Faith
Alfred the Great: Faithful King Remembered
Faith Facts
- Alfred the Great, commemorated on 26 October, was an English king known for his godly leadership and biblical convictions.
- He promoted Christian learning, translated essential texts into English, and brought lasting peace through acts of mercy—including baptizing former enemies.
- Alfred’s reign protected Christian England from invaders, revived the Church, and established values still honored today.
Alfred the Great was born in AD 849 near Oxford and raised with a strong Christian faith that shaped his actions as king.
Though the youngest of five brothers, Alfred was chosen to rule after the deaths of his siblings, guided by prayer and biblical counsel.
“Many in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle likened Alfred to King David, the youngest chosen by God for leadership.”
During his rule, he courageously defended England from Viking invasions, leading his people to military and spiritual victories.
Alfred’s mercy toward the defeated Dane leader Guthrum led to Guthrum’s baptism and a groundbreaking treaty that promoted Christian brotherhood.
He built fortified towns for protection and revitalized the English Church by founding monasteries and appointing devoted Christian leaders.
Alfred valued wisdom and learning, engaging scholars to restore Christian education and translating important works such as the Ecclesiastical History and Pastoral Care into English so many could know God’s truth.
His dedication to spreading biblical principles helped establish a legacy of faith, liberty, and learning that shaped the character of England for generations.
Let us remember Alfred the Great as a model of Christian leadership, whose trust in God brought hope and renewal to his nation.