They were an unlikely pair. Thomas More was the Lord Chancellor of England — witty, brilliant, a husband and father of four, one of the most respected men in the kingdom. John Fisher was the elderly Bishop of Rochester — austere, scholarly, the confessor of Catherine of Aragon. What they shared was this: when King Henry VIII demanded they sign an oath denying the Pope's authority and legitimizing his break from the Church, both men said no.
They were imprisoned in the Tower of London. John Fisher was executed first, in June 1535. Thomas More followed two weeks later. On the scaffold, More reportedly joked with the executioner, moved his beard aside, and said it at least had committed no treason. He died, he said, the King's good servant — but God's first.
They are among the most beloved martyrs of the English Reformation, and their feast is a stunning reminder that fidelity to the Church is not a small thing. It can cost everything.
Enjoy Feast Day Food
Every food idea for this feast is rooted in the themes of the day — English tradition, imprisonment, and courage at the table:
- English food — Bangers and mash, fish and chips, a shepherd's pie, scones with clotted cream and jam, or a simple pot of tea and biscuits. Set the table with a bit of ceremony in their honor.
- A "prison meal" contrast — For older kids, consider starting with something very plain — bread and water — before the real meal. Talk briefly about what More and Fisher endured, then enjoy the rest together as a celebration of their courage.
- Victoria sponge or shortbread — A classic English dessert to close the feast.
Make the Tower of London Lift-the-Flap Craft
Use the Tower of London Lift-the-Flap Craft from the June Printable Pack to assemble a scene revealing St. Thomas More and St. John Fisher imprisoned — and at peace. As kids work, talk about what it means to be faithful when it's hard. Ask them: If everyone around you said something was fine when you knew it wasn't, could you stay quiet? Could you say no? These are not abstract questions. More and Fisher lived them.
Listen to the Life of St. Thomas More
The Saints Alive Podcast has a wonderful episode on St. Thomas More — put it on during craft time, during dinner, or during a car ride today. Hearing his story told well makes it land differently for kids (and adults). Listen here.
Pray
For strong marriages. For politicians and those in public office, that they might have the courage to serve God before party or power. For the unity of all Christians — that the divisions of the Reformation might one day be healed, and that all might come together as one flock under one shepherd.
St. Thomas More and St. John Fisher, pray for us.
