John Finglow was a 16th-century English priest who served the Catholic Church during a period of intense religious tension. Born in Barmby, East Yorkshire, he studied at Caius College, Cambridge, before traveling to the English College in Reims to pursue his vocation. Following his ordination in 1581, he returned to England to conduct missionary work. His activities in northern England eventually led to his arrest by authorities, resulting in his execution in 1586.
Life and death
After completing his studies in Cambridge, Finglow moved to Reims in 1580. He was ordained a priest in March 1581 and began his mission in England shortly thereafter. For approximately five years, he operated within the north of the country. He was eventually captured and held in York, where he faced trial for his religious activities and for reconciling citizens to the Catholic faith. He was sentenced to death and executed in August 1586.
Veneration
Recognized as a martyr for his faith, Finglow is honored within the Catholic tradition. He was officially beatified in 1987, marking his status as a blessed figure in the church.