The Martyrdom of St. Polycarp . . . a Lesson in Faith

The Martyrdom of St. Polycarp . . .

One   of the great things about Catholic traditions, is that we do not forget our history.

On this day (Feb. 23), the Church celebrates one of the early martyrs . . . Saint Polycarp. His feast (memorial) day is celebrated each year, but many Christians are unaware of this saint.

Polycarp is a giant in the Christian tradition. He was a disciple of the Apostle John the Evangelist. St. John himself named Polycarp the Bishop of Smyrna. He was appointed to guide and lead the Church in this city. In the Book of Revelations mentions the Church in Smyrna.  Hear more within the audio.

The Church celebrates the faith of Polycarp and his incredible dignity in which he teaches the faith.  This was precious for Polycarp. Listen to the audio which explains this in detail.

At the end of his life, Polycarp will spill his blood in defense of the faith. If they came for me, the Lord says, they will come for you. As an old man, Polycarp is living in a time when Christians are asked to burn incense and are required to refer to Caesar as lord . . . for those that do not, they will be torn apart by beasts. The martyrdoms began to happen. Polycarp knew that his time will come . . . when the Romans will demand he does the same. From the book – The Acts of the Martyrdom of Polycarp – the audio recounts how he gave his life. Hear more from this audio.

. . . a Lesson in Faith

Understand how Polycarp’s death, was modeled on what he was taught by St. John the Evangelist about the death of Jesus. Hear more about faith and this hidden lesson. Understand how Polycarp’s faith might influence our own Spiritual Life.

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