John Fisher

Biography

He was a brilliant student, and received his doctorate from the University of Cambridge at the age of 22. He was ordained a priest shortly after and named vice-rector of that university. He was spiritual director of Margaret, mother of the king, who helped the university a lot. Juan was chosen as Chancellor and held this position until his death, being remembered as a true wise man and great benefactor. He was also named bishop of Rochester and also dedicated himself to this office with all the strength of his strong personality. He toured each of the parishes in his diocese and visited the homes of the poorest. He was demanding with his priests and encouraged them to fully fulfill their duties. He led a life as austere as that of a monk and did severe penances. He defended the Catholic Church against the pronouncements of Luther and later against his own king, Henry VIII, who wanted to divorce his legitimate wife and since the Pope could not grant it, he proclaimed himself head of the Church in England. He was imprisoned in the fearsome Tower of London and there he received the appointment of Cardinal. He bravely went to his death, praying the Te Deum, and when he finished it he lowered his head to have it cut off.