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Introduction of Christianity 43
The Emperor at that time was the son of Charlemagne,
named Louis the Mild. He wished to work for the
spread of the gospel and to free his coasts from devas-
tation. He asked Ansgar if he would be willing to go
to the Northland and preach the gospel to the wild
Danes. Such a course was then regarded as leading
to certain death. But Ansgar was filled with unspeak-
able joy.
Ansgar As a Missionary. For several years he
preached the gospel of peace to these men of war.
There were many who put on the white garment, and
were baptized in the Name of the only true God.
In accordance with the Emperor’s wish, Ansgar set
out for Sweden, about 830 A.D., to preach the gospel
there too. But off the coast of Sweden his vessel was
attacked by vikings. With great difficulty he succeeded
in escaping with his life. But all the gifts sent by the
Emperor to the Swedish king to secure his favor, and
all the precious books which he had taken along for
the public services, were lost.
This was Ansgar’s first contact with the people he
wished to save from paganism. But Ansgar pushed
forward, and after many hardships reached the large
city of Birka on Bjorko (Birch Island) in Lake Malar,
then Sweden’s chief city. The place, however, was
destroyed nine centuries ago. In Birka was life and
activity. In its fine harbor were merchant vessels not
only from different parts of Sweden, but also from
Norway, Denmark, Germany and Russia all engaged
in a busy traffic.
But the city might also expect other than friendly
visits. This was indicated by the wall surrounding the
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