Today we celebrate the feast of Saint Polycarp, a bishop and martyr who lived in the second century. He was a disciple of Saint John the Apostle and was known for his unwavering faith and dedication to the Gospel. Saint Polycarp was appointed bishop of Smyrna and led his community with humility, compassion, and wisdom. He was a model of Christian virtue, known for his charity and devotion to prayer. Saint Polycarp is known as one of the three Apostolic Fathers of the Church. This is because he was a disciple of one of the Twelve Disciples and because some of his writings remain intact today.
During the persecution of Christians by Roman authorities, Saint Polycarp was arrested and brought before an arena filled with spectators. There he was called to reject Christianity; however he refused and bravely declared his allegiance to Christ. He was sentenced to be burnt to death, and to this he responded, "You threaten me with fire that burns but for a season and is soon quenched. For you are ignorant of the fire of the judgment to come, and of the eternal punishment reserved for the wicked." He remained resolute in his faith until the very end. When they lit the fire St Polycarp did not burn. It is said that a sweet aroma could be smelled as the fire surrounded him and protected him. Angered and scared by this the soldiers thrust a spear into him thus killing him. As he was stabbed, a dove emerged from his chest, and so much blood that the flames were extinguished. The mob then burnt his dead body to prevent his followers from retrieving it.
Saint Polycarp's witness of faith inspires us to follow Christ with courage and devotion, even in the face of persecution and hardship. May his example encourage us to grow in our own faith and to trust in God's love and providence. Let us pray for the grace to imitate Saint Polycarp's humility, charity, and courage, and to follow his example of fidelity to Christ. Saint Polycarp, pray for us.
Feast day: February 23
Born: AD 69
Died: AD 155 (aged 85-86)
Patron Saint of: Relief from Earaches and dysentery
