During the Elizabethan period, Richard Langley gave priests asylum in his home. He even built an underground retreat beneath one of his family’s two great estates. In 1586, he was betrayed and an armed dispatch of soldiers was sent to search his houses. They found two priests and apprehended Langley. At the trial, Langley refused to swear allegiance to the queen and sought no mercy from the lord president of Privy Council. He was condemned to death. At York, he was hanged, drawn and quartered, and his remains were refused an honorable burial.
Questions for Reflection:
- Have you done a kindness for someone you didn’t know? How often do you take the time to show someone you care?
- Even though it was illegal, Bl. Richard Langley still kept true to his faith. Have there been times when it has been difficult for you to hold onto your faith? How did you keep your faith strong?