O Lord, open my lips.
And my mouth shall proclaim Your praise.

O God, come to my assistance, O Lord, make haste to help me.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be, world without end.

Amen.

"Chancellor, Archbishop, Martyr"

Thomas Becket, born in London in 1117, studied at the University of Paris, was ordained and quickly became a leading figure among the English clergy. On being made Archbishop of Canterbury he was called on the defend the freedom of the Church against the encroachments of Henry II whom he had served for eight years as a loyal chancellor. This resistance cost him his life. He was murdered in his cathedral, by the king's followers, on December 29, 1170.

With all the strength that is given us for the defence of God's rights we must resist those who seek to subject the Church to their power, even if they are those to whom on other grounds we owe service. In St. Thomas of Canterbury the Church celebrates one of her great bishops; by applying to him the Gospel of the Good Shepherd she venerates in him the true pastor of Christ's flock who gave his life for his sheep.

Acclamations For Reflection:—

• Let us all rejoice in the Lord, celebrating a festival day in honour of Blessed Thomas the Martyr: at whose martyrdom the angels rejoice, and praise the Son of God. Exult you just in the Lord; praise from the upright is fitting. (Psalm 32: 1).

• Behold a great priest, who in his day pleased God. There was not found the like to him, who kept the law of the Most High. (Ecclus. 44: 16 and 20). Alleluia, alleluia. I am the Good Shepherd: and I know My sheep, and Mine know Me, Alleluia.

• You placed on his head O Lord, a crown of pure gold. He asked life of You, and You gave it to him. Alleluia. (Psalm 20: 4 and 5).