The Narrow Door and the Brave Heart: St. Margaret Clitherow’s Witness for Our Times

Celebrating the Feast of St. Margaret Clitherow – Saturday, August 30th 

St. Margaret Clitherow, pray for us, and help us to follow Christ with courage and conviction! 

This Sunday, Jesus gives us a challenge in the Gospel: “Strive to enter through the narrow door.” (Luke 13:24) 

It's a call to embrace the Christian faith fully — not just in convenience, but with courage. And this week, as we reflect on these words, we have a special opportunity to honour the life of St. Margaret Clitherow, whose feast day is this Saturday, August 30th. 

St. Margaret lived in 16th-century England, during a time when Catholics were persecuted for refusing to worship in the Anglican Church. Despite the danger, Margaret chose to remain faithful to the teachings of the Catholic Church, secretly hosting priests and ensuring the faithful could attend Mass. 

In 1586, Margaret was arrested and sentenced to death for her refusal to betray her faith. Rather than plead guilty or save herself by compromising, she remained silent, protecting her family. She was martyred, crushed to death under a door, on Good Friday — a powerful witness to Christ’s ultimate sacrifice. 

Her life embodies the message of today’s Gospel. Jesus calls us to strive for the narrow door — a path that isn’t always easy but leads to eternal life. St. Margaret chose that path, even at great cost, because she knew that true discipleship meant following Jesus above all else. 

As we approach her feast day, let us reflect on how we are walking through the narrow door. Are we choosing Christ even when it is difficult? Do we stand firm in our faith, even when the world pressures us to compromise? 

This Saturday, August 30th, as we celebrate the life of St. Margaret Clitherow, let her example inspire us to live with the same bold faith. Let us ask ourselves: 

• What am I willing to sacrifice for my faith?

• Am I following the narrow door to Christ, or taking the easier path?

• How can I live more fully for Jesus this week? Gospel Reflection: Luke 13:22–30 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time (C)