Saint Alfred The Great

Biography

Saint Alfred The Great, also known as Alfred the Great, was the youngest of five sons of King Ethelwulf of Wessex. He was born in 849 in Wantage, Berkshire, England. Alfred is recognized as the ideal Christian king of Wessex, known for his significant contributions to the growth of the Church in England. Alfred ascended to the throne during a Danish invasion, a period of great turmoil and uncertainty for the kingdom of Wessex. Despite the challenges, he valiantly led his people in the fight against the Danes and achieved remarkable victories. Alfred's military prowess and strategic genius allowed him to defeat the Danes and effectively protect his kingdom from further invasion. However, it was not only on the battlefield that Alfred's greatness was demonstrated. He was also a devout Christian and recognized the importance of education and learning. Understanding the need for a literate clergy and a well-educated population, he established a court school. This school became a center of learning and attracted both British and foreign scholars, who were invited to work there. In addition to supporting education, Alfred personally translated several religious works into Anglo-Saxon. These translations played a crucial role in making important religious texts accessible to the people of England, thereby furthering their understanding and practice of Christianity. One notable aspect of Alfred's reign was his commitment to justice and equality. His laws made no distinction between British and Welsh subjects, marking a significant departure from the prevailing norms of the time. This inclusive approach showcased Alfred's belief in fairness and equality for all, irrespective of their cultural or ethnic backgrounds. Saint Alfred The Great passed away on 26th October 899 of natural causes. His remarkable accomplishments and contributions to the Church and society have earned him widespread admiration and reverence. Although information on his patronage is not available, his feast day is celebrated on the 26th of October. While Saint Alfred The Great has not been formally canonized by the Catholic Church, his exemplary life and impact on the growth of Christianity make him a highly respected and venerated figure.