The Venerable English College: A Testament to Martyrs and Mission
The Venerable English College: A Testament to Martyrs and Mission
Nestled in the heart of Rome, the 450-year-old Venerable English College continues its inspiring mission as a school for missionaries.
Fr. Christopher Warren, Vice-Rector of the Venerable English College, describes the peril faced by Catholics during the English Reformation: “For priests and those who supported them, it was a matter of life and death.” This danger necessitated the establishment of priestly formation on the continent, leading to the foundation of the Venerable English College.
After ordination, young priests would return to England and Wales to minister in secrecy. Many were tortured and executed, including the college's first martyr, St. Ralph Sherwin, on December 1, 1581. Over the next 100 years, 44 alumni were martyred, many through hanging, drawing, and quartering.
The College’s Rector, Fr. Stephen Wang, sees this history as deeply relevant today: “Cultures are not always welcoming to the Gospel. We need missionary priests who can share the faith with love, courage, and creativity in challenging circumstances.”
Students at the college share a unique connection through Liber Ruber – "the Red Book" – where, since 1579, all seminarians have signed the missionary oath. The first to sign was St. Ralph Sherwin, pledging to return home hodie quam cras – "today rather than tomorrow."
A reminder of their mission is found in the college chapel, where a 1580 painting depicts St. Thomas of Canterbury and St. Edmund, King of East Anglia, pointing toward the Flaminian Gate – the road home.
As Fr. Wang explains: “Our vocation is not to remain in Rome but to return home on mission, bringing the Good News of Jesus to those who need the Gospel.”
