Thorlak Thorhallsson: The Saint of Iceland скачать в хорошем качестве

Thorlak Thorhallsson: The Saint of Iceland

Subscribe to Christian saints Channel https://bit.ly/Christian-Saints Thorlak Thorhallsson: The Saint of Iceland Once upon a time, in the mystical land of Iceland, a remarkable story began to unfold. It was the year 1133 when Thorlak Thorhallsson, a beacon of faith and virtue, was born. This was a pivotal period for Iceland, as it was still emerging from its pagan roots, embroiled in a national struggle between the old ways and the new faith brought by German and Norwegian missionaries. The young Thorlak's journey towards sainthood began in the modest home of his parents, who, though struggling as farmers, recognized his innate talents. They ensured he received extensive religious instruction from a local priest, setting the stage for a remarkable destiny. Thorlak's gifts didn't go unnoticed, for he was ordained as a deacon before the tender age of 15 and became a priest at just 18. However, his path diverged when he left Iceland to study theology in France and possibly England. It was there that he embraced the monastic rule of St. Augustine, a path of selfless devotion that bound him to a life of celibacy and communal living without personal possessions. This newfound dedication to the monastic life led him to resist societal pressures, even when encouraged to marry a wealthy widow. Instead, he founded a monastery in accordance with the Augustinian rule, a place of deep prayer and scholarly study. A decade later, the Norwegian Archbishop Augustine Erlendsson recognized Thorlak's unwavering commitment to the ancient Augustinian rule and called on him to become the bishop of Skalholt. Though Thorlak was deeply attached to his monastic way of life, he acknowledged the pressing need for reform and guidance among the clergy. As a bishop, Thorlak tirelessly worked to implement the reforms initiated by Pope Gregory VII, advocating for the strict discipline of clerical celibacy and the independence of the Church from secular authority. He also sought to improve public morality, even daring to confront the most powerful chieftain in Iceland, who had an extramarital affair with the bishop's sister. Throughout his time as bishop, Thorlak longed to return to the simplicity of monastic life, a refuge from the complexities and challenges of his ecclesiastical duties. But destiny had other plans. On December 23, 1193, St. Thorlak of Iceland passed away, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering faith, reform, and moral rectitude. He had been a guiding light in a nation's turbulent journey towards Christianity. St. Thorlak became Iceland's most beloved native saint during its Catholic era, with over 50 churches dedicated to his memory. But even as the winds of change swept through Iceland, and it officially became Lutheran during the 16th century, his memory endured. Today, St. Thorlak's former diocese of Skalholt remains a testament to his enduring influence, now part of the Diocese of Reykjavik. The Catholic Church's presence may have diminished in Iceland, but the celebration of St. Thorlak's feast on December 23 continues as a cherished national tradition. Icelanders come together on this day, the final day of preparation before Christmas, to celebrate his memory, and they share in the age-old custom of gathering to enjoy cured fish, a reminder of their beloved saint's enduring spirit. In the heart of Iceland, the story of St. Thorlak Thorhallsson remains an indelible part of its history, a tale of unwavering faith, reform, and the enduring power of a single individual to shape the course of a nation. I recommend subscribing to the inspirational saints' channel to receive daily blessings and wisdom from the lives of saints. Let's unite in sending blessings through the comments and sharing these uplifting videos on social networks to spread their divine messages far and wide. 🙏✨ #SaintsInspire #StThorlak #DailyBlessings