Anskar, Apostle to
the North
Anskar, a Saxon was born in 801
in what would be modern day Picardy. In 826, when King Harald of Denmark asked for missionaries,
Anskar, a Benedictine monk, was one of those who was sent out. Sadly, he was ridiculed by his peers for his
missionary fervor. Later he also led a group to Sweden. He built school, and had dealings with the
Vikings, who were a tough lot to evangelise, because they thought the breaking
of oaths to be honourable. Because of
the precariousness of the political situation, he returned to Hamburg, of which he became the first
Archbishop. He helped consecrate
Gotbert, the first Bishop of Sweden and is held to be the Apostle to the
Swedish people. We remember Anskar most
for being Apostle to the North, (Denmark,
Sweden and Iceland) and
because despite the fact he did not see the fruit of his works, he continued
his labour. May we do likewise.
Collect: Lord
Yeshua, your servant Anskar was called to Denmark
and Sweden
to proclaim the Gospel, and you gave him strength to continue despite
disparagement and deterrence from those around him. Grant to us and our clergy like steadfastness
of mind to obey your call, and trust in you for the seed planted to grow. This we ask through Yeshua haMoshiach, who
lives and reins with you and the Ruach haKodesh, one God in glory
everlasting.
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