(Feast Day: June 22)
Saint Thomas More was an English lawyer, author, and statesman who lived from 1478 to 1535. He is best known for his unwavering adherence to his conscience and for his opposition to King Henry VIII's break with the Roman Catholic Church, which ultimately led to his execution.
More was born into a wealthy family and received an excellent education. He went on to become a successful lawyer and was eventually appointed as Lord Chancellor of England in 1529. However, More's deep religious convictions made him unable to support King Henry VIII's efforts to divorce his wife, Catherine of Aragon, in order to marry Anne Boleyn. When More refused to publicly acknowledge the King's authority over the Church, he was forced to resign as Lord Chancellor.
Despite his resignation, More continued to oppose the King's actions and refused to take an oath recognizing Henry VIII's position as the head of the Church in England. For this refusal, he was charged with treason, found guilty, and executed by beheading in 1535.
Throughout his life, More was known for his piety, his commitment to living a just life, and his remarkable intellect. He wrote extensively, including the influential work "Utopia," which explored the nature of the ideal society.
Saint Thomas More is celebrated as a model of integrity, a defender of conscience, and a martyr for the Catholic faith. He is honored as the patron saint of lawyers and politicians, and his life serves as an inspiration to those who strive to live a life of principle.
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