Blessed Everard Hanse - July 30th
Everard was born in England of a non-Catholic family. He went to the University of Cambridge, and became a minister. As a preacher he was very popular, and he was quite proud of his success. Everard’s brother William, who had become a Catholic, tried to bring him into the Church, but Everard did not seem to want to listen. However, a serious sickness made him look deep into his own heart, and his brother’s words began to take effect. He sent for William and was received into the Church.
Everard became a priest after studying in France. Then, although he knew he was risking his life, he went back to England, where the Catholics were being persecuted. Just three months later, he was arrested. When he declared that he believed the Pope was the Head of the Church and that he wished all men could believe the Catholic Faith, as he did, he was condemned to death.
From prison, Blessed Everard wrote to his brother: “I cannot tell you how contented I am. This dignity (of being a martyr) is too high for a sinner, but God is merciful. The day and hour of my birth to eternal life are near.” At the place of execution he begged all Catholics to pray for him and with him! Even as he was suffering, he murmured, “O happy day!”
Let us learn from this glorious Martyr how to take little pains for the love of God, without complaining.
