Cenwalh was the ruler of Wessex from 643 to 672, except for a brief period (645 - 648) when he was driven out of his realm by Penda of Mercia. During this period, he sought refuge with Anna of East Anglia, who convinced him to be baptised and become a Christian. As king of Wessex, Cenwalh encouraged Saint Birinus to establish churches throughout his kingdom.
