William of Roskilde

Priest. Court chaplain to King Canute of England and Denmark.

During a trip to Denmark, William saw a crying need for Christian missionaries, and he worked there the rest of his life.

Bishop of Roskilde, Zeeland. He decreed that a person who had shed blood unjustly could not receive the sacraments until he had done public penance. King Sweyn, who was one of the targets of this order, came to the cathedral with armed men. William stood at the door, armed only with his crozier. When the guards threatened to attack him, William offered no resistance. Sweyn asked forgiveness, and gave the church a gift of lands in token his penance.


William of Roskilde - 2 September - Missionary and Bishop.


The Collect.

O Eternal Shepherd, look favorably upon thy flock and guard it by thy continual protection: inspire all Pastors through the faithful example of Blessed William (of Roskilde), thy bishop, to be diligent in their ministry; through Jesus Christ, thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Ghost: ever one God, world without end. Amen.


The Epistle - Acts 1:1-9.


The Gospel - St. Luke 10:1-9.


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