Feast of San Canuto IV, Re di Danimarca

San Canuto IV, ora pro nobis

January 19th is the Feast of St. Canute IV (ca.1040-1086), King of Denmark and Martyr. A great benefactor of the Church, he gave generous gifts and built several monasteries and churches. Reasserting his claim to the throne of England, he planned an invasion in 1885; however, members of his court revolted and forced him to flee to the city of Odense, Denmark. During Mass at St. Alban’s Priory (renamed St. Canute’s Cathedral), he was slain by rebels at the foot of the altar with his brother Benedict and seventeen companions. He is the patron saint of Denmark.

In celebration, we’re posting a prayer to St. Canute IV. The accompanying photo comes courtesy of Father Eugene Carrella. The holy card is part of Father Carrella’s impressive collection of religious artifacts. Evviva San Canuto IV!

Prayer to St. Canute IV of Denmark

O God, Who, for the greater glory of Thy Church, wast pleased to adorn blessed Canute the king with the palm of martyrdom and with glorious miracles: mercifully grant that walking in the footsteps of him who followed our Lord in His sufferings, we may deserve to attain eternal joys.