Both were locked in the Tower of London. Fisher was beheaded on 22 June 1535. More followed on 6 July, telling the crowd that he died “the king’s good servant, and God’s first.” He was a lawyer, a husband, a father who personally educated his daughters at a time when that was rare, and a man known for his wit even on the scaffold. The Church celebrates them together on 22 June.
Historical Context
In 2000, Pope John Paul II named Thomas More patron saint of statesmen and politicians. The Religious Freedom Week observed by US Catholic bishops begins on this day.
A June 22 Prayer
Lord, on the feast of Sts John Fisher and Thomas More,
give me a conscience formed by your truth,
and the courage to follow it when it costs me.
Let me be a good servant of my country and my employer,
but yours first.
Bless those in public life with integrity,
and protect religious freedom everywhere.
Sts Thomas and John, pray for us.
Amen.
A Prayer for Politicians and Lawyers
St Thomas More, you served the law and the king with skill and honesty.
Pray for those who make and practise our laws,
that they may seek justice above all.
Amen.
For Good Humour Under Pressure
Lord, St Thomas More kept his humour even facing death.
Give me a light heart in heavy times.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- On 22 June.
- When pressured to act against your conscience.
- For elected officials, judges and lawyers.
Scripture Connection
“Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.” — Acts 5:29
More and Fisher were not rebels by nature. They respected authority. But when the king demanded what belonged to God, they chose God, as the apostles did.
Related prayers
For integrity, see the Integrity Prayer. For lawyers, the Lawyers Prayer. For courage, the Prayer of Fortitude.