St Alban is venerated as the Proto-Martyr of England. In the city of Verulamium, now named after him, he was arrested for sheltering a priest who was on the run from persecution. While in Alban’s home, the priest shared his faith with him and Alban was inspired. When the authorities arrived to arrest the priest, Alban changed clothes with him and so was arrested in his place. The priest escaped, and Alban was beheaded.

St Alban’s Abbey now stands on the hill where Alban lost his life, and it is a place of pilgrimage today. May he pray for us, and for our country, that we may stand firm in our faith, whatever the cost. May God bless you this day.