This day reminds us, as also the Holy Innocents, that confessing Christ involves suffering and sometimes even death. St Thomas Becket was martyred on this day in 1170, for opposing King Henry II over the Church’s responsibilities and rights. Killed in his own cathedral of Canterbury, the place remains a pilgrimage site to this day.

May St Thomas pray for us, that we may be faithful in our own time; and may God bless you this day.