LOLSaints

Pie Jesu, Domine... Continuing the theme of Monty Python-inspired LOLs...

It may look like he's got a Holy Hand Grenade, but St. Olaf II of Norway (995-1030) fought for the independence of his kingdom. In his youth he was a raider, and even attacked England. During one of these attacks, he was exposed to the Christian faith, and as a result, at 15, he was baptized.

Olaf's life brought him back into temporal power, however, as he fought to unite Norway. In order to do so, he sought the aid of Christian missionaries. Olaf's battles were twofold: first, against the warring clans, and second, against the Pagan entrenchment.

Records are mixed on how successful Olaf's political career was; some sources argue that he was effectively a vassal to a larger king, while others have him as the great hero of Norway. Similarly, the sources disagree on Olaf's character, and whether or not his life was particularly holy, but the presence of miracles at his tomb attests to holiness. What is beyond dispute is that Olaf's work paved the way for Christianity to enter into Norway and drive out the old gods. In whatever place we end up, God is there, opening paths for the Holy Gospel to go forth... even if a killer rabbit is in the way.