More than 100 Catholics were martyred at Tyburn, and the total number equals many more. Forty were canonised by Pope (now St) Paul VI in 1970, and here is part of his homily: ‘To all those who are filled with admiration in reading the records of these martyrs, it is perfectly clear that they are worthy to stand alongside the greatest martyrs of the past; and this is not merely because of their fearless faith and marvellous constancy, but by reason of their humility, simplicity and serenity, and above all the spiritual joy and that wondrously radiant love with which they accepted their condemnation and death’.

In meeting our own challenges of faith, may we learn something of their ‘humility, simplicity and serenity’. May they pray for us, and may God bless you.