| Saint Nicholas Pieck | |
|---|---|
| Friar Minor, Martyr | |
| Born | 29 August 1534 Gorkum, Holland |
| Died | 9 July 1572 Briel, Holland |
| Beatified | 24 November 1675 by Pope Clement X |
| Canonized | 29 June 1867 by Pope Pius IX |
| Major shrine | Briel |
| Feast | 9 July |
Nicholas Pieck was the son of John Pieck and Henriea Clavia, devout Catholics. He was sent to college at 's-Hertogenbosch, and as soon as he had completed his classical studies he received the habit of the Friars Minor at the convent in that town. Nicholas was ordained a priest in 1558, devoting himself to the apostolic ministry. He was appointed guardian of the convent at Gorkum, his native town.
He preached against Calvinism. In particular, he preached the dogma of the Real Presence. In June 1572, the citadel of Gorkum was taken by the Watergeuzen. Nicholas and eight other Franciscans were captured and tortured. Other priests were captured, bringing the total to 19. They were taken to Briel in July. The commander of the Watergeuzen, William II de la Marck, promised them freedom if they would renounce the authority of the pope. None did. They were hanged July 9, 1572, and became known as the Martyrs of Gorkum.
This article incorporates text from a publication now in the public domain: Herbermann, Charles, ed (1913). "St. Nicholas Pieck". Catholic Encyclopedia. Robert Appleton Company.