TODAY’S GOSPEL READING – 26 MARCH
March 26, 2026
Day Thirty-Three of Lent – “My God, My God, Why Have You Forsaken Me?”
March 27, 2026
CALLED TO COURAGE IN ORDINARY LIFE
“Be strong and courageous; do not be afraid… for the Lord your God goes with you.”
— Deuteronomy 31:6
Margaret Clitherow was a simple housewife and mother in York, yet she responded to God’s call with extraordinary courage. After her conversion to the Catholic faith, she chose to live boldly for Christ despite severe persecution.
She turned her home into a refuge for hunted priests, hiding them in a secret chamber. Her ordinary life became a mission field where faith triumphed over fear.
FAITH THAT DEFIES PERSECUTION
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
— Matthew 5:10
During the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, practicing the Catholic faith was punishable by law. Margaret refused to attend Anglican services and accepted imprisonment rather than deny her beliefs.
She was arrested multiple times, yet her faith remained unshaken. Even in prison, she radiated peace and steadfast trust in God.
LOVE THAT RISKS EVERYTHING
“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.”
— John 15:13
Margaret risked her life daily by sheltering priests and arranging secret Masses. She knew the consequences, yet love for God and His Church outweighed fear of death.
When authorities discovered the priest hole in her home, she did not attempt to escape or deny her actions, choosing instead to protect others from punishment.
SILENT WITNESS THROUGH SUFFERING
“Whoever would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”
— Luke 9:23
Margaret refused to plead in court, knowing that a trial would force her children to testify against her. By remaining silent, she accepted the brutal sentence of death by pressing.
On 25 March 1586, she was executed in York, enduring immense suffering with calm surrender. Her silence became a powerful testimony of love and sacrifice.
HOLINESS IN FAMILY LIFE
“As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
— Joshua 24:15
Margaret’s sanctity was rooted in her role as a wife and mother. She raised her children in the faith, teaching them courage and fidelity to God.
Even her husband, though not sharing her faith, respected her integrity and strength. Her home became a hidden sanctuary of grace.
TRUST IN GOD ABOVE ALL
“The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?”
— Psalm 27:1
Margaret faced death without fear because her trust was fully in God. She famously said she would rather die than betray the priests she protected.
Her life reveals a soul anchored in divine strength, unmoved by threats or suffering.
LEGACY OF COURAGEOUS FAITH
“Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.”
— Revelation 2:10
Saint Margaret Clitherow is remembered as one of the martyrs of England, canonized by Pope Paul VI in 1970.
Her witness continues to inspire believers to stand firm in faith, no matter the cost. Her life reminds us that true courage is born from love of God.
