George Douglas (martyr)

George Douglas (c. 1540[1]-1587) was one of the Eighty-five martyrs of England and Wales.[2]

Born in Edinburgh, he was originally a teacher by profession.[3] His family were from Bonjedward near Jedburgh in the Scottish Borders.[1]

Converting to Catholicism, he travelled to France around 1556[1] where he was ordained a secular priest[4] in Notre Dame, Paris, in 1574- possibly at the testimonial of Mary, Queen of Scots.[1] Returning to the north of England, he was a priest in York,[3] where it seems he was 'apparelled in course canvas dublit and hose,' and in the East Midlands as well.[5] Captured and found guilty in York of 'persuading the Queen's subjects away' from Protestantism,[6] he was executed on 9 September 1587.[3]

He was beatified by Pope John Paul II on 22 November 1987.[2]

See also

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