Alphege, an Englishman born in 954, entered a monastery in Gloucestershire as a young man and quickly fell in love with Jesus Christ. Some years later he became a church leader in Bath, and when he was 30 he was chosen by St. Dustin to become bishop of the city of Winchester. At first Alphege refused the bishopric, considering himself too young for such responsibility. But he was keen, saintly, and well liked, and Dustin persuaded him to serve.
Burdened for Winchester’s poor, Alphege soon began organizing ministries of food and provision. Presently, no beggars were reported anywhere in his diocese. In the process, however, Alphege nearly starved himself to death, becoming so thin that worshipers declared they could see through his hands when he uplifted them at Mass. They loved him all the more, and Alphege served as their pastor for 22 years.
When Aelfric, archbishop of Canterbury, died, Pope John XVIII chose Alphege as his successor. England was, at the time, in the throes of an invasion by the warring Danes, and shortly after Alphege became archbishop, Danish forces, assisted by the rebel earl, Edric, marched into Kent and attacked Canterbury. The city was trapped, and its leaders begged Alphege to escape for the good of England. The archbishop chose to remain with his encircled people.
The Danes breached the walls, burst upon the populace, and began plowing down young and old. Alphege rushed to the center of the carnage. Confronting the Danish commander, he demanded the massacre cease. Instead, he was seized, roughly handled, and thrown into a dungeon.
The historical account of Alphege’s capture and ransom demand by the Danes reveals a poignant moment of selflessness and loyalty to his country. As the Danes sought a ransom for his release, Alphege, displaying unwavering resolve, selflessly refused to be freed, recognizing the financial strain it would impose on his country. This courageous act of sacrifice, where he prioritized the welfare of his people over his own freedom, embodies the noble qualities of a true leader. Despite facing successive ransom demands and the imminent threat of harm, Alphege remained resolute in his decision, ultimately sacrificing his life in service to his nation. This tragic event serves as a testament to Alphege’s indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment to the welfare of his people, leaving an enduring legacy of selflessness and integrity.
His body was later recovered and buried in St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, then moved to Canterbury in 1023. Every year England remembers its faithful Christian martyr on April 19, feast day of St. Alphege, archbishop of Canterbury.
I know that my Savior lives, and at the end he will stand on this earth. My flesh may be destroyed, yet from this body I will see God. Yes, I will see him for myself, and I long for that moment. Job 19:25-27
Robert J. Morgan