Showing all posts dated August 8, 2026

Today’s saint—and we are not talking about St. Dominic—takes us to England during a time of great political tension. It is particularly important to note that, under the reign of Henry VIII, a difficult period began for Catholics who wished to remain faithful to their faith.

Henry VIII succeeded his father to the throne in 1509 at the age of seventeen. Initially, his countrymen were enthusiastic because he seemed to be a positive change from his father. However, over the years, his reign became oppressive. A fateful break with the Catholic Church ensued. Henry VIII wanted to divorce his wife, Catherine of Aragon, and have his marriage annulled so that he could marry another woman. She had not given him the male heir he desired. However, he did not receive the Pope’s approval. His passion for this woman—Anne Boleyn—was so great that he went through with the break with Rome. In 1534, Henry and Anne Boleyn were excommunicated by the Pope. That same year, Henry proclaimed himself “Supreme Head of the Church of England on Earth.” This marked the birth of the Anglicans.

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