Thomas Becket: Defender of the Church

by John S. Hogan, Father John S Hogan

Thomas Becket: Defender of the Church reintroduces this enigmatic saint and invites us to consider his background, his influences, his progress in ambition and office, and his personal struggle for holiness. This biography reveals the relevance Thomas's life and struggle have to our own day. As secularism seeks to destroy faith, Catholics can turn to Saint Thomas for help. His is the story of every Christian; though the time and circumstances may differ, the struggle remains the same. Nine hundred years after his death, Saint Thomas Becket remains a man and a saint for our times.

544 pages, Paperback

Published October 30, 2020

About the author

Fr John S. Hogan is a priest of the Diocese of Meath in Ireland. Currently serving as a pastor in Ireland, he is the founder of the Fraternity of St Genesius, a private association of the faithful dedicated to intercession and support for the men and women of the theatrical and cinematic arts. He is co-host of EWTN's series Forgotten Heritage. He also works as chaplain, spiritual director and retreat leader. He is a professed member of the Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites.

Reviews

[Jeff Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an intriguing biography of St Thomas of Canterbury. The story as it is often summarized condensing so much in his life and his motivations. Often described as a conversion after becoming the Archbishop. The reality is so much more intriguing. That there was always a sort of piety to his actions as learned from his mother. He never quite lost this as he became more worldly, vain, lust to power. There was no St. Paul like conversion, but a conversion brought on slowly through conflict and suffering. All the mistakes he made in dealing with his friend King Henry. That upon his martyrdom many who thought they knew him and his motivations were challenged by the miracles occurring.

Such a great read learning about him and King Henry and his family.