In honor of “Martyrs' Day" at the Venerable English College, EWTN Vatican Bureau Chief Andreas Thonhauser interviewed the College’s Rector, Father Stephen Wang. While traditionally celebrated on December 1st, this year’s feast was marked on December 2nd, commemorating the inspiring legacy of England’s first seminarian martyr, Ralph Sherwin.
“Ralph Sherwin is such an important figure for us,” said Father Wang. “He was an establishment figure, educated at Eton and Oxford, who converted to Catholicism, studied in Rome, and returned to England full of missionary zeal. Sadly, he was arrested soon after his arrival, tortured, and executed at Tyburn. He has since become a model of courage and faith for seminarians.”
Father Wang explained that the College's formation emphasizes community, prayer, and study, alongside a renewed focus on mission and evangelization. “We encourage our seminarians to fall in love with the Lord, cherish His Church, and take that love back home, ready to serve their communities as priests with a clear vision for today’s Church.”
Rome itself plays a vital role in their preparation. “Being a seminarian in Rome means immersing yourself not just in study and prayer but in the city’s rich history, the example of its saints, and its living faith. It’s a transformative experience.”
As Ralph Sherwin’s story reminds us, a life devoted to Christ requires courage, love, and a willingness to give all for the faith. His legacy continues to inspire seminarians preparing for priestly service today.
Adapted by Jacob Stein
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Andreas Thonhauser is EWTN Vatican Bureau Chief. He holds an MBA from WU Executive Academy and a Master’s in German Philology and Americanistics from the University of Vienna. He previously worked in media and as Director of External Affairs for a global human rights organization, and for several media outlets in Vienna, Austria.
