St. Thomas Becket
Feast day: December 29
Born in London, Thomas was a clerk to Archbishop Theobald of Canterbury. He studied canon law and was ordained a deacon. His support of Henry II’s claim to England’s throne led to his appointment as royal chancellor. He was then named Theobald’s successor at Canterbury. Thomas and the king clashed over many issues, including the jurisdiction of ecclesiastical courts. He fled to France for six years. Soon after his return, Henry’s desire to be rid of this troublesome prelate led to Thomas’ murder by four knights. Pope Alexander III canonized Thomas on February 21, 1173.
Collect
O God, who gave the Martyr Saint Thomas Becket
the courage to give up his life for the sake of justice,
grant, through his intercession,
that, renouncing our life
for the sake of Christ in this world,
we may find it in heaven.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
