Saint Thomas A Becket

Biography

Saint Thomas A Becket, also known as Thomas Beckett or Thomas of Canterbury, was born on 21 December 1118 in London, England. He came from a Norman ancestry and received his education at Merton Priory, the University of Paris, in Bologna, Italy, and in Auxerre, France. Thomas was trained as a civil and canon lawyer, and he also served as a soldier and officer. In 1154, Thomas Becket was ordained as the Archdeacon of Canterbury, England. He developed a close friendship with King Henry II and eventually became the Chancellor of England. However, his life took a significant turn when he was ordained as a priest on 2 June 1162 and appointed as the Archbishop of Canterbury on 3 June 1162. As archbishop, Thomas Becket soon found himself in conflict with King Henry II. The king sought to exert his authority and interfere in ecclesiastical matters, which Thomas vehemently opposed. This resistance to the king's interference led to his exile from England on multiple occasions. The tension between Thomas Becket and King Henry II escalated, ultimately resulting in the archbishop's tragic murder. On 29 December 1170, while Thomas was in the Cathedral at Canterbury, supporters of the king attacked and killed him. This brutal act earned Thomas Becket the status of martyr. Throughout his representation in art, Saint Thomas A Becket is often depicted as an archbishop with a wounded head, symbolizing his martyrdom. He is also shown as an archbishop holding an inverted sword or kneeling before his murderers. Some representations illustrate his murder taking place in a church. The crosier he carries is unique, featuring a battle-axe head at the top. Saint Thomas A Becket is venerated as a saint in the Catholic Church, particularly in the post-congregation period. His feast days are celebrated on 29 December in commemoration of his martyrdom and on 7 July to mark the translation of his relics. Some of his relics are enshrined at the Ladyewell Shrine in Lancaster, England. Pope Alexander III canonized Thomas Becket on 21 February 1173, recognizing his martyrdom and sanctity. He is revered as the patron saint of clergy, Exeter College in Oxford, England, and Portsmouth, England. Additionally, he is regarded as a patron saint of secular clergy and the Worshipful Company of Brewers. Saint Thomas A Becket's life serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment to upholding the rights and independence of the Church.