About St. Richard

St. Richard de Wych of Chichester lived from 1197 to 1253. He was a bishop of Canterbury and persevered in the reformation of the clergy and the power of the clergy over the King. St. Richard also performed works of charity for the homeless and was canonized a saint in 1262.

Christians, especially Anglo-Catholics are still inspired by the prayer St. Richard composed on his deathbed.

St. Richard Prayer

Thanks be to you, our Lord Jesus Christ,
for all the benefits which you have given us,
for all the pains and insults which you have borne for us.
Most merciful Redeemer, Friend and Brother,
may we know you more clearly,
love you more dearly,
and follow you more nearly,
day by day.
Amen.

St. Richard Carried on Work of St. Thomas Becket

St. Richard was dedicated to St. Thomas Becket. He carried on St. Thomas' defense of the power of the Pope over the king. He never tired of preaching the duties of his Order and protecting his clergy from the king's men or from King Henry himself.

St. Richard's Tomb Defiled

King Henry defiled St. Richard's tomb, dismantling it and removing his body. The St. Richard Shrine was a popular site for Christians to visit and pray. The shrine was not rebuilt until St. Richard's relics were restored fifteen years later.

St. Richard Remembered

People today continue to recite the prayer St. Richard composed while he was dying. Many people wear a St. Richard medal or a St. Richard charm while praying the saints dying words of faith. They give thanks to the Lord for all He has given them and live by St. Richard's example, defending the faith and the Church.

Wearing a St. Richard necklace reminds Catholics to lift high the Cross of Christ, living as soldiers of God, and spreading His Good News to everyone they meet each and every day.