A blog entitled "Canterbury Tales" wouldn't be worth its salt if it didn't remind
everyone that today is the memorial of Saint Thomas Becket, bishop and martyr.
Born in London ca. 1118, Thomas Becket later became the chancellor toKing Henr
II. In 1162, Becket became the Archbishop of Canterbury. Thomas went from
being a follower of hounds to a shepherd of souls. His apostolic zeal put him at
odds with his old friend and patron King Henry II who had issued the Constitutions
of Clarendon as a means to tax the Church, make appointments, try the clergy,
and undermine papal authority. Becket opposed Henry II and was force to seek
refuge in France for six years. When he returned, he was murdered in Canterbury
Cathedral by agents of the Henry II.
He stands as an advocate for the rights of the papacy and as a patron against the
audacious claim of the English throne.
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