Letter 4

From: Alcuin of York, scholar and court theologian To: Higbald, Bishop of Lindisfarne Date: ~793 AD Context: Alcuin writes to Higbald, the bishop whose community had been devastated by the Lindisfarne raid, offering theological consolation and practical counsel. To the most holy Bishop Higbald of Lindisfarne, from his brother Alcuin, greetings and compassion. When I heard what had happened, my first impulse was to write to you immediately. My second impulse was to wait until I had something useful to say rather than simply adding words to your grief. I have been sitting with both impulses for several weeks and I think the time has come. I cannot console you for the specific losses — the brothers killed, the community traumatized, the sacred things desecrated. These are real losses and the consolation that comes with time is not yet available to you. What I can offer is this: the community of Lindisfarne is not defined by what happened on that day. It is defined by the centuries of prayer and learning and holiness that preceded it, by the witness of Cuthbert and Aidan and all those who gave their lives to this holy island. That witness is not undone by violence. I also want to say practically: whatever support I can provide from here — whether in terms of books from our scriptorium, recommendations for scholars to join your community, correspondence to advocate for resources on your behalf — I will provide. You do not face this alone. Write to me when you are able. Your brother in the faith, Alcuin