The Life of Blessed Peter Wright

Welcome to the page dedicated to Blessed Peter Wright! Here we celebrate the life and contributions of this remarkable individual. Blessed Peter Wright's story is one of faith, courage, and service to the community. His life serves as an inspiration to all who hear it.

A short Biography

Blessed Peter Wright was an English Jesuit priest and martyr, born in 1603 in Slipton, Northamptonshire, England. He is remembered for his steadfast commitment to his faith during the reformation.

Early Life and Conversion

Peter Wright's early life was marked by a modest background. His was born to Protestant parents and was raised in the Church of England. However, around 1629, he converted to Catholicism. He also spent ten years of his life working as a solicitor in Thrapston, Northamptonshire. As a young man, Wright served as a soldier in the army of King Charles I.

Religious Vocation

Following his conversion, Wright felt a calling to the religious life. He left England for the Continent, where he joined the Jesuit order in 1636. Wright undertook his novitiate and further studies in Rome, a common practice for English Catholics discerning religious life due to the persecution in their home country.

Ministry and Mission

In 1638, Peter Wright was ordained as a Catholic priest. After ordination, he was sent on various missions, including time spent in Ghent, Belgium. He returned to England in 1644, despite the risks involved, to serve the covert Catholic community. His ministry included celebrating Mass, administering the sacraments, and offering spiritual support to Catholics who had to practice their faith secretly.

Arrest and Martyrdom

Eventually, Wright's activities attracted the attention of the authorities and in December 1650, he was arrested in London. His trial took place in January 1651, during which he was charged with high treason for being a Catholic priest, convicted and sentenced to death.

On May 19, 1651, Peter Wright was executed at Tyburn. He faced his death with remarkable composure and courage, a testament to his deep faith and commitment to his religious vocation. His final words were a prayer for his persecutors, asking God to forgive them.

Beatification

Peter Wright was beatified by Pope Pius XI on December 15, 1929. His feast day is celebrated on May 19, the anniversary of his martyrdom. Blessed Peter Wright is remembered for his dedication to his faith and his unwavering commitment to his duties as a Jesuit priest, even in the face of persecution and death.

His life and martyrdom are an enduring testament to the resilience of faith and the ultimate sacrifice made by those who hold firm to their religious convictions in the face of adversity.