This week in Christian history: Self-flagellation, Thomas More, John Scopes

Thomas More becomes Chancellor of England – October 26, 1529

This week marks the anniversary of when Sir Thomas More, the famed Catholic saint and writer executed for his religious objections to the second marriage of King Henry VIII, became lord chancellor of England.

While often remembered for championing freedom of conscience, while chancellor, More actively persecuted the nation’s Protestant population.

“More remained a passionate defender of Catholic orthodoxy - writing pamphlets against heresy, banning unorthodox books, and even taking responsibility when chancellor for the interrogation of heretics,” noted the BBC.

A few years after gaining his position, however, More offered his resignation in response to Henry VIII’s second marriage and the king’s decision to label himself head of the Church of England.