Dirk Willems
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Dirk Willems (?? – May 16 1569) was a 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 rebaptized as a young man. This action, plus his continued devotion to his new faith and the rebaptism 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 16 May 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.
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