By Ian Wilson
Born in 954 in Somerset, England, Aelfheah had everything – a noble family, wealth, food, drink, servants – yet none of those things had affected him so much as knowing and drawing nearer to God. Much to his family’s dismay, Aelfheah entered the monastery, where he was respected for his austerity and extreme piety. He gave away all of his possessions, living simply and fasting frequently.
Aelfheah’s self-discipline caught the attention of his superiors, who prevailed upon him to take the role of abbot at the newly formed community in Bath. Despite his youth, Aelfheah was further promoted to the rank of Bishop of Winchester in 984, a role which he served admirably. It was said at that time that through Aelfheah’s generosity, there were no beggars in all the diocese.
It was during his time as Bishop of Winchester that Aelfheah encountered King Olaf I of Norway, a Viking invader who had caused much destruction in England. Aelfheah persuaded Olaf to repent and believe the Gospel, and confirmed him into the Christian faith. Olaf swore never to invade England again, an oath which he kept.
Aelfheah’s fame spread throughout the land. In the year 1006, he was elevated further to Archbishop of Canterbury, the most prestigious and powerful position in the English church. For six years, Aelfheah served with distinction in this position, despite continued raids by Danish Vikings. Then in 1011, his ministry came to an abrupt end when a raiding party captured him and held him for ransom.
For many months, Aelfheah was imprisoned by the Vikings, though he stubbornly refused to comply with any of their demands, instructing his people to refuse to pay ransom, lest the poor of England be deprived. Eventually the Vikings lost patience with their prisoner, pelting him with cattle bones, before striking him in the head with an axe. Aelfheah died a martyr on April 19th, 1012.
May we all learn to imitate his faith, perseverance and piety.
LogoSophia Magazine 