Commemoration King Olaf of Norway

Tuesday, July 29

Commemoration

Olaf, King of Norway, Martyr, d. 1030

Reflection

Olaf, after whom St. Olaf College is named, learned to do battle in Viking raids led by his foster father King Sigurd Syr of Ringerike (his biological father died before Olaf was born). While on an expedition to France and Spain, legend has it that Olaf had a vision in which a powerful figure announced, “. . . you shall be known as the eternal king of Norway.” He returned to Norway in 1015 after his confirmation in Christianity with the intention of establishing Christianity throughout Norway, ironically through violence. After gathering support and through many battles, he was recognized as king in 1019 and in the next years was determined to uproot the last vestiges of paganism. Olaf gave the church of Norway a code of laws in the Norwegian language and revised the civil laws of the nation, known as the “Laws of St. Olaf,” which he administered impartially, to the anger of the aristocracy. In 1028 powerful King Knut of Denmark and Britain joined forces with the king of Sweden to attack Olaf, who fled to Russia. He returned from exile in 1030 and attempted to regain his kingdom, but he was killed in the battle of Stiklestad, north of Trondheim, on July 29. The stunning Gothic cathedral of Nidaros in Trondheim is built over his burial site.

Prayer

Gracious God, You raised up your servant, Olaf, to bring Christianity to Norway and to establish and administer laws with impartiality. Embolden all leaders with the same courage and impartiality, as we acknowledge that you are Judge of all. In Jesus’ name. Amen.