At the archbishop's recommendation, Thomas was made Chancellor of England, a post he held for eight years. Thomas loved his life. He spent money on clothes, entertainment, hunting, and good times. A strong friendship developed between him and the King. Unfortunately, Henry II wanted complete control of his kingdom, including the Catholic Church. Henry II wanted to take some powers away from the Church and he needed an archbishop that would aupport him.
Henry believed Thomas could support his friend of many years in this effort. However, Thomas strongly objected to the King's plan. Faced with the responsibility of leading the people of God, Thomas changed his manner of living and began his studies of Theology anew. Henry II continued in his pursuit of Thomas and finally had his way. Thomas, who was only a deacon at the time, was quickly ordained to the priesthood. And in a fortnight, elevated to the post of Archbishop of Canterbury.
In the insuing months, Henry II continued his labours in reducing the powers of the Catholic Church in England. Thomas quickly blocked all his efforts which frustrated Henry II beyond all tolerance. While at dinner one evening, Henry mentioned to his guests that he wished the Archbishop would meet his demise and be out of his way. A group of Henry's guards over heard this remark and took Henry seriously. They quickly left the dinner party and set out for the Cathedral at Canterbury.
While Thomas was saying his evening breviary, the soldiers surprised him at the altar in church and killed him. When the people of London had heard of the news, they were shocked that such an act would be committed by the King of England against a man of God and the Catholic Church. Thomas was very quickly considered a Martyr for the Faith and was Canonized at Rome in the year 1173 A.D..
