Dirk Willems

From Freepedia

Image:Dirk.willems.rescue.ncs.jpg Dirk Willems (??-1569) was an martyred Anabaptist who is most famous for his successful escape and subsequent reimprisonment after rescuing his pursuer, who had fallen through thin ice while chasing him. Willems was born in Asperen, Netherlands, and was rebatized as a young man. This action, plus his continued devotion to his new faith and the rebatism of several other people in his home, led to his condemnation by the church of Holland. After his harrowing escape and recapture, he was burned at the stake near his hometown on May 16, 1569. Today, he is one of the most celebrated anabaptist martyrs, and a historical drama, Dirk's Exodus, written by James C. Juhnke, is based on his life.