Alfred The Great Was Deeply Religious

One of the most interesting facts about Alfred the Great is that he was deeply religious. Alfred's religiosity was one of his best-known qualities. Alfred was very committed to protecting the Church throughout his life and would pardon heathen invaders if they became Christians. He claims to have received the right to govern after seeing the pope in Rome when he was four years old. Alfred Guthrum, a Viking commander, was converted to Christianity under Alfred's direction. He rose to power in England as a result of his defense of his country against the Viking invasion.

The historical accounts state that the Pope "anointed" him as a king, although this may have been recorded with the advantage of hindsight because no one could have predicted that the kid, who had four living older siblings, would become king. Alfred established monasteries and persuaded foreign monks to join his new establishments. While Alfred did not make any significant changes to religious practice, he did work to select intelligent and pious bishops and abbots.