The Legacy of St. Thomas More and the Potential Exhumation of His Skull
The skull of St. Thomas More, a revered Catholic saint who was executed in 1535 for his steadfast faith, may soon be unearthed from its resting place at St. Dunstan’s Church in Canterbury, England. This potential exhumation has sparked interest among both religious and historical communities, as it presents an opportunity for ecumenical collaboration between the Anglican and Catholic Churches.
St. Dunstan’s Parochial Church Council (PCC) is currently exploring the possibility of retrieving the remains, viewing it as a significant moment for fostering dialogue and unity between different Christian denominations. According to Sue Palmer, a churchwarden, the presence of a Catholic saint’s relics in an Anglican church is rare, and the PCC sees this as a chance to strengthen ties with the Catholic Church.
The decision comes amid preparations for the 500th anniversary of St. Thomas More’s death in 2035. The church has outlined plans to exhume and conserve what remains of the relic, which could take several years to dry out and stabilize. Once stabilized, the remains might be placed in a reliquary or displayed in a shrine within the Roper chapel, a space that many visitors have requested for such a purpose.
A Historical Journey of St. Thomas More’s Remains
St. Thomas More, who served as Lord Chancellor of England under King Henry VIII, was executed in 1535 for refusing to acknowledge the king as the head of the Church of England. His head was initially placed on London Bridge, but it was later saved by his daughter, Margaret Roper. It is believed that the head was eventually entombed with her in the family vault at St. Dunstan’s Church.
According to accounts, the skull has been stored in a niche within the church’s wall. In 1997, archaeologists opened the tomb and described finding what appeared to be a leaden object that had been hacked open, revealing some pieces of skull, a jawbone with a tooth socket, and other remnants. While the exact condition of the remains is not fully known, the church believes the skull is still in the vault.
Ecumenical Significance and Global Interest
St. Dunstan’s Church has long attracted pilgrims and visitors who venerate St. Thomas More’s unwavering faith. The church acknowledges that the relic holds global significance, particularly for Catholics and scholars who see him as a symbol of conscience and steadfastness. The current plan reflects a growing recognition of the need for better preservation and accessibility of the relic.
The proposal also highlights the complex religious history of England, where the relationship between the Anglican and Catholic Churches has evolved over centuries. By involving both communities and seeking input from the international community, the church aims to ensure the process is respectful and collaborative.
Steps Toward Final Approval
Final approval for the exhumation must come from the Commissary General, the equivalent of a diocesan judge. If granted, the conservation and enshrinement process could begin, with the goal of completing preparations in time for the 500th anniversary of St. Thomas More’s martyrdom in 2035.
St. Dunstan’s Church continues to serve as a pilgrimage site, drawing visitors who seek to honor the legacy of St. Thomas More. The planned exhumation represents not only a step toward preserving history but also a symbolic gesture of unity and respect across denominations.
The Lasting Impact of a Faithful Statesman
St. Thomas More, canonized by the Vatican in 1935, is recognized as a martyr by the Catholic Church and is revered as the Patron Saint of Statesmen and Politicians. His famous last words—“I die the king’s good servant, but God’s first”—continue to inspire those who value integrity and faith.
As the church moves forward with its plans, the exhumation of St. Thomas More’s skull stands as a testament to the enduring impact of his life and the ongoing efforts to bridge religious divides through shared heritage and mutual respect.
