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July 12, Sts. Geoffrey and Joachim, Priests, religious of the Franciscan 1st Order, martyrs. John Wall, in religion Father Joachim of St Anna, was the fourth son of Anthony Wall of Chingle (Singleton)…More
July 12, Sts. Geoffrey and Joachim, Priests, religious of the Franciscan 1st Order, martyrs.
John Wall, in religion Father Joachim of St Anna, was the fourth son of Anthony Wall of Chingle (Singleton) Hall, Lancashire. He was born in 1620, and when very young, was sent to the English College at Douai. From there he proceeded to Rome, where he was raised to the priesthood in 1648. Several years later he returned to Douai and was clothed in the habit of St Francis in the convent of St Bonaventure. He made his solemn profession on January 1, 1652. So great was the estimation in which he was held by his brethren, that within a few months he was elected vicar of the convent, and soon after, master of novices.
In 1656 Father Joachim of St Anna joined the English mission, and for 12 years he labored on Worcestershire under the names of Francis Johnson or Webb, winning souls even more by his example than by his words. At Harvington to this day the memory of Blessed Father Johnson is cherished,…More