Commemoration
Erik, King of Sweden, Martyr, 1160
Reflection
King Erik of Sweden
is known for his crusades to spread Christianity in Sweden
and into Finland.
He was accompanied into Finland
by Henry of Uppsala, who founded the Church in that country. Erik was known as
a good man, who helped the poor, the sick, and the infirm.
His notable death occurred during Mass in the church of
Old-Uppsala on May 18, 1160 or 1161. Despite having heard that a hostile pagan
Danish prince, reinforced by rebels against Erik, was threatening, Erik
insisted on continuing with the worship: “Let us at least finish the sacrifice;
the rest of the feast I shall keep elsewhere.” As he left the church, he was
overcome and beheaded by the conspirators.
His remains are in the cathedral at Uppsala. Erik was honored as the ancestor of
a line of Swedish kings and came to be recognized as the principal patron of Sweden.
Prayer
Gracious God, Thank you for the life of King Erik and for
his concern for the poor, the sick, and the infirm. Inspire us by his example
to work selflessly for justice and for the good of all people. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
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