Anthony Brookby

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Anthony Brookby (Brorbey) (executed 19 July 1537) was an English Franciscan theologian. He offended Henry VIII, and became a Catholic martyr.

Life and ministry

Brookby was a lecturer in theology at Magdalen College, Oxford. He was versed in Greek and Hebrew, and enjoyed a reputation as an eloquent preacher. In one sermon, Brookby attacked the king's actions and mode of living.[1]

He was arrested, put to the rack, and tortured in order to make him retract what he had said. Disabled as a result of his tortures, Brookby was cared for by a pious woman for a fortnight. By the command of the king, an executioner strangled him to death, with the Franciscan cord which he wore around his waist.[1]

The year of his death has been questioned, with the Victoria County History for Kent placing the event in 1534.[2]

Friar Anthony Brookby was declared venerable by Pope Leo XIII in 1886

References

  1. 1.[1.2]Herbermann, Charles, ed. (1913). "Anthony Brookby". Catholic Encyclopedia. New York: Robert Appleton Company.
  2. 2.Friaries: The observant friars of Greenwich. Vol. 2. London: Victoria County History. 1926. pp. 194–198.