St. Robert Barnes, Martyr

Today is the feast day of Robert Barnes, Lutheran martyr during the reign of Henry VIII of England. Barnes was burned in 1540 for teaching that faith alone justifies.

Precious to the Lord is the death of His saints.

All praise for England's martyr
Of brighter faith than fame,
Whose witness to the Gospel
Glowed brightest in the flame!
Lord, grant that our confession-
Like Robert's- may inspire
In other hearts the kindling
Of Your most holy fire.