(d.1535) In 1534, Henry VIII passed the Act of Supremacy, a law declaring himself the head of the Church of England. These men committed high treason when they refused to recognize him as head of the Church and were sentenced to death. John Houghton was the prior of the Carthusians (a strict order of monks) in London, and Robert and Augustine were Carthusian brothers. They were hanged, drawn, and quartered on May 4, 1535, becoming the first martyrs of the reign of Henry VIII.

Carthusians are similar to Benedictines in that work and prayer are their main occupations. The Carthusians are more strict with near-perpetual silence, abstinence from meat, and a bread and water fast once a week. They show us radical discipline, willingness, and humility. While our discipline is not nearly as severe, recovery teaches us that we can, with God’s help, learn a new way to live. We take each day as it comes, working and praying with faith.

“And what wilt thou do with my heart, O Christ?” (Saint John, dying words as he was being disembowelled)

Reflection by Brad Farmer