Ignatius of Antioch

Date of Birth: 35 AD

Zodiac Sign: Unknown

Date of Death: 107 AD

Biography

Ignatius of Antioch, also known as Ignatius Theophorus, was an early Christian writer and bishop of Antioch. He is considered one of the Apostolic Fathers, a group of early Christian writers who are believed to have personally known some of the Twelve Apostles. Ignatius was born around the year 35 AD in Syria, during the Roman Empire. He was a disciple of the Apostle John and eventually became the Bishop of Antioch, succeeding Saint Peter and Evodius in this role. Ignatius is well-known for his letters, which he wrote during his journey to Rome, where he was to face martyrdom. These letters provide valuable insight into the early Christian theology, church organization, and the sacraments. Ignatius emphasized the importance of unity within the church and the role of bishops in maintaining this unity. His letters are considered some of the most important documents of early Christianity. In 107 AD, during the reign of Emperor Trajan, Ignatius was arrested and taken to Rome for execution. He was martyred by being thrown to wild beasts in the Colosseum. His feast day is celebrated on October 17 by the Roman Catholic Church and on December 20 by the Eastern Orthodox Church.

5 Interesting Facts about Ignatius of Antioch

1. Ignatius is believed to have been the first to use the term “Catholic Church” in his letters.

2. He wrote seven epistles that are considered crucial to the study of early Christian theology.

3. Ignatius was a strong advocate for the hierarchical structure of the Church, emphasizing the authority of bishops.

4. He was arrested and transported to Rome under guard, during which he wrote his famous letters to various Christian communities.

5. His remains were later transferred to the Basilica of San Clemente in Rome.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Ignatius of Antioch

1. “Where the bishop is present, there let the congregation gather, just as where Jesus Christ is, there is the Catholic Church.”

2. “I am God’s wheat, and I shall be ground by the teeth of beasts, that I may become the pure bread of Christ.”

3. “Do not have Jesus Christ on your lips, and the world in your heart.”

4. “It is right, therefore, that we should not just be called Christians, but that we should actually be Christians.”

5. “My love has been crucified, and there is no fire in me desiring to be fed, but there is water living and speaking in me, saying from within me, ‘Come to the Father.’”