St. Ignatius of Antioch, Bishop and Martyr


Ignatius of Antioch, surnamed Theophorus, meaning "God-Bearer" in Greek, was probably a convert and disciple of St. John the Evanagelist. The Apostles Peter and Paul, who planted the faith in Antioch, left directions that Ignatius should succeed Evodius as bishop of that city.

Ignatius served as bishop of Antioch for forty years, proving himself an exemplary pastor. On the journey to Rome he wrote seven different letters to seven different churches. In these he discussed Christ, the structure of the Church, and the Christian life. He was condemned to death by being thrown to wild animals and was martyred in Rome in 107.

"The goals of the earth and the kingdoms of this world shall profit me nothing. It is better for me to die for the sake of Jesus Christ than to reign over the ends of the earth."

~ St. Ignatius of Antioch, letter to the Romans
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