Saint Ambrose Edward Barlow (1585-1641) was an English Benedictine monk. He is one of a group of saints canonized by Pope Paul VI who became known as the Forty Martyrs of England and Wales. He was born at Barlow Hall near Manchester in 1585. He was the fourth son of the nobleman Sir Alexander Barlow and his wife Mary. After completing his education Ambrose joined the Benedictine Church and became a priest in 1617.
He has been an active missionary in Lancashire. At the time he was in his mission, the English government did not allow the Catholic Church full independence. As a result, Amrose faced many difficulties in his career. He was imprisoned several times in a short period of time. King Charles I issued an edict ordering all Catholic priests in England to leave the country. It also declared that anyone who violated the order would be charged with treason.
One day while preaching in the church after the Mass, Ambrose was arrested by his opponents and brought before the court of law. After a provisional trial, the court sentenced him to life imprisonment. He was questioned by the authority several times. He boldly replied that he had done nothing but try to lead the people to the age-old Apostolic faith. However, the court ruled that Ambrose should be sentenced to death.
Ambrose was led from the prison cell at Lancaster Palace to the massacre. Singing Psalms, he rounded the gallows three times and welcomed death with joy.