Day: July 29, 2026

The collect for today, the commemoration of William Wilberforce (1759-1833), English MP, Social Reformer, Abolitionist (source):

Let thy continual mercy, O Lord, enkindle in thy Church the never-failing gift of charity, that, following the example of thy servant William Wilberforce, we may have grace to defend the children of the poor, and maintain the cause of those who have no helper; for the sake of him who gave his life for us, thy Son our Savior Jesus Christ, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Ghost, one God, now and for ever.

The Epistle: Galatians 3:23-29
The Gospel: St. Matthew 25:31-40

Artwork: Samuel Joseph, William Wilberforce, 1840. Westminster Abbey, London.

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The collect for today, the Feast of Saint Olaf (c. 995-1030), Patron Saint of Norway (source):

Almighty God, Who didst enable Thy faithful soldier and servant Olaf to play the man and upon sea and land to endure hardness and to fight the good fight of the faith: Grant unto us whom Thou hast called to serve under Thy banner a single heart to spend and be spent for Thee, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

The Epistle: 1 St Peter 4:12-19
The Gospel: St Matthew 16:24-27

Saint Olaf of Norway, also known as Olaf II Haraldsson, was one of the most important figures in Norwegian history. Born around 995, he came from royal Viking stock and spent part of his youth as a raider and warrior across northern Europe. His life changed dramatically around 1013 during a visit to Normandy, where he encountered Christianity and was baptised in Rouen.

In 1015, Olaf returned to Norway and claimed the throne, determined to unite the country under one Christian kingdom. He worked hard to spread Christianity by building churches, supporting missionaries, and encouraging his people to adopt the new faith. He also introduced laws based on Christian principles, promoting justice and order throughout the kingdom. His religious code of 1024 marked Norway’s first national legislation. Although many local chieftains opposed his reforms, Olaf remained determined to strengthen both the monarchy and the Christian Church.

Political conflicts eventually forced Olaf into exile. In 1030, he returned to Norway in an attempt to regain his throne but was defeated and killed at the Battle of Stiklestad. Soon after his death, many people believed that miracles occurred at his burial site. These reports led to his canonization in 1031, and he was honored as Saint Olaf, patron saint of Norway.

Artwork: Unknown sculptor, Saint Olaf, c. 1470. Museum für Kunst und Kulturgeschichte de Hansestadt (St. Anne’s Museum), Lübeck, Germany.

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