's father, Thomas, the 4th Duke of Norfolk, also suffered a similar fate, being beheaded by Queen Elizabeth in 1572. Growing up in a Protestant household, Philip's mother, Lady Mary FitzAlan, later returned to Catholicism and actively assisted in the hiding of Catholic priests during a time when practicing Catholicism was heavily restricted in England. These early influences would play a significant role in shaping Philip's spiritual journey. At the tender age of 14, Philip married Anne, the daughter of Lord d'Acre. However, their union was cut short when Philip's father was executed. This tragic incident further deepened Philip's commitment to his Catholic faith, which he began to explore more earnestly. In 1574, Philip Howard graduated from Saint John's College, Cambridge, and shortly after, he became a courtier to Queen Elizabeth at the young age of 18. He was appointed Earl of Arundel and Surrey on 24 February 1580, solidifying his social status. It was during his time at the royal court that Philip led a reckless and sinful life, indulging in the vices common among the aristocracy. However, his encounter with the events at the Tower of London in 1581 had a profound impact on him. Witnessing the proceedings against prominent Catholic figures, including Saint Edmund Campion and Saint Ralph Sherwin, stirred within him a desire to reconsider his faith. In September 1584, Philip withdrew from the royal court and returned to his ancestral home in Arundel to reflect on his own beliefs and embrace Catholicism. After careful consideration, he converted to Catholicism on 30 September 1584, marking a turning point in his life. Philip Howard harbored intentions to move abroad to practice his newfound faith freely. Unfortunately, his plans were thwarted when a servant betrayed him. On 15 April 1585, he was arrested and subsequently imprisoned in the Tower of London on 25 April. The authorities subjected him to extensive interrogations, ultimately charging him with treason solely on the basis of his Catholic faith. He was fined £10,000 and returned to prison. Despite his harsh imprisonment, Philip remained steadfast in his devotion to Catholicism and spent long hours in prayer each day. Tragically, his mistreatment and neglect led to his death from malnutrition on 19 October 1595. He was buried in the graveyard of the Tower church beside his father and grandfather. In 1624, Philip Howard's remains were re-interred in Long Horsley. Eventually, his relics found a final resting place in the Fitzalan Chapel, Arundel. His veneration grew over the years, culminating in his beatification on 15 December 1929 by Pope Pius XI. He was finally canonized on 25 October 1970 by Pope Paul VI. Saint Philip Howard is recognized as one of the Forty Martyrs of England and Wales, a group of individuals who courageously stood firm in their Catholic faith during a time of intense persecution. He is often depicted as an Elizabethan nobleman, accompanied by a greyhound, which symbolizes loyalty. His feast day is celebrated on 19 October, and he is also commemorated on 25 October as one of the Forty Martyrs of England and Wales. Saint Philip Howard is revered as the patron saint of the dioceses of Arundel and Brighton in England, as well as for those who have suffered from betrayal, difficult marriages, false accusations, and separated spouses. The life of Saint Philip Howard serves as an inspiration for Catholics to remain steadfast in their faith, even during challenging times, and to persevere in the pursuit of spiritual truth.