St. Thomas Becket was born in London in 1118 to a Norman family. He became an important figure in Christian history. He received his early education at the Benedictine abbey of Merton, which helped him develop his intelligence. He then continued his studies in France and at the University of Bologna, where he learned law and theology. By 1154, Becket was well-known in the Church as the archdeacon of Canterbury. That same year, King Henry II appointed him Chancellor of England. In this role, Becket became one of the king's key advisors. Things changed in 1161 when Becket became Archbishop of Canterbury. At first, people thought this would strengthen the king's control over the Church, but Becket's strong faith soon took priority over his loyalty to the king. As Archbishop, he defended the Church's independence and often disagreed with Henry II about issues like the Clarendon Constitutions of 1164, which aimed to limit the Church's legal rights. When Becket refused to support these measures, his relationship with Henry turned from friendship to rivalry. In 1164, after a difficult trial, Becket fled to France and found safety in a Cistercian monastery. His six years in exile did not weaken his determination. Instead, he became a symbol of Church freedom and gathered support against royal interference. When he returned in 1170, people welcomed him back, but tensions with Henry were still high. The situation worsened when Henry, frustrated with Becket's resistance, allegedly called for his murder. On December 29, 1170, Becket was killed in Canterbury Cathedral. He remained loyal to God even as he faced death. His martyrdom caused anger and led to important changes in the relationship between the Church and the state. Pope Alexander III canonized St. Thomas in 1173.
St. Thomas Becket, pray that your steadfast faith inspires us and that your courage in the face of adversity strengthens our resolve.
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