13th century
Feast: April 25
A Danish king who was murdered while praying at Mass by political enemies.
Eric IV of Denmark (1216-1250) was King of Denmark who tried to strengthen royal authority and promote justice. He worked to limit the power of nobles and protect the rights of common people, which made him many enemies among the aristocracy. While attending Mass on August 10, 1250, he was murdered by conspirators led by his brother Abel. He died while praying, which led to his veneration as a martyr. His death represented the conflict between Christian kingship and political ambition.