Day of Remembrance For Eyvind Kinrifi February 9th, 2020 Near to what could be considered the beginning on the Christian conversion of Norway, under the King, Olaf Tryggvason, there was a farmer of Noble stock who stood against the king and his attempts at conversion. Eyvind (Pronounced Ivin) Kinrifi was called to make plans against the upcoming invasion by his friend Harek of Thjotta, who had very recently returned home after himself refusing conversion to Christianity. Eyvind answered the call, and for the sake of haste he traveled with only a small retinue of men. He was well welcomed my Harek, but shortly his arrival Eyvind was ambushed. Unbeknownst to Harek, he had been followed by some of Olaf Tryggvason’s men. They forced Eyvind to Throndhjem, where Olaf attempted to convert Evyind, first with offers of land and gold, and then with threats of torture and death. Unwilling to turn him back on his faith, Eyvind was eventually killed. On the 9th of February, as we stop to remember Eyvind Kinrifi and his unwavering faith despite the consequences, take a moment to consider what in your own life is important to you. Have there ever been times in which you had to choose between keeping your faith and losing something else? A friend? Family? In these times, when we are allowed the choice, it is sometimes harder to stand strong in the face of opposition. It is sometimes easier to hide behind the idea of a pseudonym, or to keep your faith hidden from those in your life that should matter. Remember, when you think of Eyvind, what truly matters. Stand strong with and take pride in your Folk. Hail, Eyvind Kinrifi! And Hail the Asatru Folk Assembly!

Gythia Catherine Erickson Asatru Folk Assembly [email protected]