Saint Henry of Sweden

January 19, we celebrate the feast of Saint Henry of Sweden (also known as Saint Henrik, or Saint Henry of Uppsala, died 1156), bishop of Sweden, missionary to Finland, and Martyr of the Church.

While never formally canonized, Saint Henry remains a central figure in the Scandinavian Catholic Church, given his importance in the spread of the faith throughout the region.Henry was born in England, but moved to Rome where he was ordained a priest.

While working in Rome, he was chosen to accompany the Papal Legate, Nicholas Breakspear (who later became Pope Adrian IV) to Sweden. Henry was consecrated bishop of Uppsala, Sweden at the council of Linköping in 1152 and dedicated himself to the evangelization of Norway and Sweden.

Three years later, King Saint Eric of Sweden led a crusade into Finland, as a result of Finnish pirates marauding throughout the country. Saint Henry accompanied him on this apostolic mission, baptizing the defeated Fins in the spring of Kuppis near Abo.

Both King Eric and Saint Henry did all they could to offer peace and the Christian faith to the people of Finland, but upon their refusal, defeated them soundly in battle. King Eric returned to Sweden, but Henry remained behind, working for the conversion of more of the local people.

To accomplish this goal, Henry had a church built at Nousis, which became the heart of the Finnish Catholic Church. It was a difficult time for Saint Henry, as the locals were less than accepting of his presence, given the arrival of the Swedish missionary accompanied by a great army. Over time, he worked to make his presence more acceptable, modeling the Christian faith, and delivering the sacraments.

Henry met a violent death on account of his love of God. A converted Finnish soldier named Lalli had murdered a Swedish soldier. After careful consideration of the facts and assiduous prayer, Henry imposed the penalty of excommunication on the murderer.

Lalli became enraged and slew the saintly bishop with an ax. Henry was buried at Nousis, and honored as a martyr immediately after his death, as miracles were reported at his tomb. St. Henry is an important figure in the medieval history of Finland and there are a plethora of colorful poems and legends written about his life and is the patron saint of Finland.

Prayer

Grant, we pray, almighty God, that we may follow with due devotion the faith of blessed Henry, who, for spreading the faith, merited the crown of martyrdom.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Saint Henry of Sweden, pray for us.