US Catholic: TODAY'S SAINT (Ignatius of Antioch)

IGNATIUS OF ANTIOCH

(ca. 50-ca. 107)
Martyr

Also known as: Theophoros, or God-Bearer

Littled is known for certain about the early life of Ignatius, who probably was born in Syria around the year 50. legend identifies him as the child Jesus set down among his disciples, as described in the bible (Matthew 18:1-6; Mark 9:36-37). Some sources say that he was a persecutor of Christians who became a convert and a disciple of St. John the Evangelist or of St. Peter or St. Paul. He called himself both a disciple and a "bearer of God" (theophoros). At about age 17, he became the second or third bishop of Antioch, Syria. He is said to have been appointed and consecrated by St. Peter after he left the deathbed of St. Evodius, the previous bishop.

Ignatius longed to give his life in martyrdom during the persecution of Christians under the Roman emperor Domitian, but did not have the opportunity. However, he received his wish when a later emperor, Trajan, visited Antioch about 107. Trajan had decreed that Christians should unite with their pagan neigghbors in the worship of the goods, under penalty of death. Ignatius went out of his way to disobey, with the predicable effect that he was taken before Trajan and sectenced to die in the Roman Coliseum.

The last months of Ignatiius's life are relativel well known, thanks to a series of pastoral letters he wrote, and to conteeemporary accounts of those who traveled with him on his last voyage tto Rome. Their ship stopped at various ports around the Mediterranean, and at each stop Ignatius was greeted by crowds of Christians. They docked for an extended stay at Smyrna where Ignatius met St. Polycarp of Smyrna, then a young maan, and received delegations from Magnesia and Tralles. Two of his firsst four letters were wwritten to the faithful in these places, a third was addressed to the Ephesians and the fourth to the Christian of Romen, whom he asked not to interfere with his martyrdom. In these letters, Ignatius became the first to use the term "the Catholic Church."

Ignatius's ship arrived in Rome on December 20, the final day of the pubblic games in the Coliseum, and he was rushed to the amphitheater. Of his imminent fate, he wrote, "I pray that they will be prompt with me. I shall entice them to eat me speedily." Legend has it that as he was offered to the lions, he called himself "the wheat of Christ," exclaiming: "May I become agreeable bread to the Lord."

After his death, the image of Jesus is said to have been found engraved on Ignatius's heart. His relics were carried back to Antioch and buried outside the gates. Late, Emperor Theodosius II had them moved to the Tychaeum (Temple of Fortune), which was converted into a Christian church under Ignatius's patronage. In 637, his relics were again translated, this time to St. Clement's in Rome, where they now rest.

Ignatius is highly venerated in the Eastern Orthordox as well as Romen Catholic Church. A Greek icon with his likeness can be seen at the Saint Isaac of Syria Skete site.

In art, Ignatius is shown looking at a crucifix, a lion at his side; standing between two lions; in chains; holding a heart with "IHS" on it; or holding a heart with "IHS" torn out by lions. He may also be depicted with the image of Jesus on his breast; holding a fierry globe; or in an arena with lions.

PRAYER

Almighty and ever-living God, You adorn the body of Your

holy Church with the wittness of Your Martyrs. Grant that the

Sufferings of St. Ignatius on this day which brought unending

glory to him may bring us perpetual protection. Amen.

Feast: October 17 (formerly February 1)

Patronage: Church in the eastern Mediterranean; throat deseases