St. Magnus of Orkney

St. Magnus of Orkney was an earl by birth, but found that his Christian values were not appreciated by the Viking culture of his birth. He wouldn't participate in raids, instead remaining on the ship and singing psalms, and when he and his cousin got into dispute over who should rule, Magnus negotiated peace, but his cousin betrayed him, coming in with an army at the arranged meeting. After Magnus prayed for the souls of his treacherous cousin and his executioners, he was martyred by being struck in the head on Easter Sunday.


Lifetime: 1080 to 1117
Region: Norway
Patronages: Orkney, Vikings
Iconograpy: Axe; Viking attire
Feast Day: April 16

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