St. Thomas More

Lord Chancellor of England who died rather than swear that the king was head of the Church.

The story

Lawyer, scholar, author of Utopia, devoted father, and the most respected man in England, More resigned as Chancellor rather than approve Henry VIII's divorce and claim to headship of the Church. He was imprisoned in the Tower for fifteen months, convicted on perjured testimony, and beheaded. "I die the King's good servant, and God's first." St. John Fisher shares his feast.

What Thomas teaches

Conscience formed by the Church outranks the crown. More was cheerful to the end because he had already decided who he served.

Patronage

statesmen, politicians, lawyers.

Prayer

St. Thomas More, patron of public servants, give us integrity in our work and the courage to put God first. Amen.