The Death Of Henry Viii
THE DEATH OF HENRY VIII
After a long illness, toward the end of January 1547, it became obvious to King Henry’s doctors that he was dying. Although they felt he should know the state of his health, no one was willing to risk telling him. The task fell on one Master Denny, who boldly told Henry that he was dying and urged him to prepare for it by calling on God in Christ for grace and mercy.
The king listened to Denny and considered his sins, which he regretted, yet concluded that “the mercy of Christ is able to pardon me all my sins, even if they were worse than they are.”
Glad to hear Henry thinking this way, Denny asked if he would like to speak to anyone. Henry replied that he would like to see Dr. Cranmer, but by the time Cranmer arrived, Henry was unable to speak and barely conscious. He was able to reach out and grasp Cranmer’s hand, however. Cranmer urged the king to put his trust in Christ and call on His mercy, and Henry pressed Cranmer’s hand as a sign that he was doing so and then died. Henry had ruled for thirty-seven years and nine months, leaving behind three children—Edward, Mary, and Elizabeth.