Homily: Feast of St. Thomas Moore and John Fisher

Feast of St. Thomas Moore and John Fisher (Mt. 6:7-15) “Deafening Silence.”

One of my favorite films of all times is “A Man for All Seasons.” This was also an award-winning play. Thomas More is the most famous of the English martyrs. He died because he would not endorse the divorce of Henry the VIII in 16th Century. Henry eventually made himself the leader of the Church of England.

Thomas More does not directly criticize the king. He just remains silent concerning his feelings regarding Henry VIII’s divorce. His silence is deafening. Because of his great stature in England this poses a threat to King Henry. He is perceived to be more loyal to the Pope than the king.

All the other leaders of the country endorse Henry’s second marriage even though they have reservations. They know that if they do not support Henry they will lose their privileged positions in society, their property and possibly their very lives. They also resent Thomas More for not imitating their cooperation. His courage embarrasses them.

One by one they come to St. Thomas asking him to change his mind. At one point, even his favorite daughter Margaret begged him to change his mind about resisting Henry’s plans. She realized that his silence would eventually lead to his death. She can’t understand why her father won’t save himself for the sake of his family.

Thomas More gives a very eloquent defense of his position. He speaks of the importance of conscience. He speaks of the conscience as a very delicate thing. He explains to Margaret that maintaining conscience is like cupping water in your hands. If you compromise it is like spreading your fingers and letting the water run out. One a person stops following their conscience it gradually disappears and there is no integrity left.

Maintaining one’s integrity can be costly. It was for Thomas More. He was eventually imprisoned in the Tower of London. After many months he was tried and beheaded. He was a martyr of conscience.

Reflection Questions:

1.    Have I ever stood up for my principles even though they were different from other people? When did I do this?

2.   Is it better to always compromise on one’s beliefs? What is the cost of that.

 Dear Parishioners,

           Today I will be attending the Jubilee celebration for the priests of the diocese. This is always a special day for those celebrating their silver and golden jubilees. There are priests who are celebrating anniversaries that will be celebrating jubilees. One priest that was here for a few years was Fr. Scott Andrejek. He is celebrating his 25th anniversary of ordination. He is now the pastor of St. Joseph in Pekin.

          Please pray for all the priests of the diocese. This is a hard time to be a priest. Every era has its special challenges. We are fortunate many men have persevered. Anyone who lives a vowed Christian life is a powerful witness. We see in them icons of God’s fidelity.

          May our Lady pray for us,

          Fr. Mark