A Protestant Conversion.

Henry was born on December 16, 1599, in Peterborough, England, the son of Protestant parents. He showed exceptional intellect and at the age of 18, was sent to the University of Cambridge. After graduating, he was placed in charge of the university’s library.

Due to his doubt in the Protestant faith, which became stronger as he advanced his studies, he began to investigate the teachings of the Catholic Church. He soon saw how it was not possible to defend Protestantism on logical and historical grounds and decided to embrace Catholicism.

From the beginning of his conversion, he distinguished himself by his devotion to Our Lady.

He left Cambridge secretly, without his father knowing, and sought a Catholic nobleman in London, but was taken for a spy. He sought the aid of the Blessed Virgin and instead was well received and introduced to a priest, who admitted him into the Church. The young convert then left England and went to the English College at Douai.

At the age of 25, he joined the Franciscans and received the name of Friar Paul of Saint Magdalene.

4 years later, he was ordained a priest and was highly esteemed for his virtue and knowledge. His father remained a bitter Protestant, but Father Paul begged the Blessed Mother to lead him into the fold of the Church, and a most remarkable conversion followed. His 80-year-old father crossed the sea to find his son at Douai, and not only make peace, but he also joined the Franciscans there as a lay brother.

Many conversions were made by Father Paul through his prayers and labors.

He was described as a mirror of meekness, integrity, and sincerity.

In 1641, the English Civil War and Puritan persecution of the Catholics in England broke out, which was directed particularly against the priests. Paul left Douai for Dunkirk and crossed the channel to Dover. On the way to London, he was apprehended. After admitting he was a priest and making a fearless profession of faith, he was thrown into prison where he remained for several months.

He was condemned to be executed at Tyburn and he invoked the names of Jesus and Mary with his last words being, “O Jesus, forgive me my sins! Jesus, convert England! Jesus, have mercy on this country! O England, be converted to the Lord thy God!”

He died a martyr on April 27, 1643, at the age of 43 with his father and several fellow friars in attendance.

For God’s Glory.