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ST. THOMAS A'BECKET, OUR PATRON SAINT

Thomas a'Becket was born December 21, 1118, in London England, to a wealthy family. He was educated and worked as a trusted clerk where his remarkable skills brought him to the attention of King Henry II. The king was so impressed by Thomas' abilities that he made him Chancellor of England, the most powerful position in the kingdom.

Henry II sought complete control over his realm, including the Catholic Church, and realized he needed an Archbishop who would support him. Thomas, a deacon, was studying theology. The king persuaded Thomas to become Archbishop of Canterbury. Thomas agreed and, within two weeks, he was ordained a priest and made Archbishop.

The king continued his efforts to reduce the influence of the Catholic Church in England which Thomas boldly opposed. Some of the king's nobles were aware of the king's desire to rid England of Thomas and went to Canterbury Cathedral, where they murdered him on December 29, 1170.

That such an evil act was committed against a man of God within a house of God was unbelievable. Thomas a'Becket, a martyr, was canonized three years after his death.

Early manuscript illustration of the murder of Thomas Becket

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