Quick Facts
- Born February 15, 1133 in Fljótshlið, Iceland
- Educated at Oddi, 1142-1148
- Ordained Deacon, 1148
- Ordained Priest, 1151
- Studied in France and England, 1153-1159
- Returned to Iceland (Pastor of Kirkjubær at Siða), 1162-1167
- Canon Regular of St. Augustine and Abbot of Þykkvibær monastery, 1168-1174
- Elected Sixth Bishop of Skálholt, 1174
- Died December 23, 1193 in Skálholt
- Declared "Patron Saint of The Icelandic People" by Alþing (Icelandic National Assembly), 1198
- Formally canonized by St. Pope John Paul II, January 14, 1984
Feast Dates
December 23: Thorlaksmessa holiday in Iceland
July 20: Memorial, Translation of Relics/local canonization, 1198
Patron Saint of Autism
In recent years, Saint Thorlak has gained notice for both having autistic-like traits and for demonstrably interceding for people on the autism spectrum worldwide. He is considered by many as Patron Saint for Autistic People, Autistic Clergy and Autistic Vocations, with growing testimony and devotion across several continents.
Pastoral Style
Although history rightly acclaims Saint Thorlak as a "reformer of the Church," he was not a fiery preacher or a harsh disciplinarian. He was much more concerned with the spiritual needs in his diocese than the political ramifications of his reforms. He introduced these initiatives only after praying, fasting, and modeling the love through which God desires to draw all people to Himself. Schooled in the writings of Hugh of St. Victor, and far ahead of his time, Thorlak lived and championed the pastoral approach of merciful love. He was:
- Quiet, soft-spoken
- Gentle toward penitents
- Careful in considering disputes
- Contemplative, reflective, thoughtful
- Extremely knowledgeable in academic areas
- Deeply caring toward the marginalized
- Reluctant to engage in politics
- Well-ordered
- Easily approachable
- Predictable, reliable
