Official feasts used to be an important part of the human community. People would gather together to remember something sacred, express their faith and hope for the future, and / or just be together formally, recognizing each other as being part of a shared community. Few things express a desire for shared companionship and social intimacy more than dining together. Sadly, the gathering together for feasting is increasingly a relic of the past – at least here in the West.
It need not be so! Today we will remember the ancient feasts.
The Feast Day of St. Thorfinn of Hamar
This Feast Day celebrates Thorfinn of Hamar, a 13th century Bishop of Hamar, in Medieval Norway. Though he has become a famous saint, little is known about his life. He is known to have had conflict with a local king, Eric II of Norway, whose relationship with the Church was such that he received the nickname “Priesthater.”
Thorfinn was eventually forced to flee, where he eventually ended up in the Flemish part of what is today Belgium. The impression he made on the monks he lived with during exile played a large role in his canonization.
Thorfinn was born in Trøndelag, possibly in Trondheim, Norway, and may have been a Cistercianmonk before becoming Bishop of Hamar. Although he achieved a fair amount of fame as a saint, comparatively few details of his life are clearly known.
Thorfinn and many other bishops of the area disagreed with the sitting King Eric II of Norway regarding a number of issues, including episcopal elections. King Erik received the nickname “Priesthater” from his less than successful relations with the church.
There had been an agreement, the Tønsberg Concord (Sættargjerden in Tønsberg) signed in 1277 between King Magnus VI of Norway and Jon Raude, the Archbishop of Nidaros confirming certain privileges of the clergy, the freedom of episcopal elections and similar matters. In 1282, King Eric repudiated this agreement, and a fierce dispute between Church and state ensued. Eventually the King outlawed Archbishop Jon Raude, and his two chief supporters, Bishop Andres of Oslo and Bishop Thorfinn of Hamar. Bishop Thorfinn, after many hardships including shipwreck, made his way to the abbey of Ter Doest (Abdij Ter Doest) at Lissewege, near Bruges, in the Flemish Region of Belgium. Torfinn died there on January 8, 1285 and was buried near the altar of the abbey church. The remains of Torfinn were later reinterred at a convent in Bruges during 1687.
Walter de Muda, one of the monks at Ter Doest at the time, wrote a poem in Latin praising the character of Thorfinn. Father Walter remembered Bishop Thorfinn staying in the monastery and the impression he had made of gentle goodness combined with strength. His mild exterior covered a firm will against whatever he esteemed to be evil and ungodly. Father Walter had written the poem about him after his death and hung it up over his tomb.
In literature
St. Thorfinn appears in The Axe, the first volume of Sigrid Undset‘s The Master of Hestviken. There he is depicted as the kindly and compassionate Bishop of Hamar, who makes great efforts to help the book’s young lovers, denied the right to marry by malicious relatives.
What is a food to eat when celebrating the Feast Day of St. Thorfinn of Hamar?
If you’re celebrating a Medieval Norwegian saint and bishop, shouldn’t you try to eat something that is a traditional Norwegian dish? I think so! I looked through a lot of recipes and decided that even if fish is the *most* authentic option, I don’t have access to the type of fish that is right – particularly if I want it in a good quality. So I opted for a dish that I think is still authentic, but is perhaps a bit more obtainable at the grocery story.
Traditional Norwegian Fårikål (Lamb and Cabbage Stew)
Start by layering the lamb chunks and chopped cabbage in a large pot, alternating between the two until all ingredients are used.
Pour in enough water to just cover the layers, then add a splash of white vinegar for a subtle tang.
Scatter the black peppercorns and a pinch of salt over the top for seasoning.
Bring the pot to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and let it cook for about 2 hours, or until the lamb is fork-tender. Tip: Resist the urge to stir too often to keep the cabbage from turning mushy.
After cooking, skim off any excess fat from the surface for a cleaner flavor. Tip: Letting the stew sit for a few minutes before serving helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Check the seasoning, adding more salt if needed, but remember the dish is traditionally lightly seasoned to let the natural flavors shine. Tip: Serve with boiled potatoes on the side for a truly authentic experience.
Rich in flavor and with a melt-in-your-mouth texture, this stew is a celebration of simplicity. The lamb becomes incredibly tender, while the cabbage absorbs all the savory goodness, creating a dish that’s both rustic and refined. For a modern twist, try serving it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill.
What is a prayer to say on the Feast Day of St. Thorfinn?
Almighty Father, your humble servant Saint Thorfinn taught us to focus our attention not on accomplishments and status, but on humility and loyalty. Saint Thorfinn reminds us that you do not judge us by our accomplishments, but rather by our character and our hearts.
Saint Thorfinn may have lived a solitary life, but it was one rich in love for you Lord, and service to his fellow man. Help us emulate his example and be worthy in your eyes dear Lord, in Jesus’ Name. Amen
When is the Feast Day of St. Thorfinn of Hamar celebrted?
This feast day is celebrated annually on 8 January.
I hope that everyone who celebrates has a wonderful day!
