Bishop
When Saint Peter came from Antioch to Rome, he began to preach the Word of God to the local people. At that time, many of them believed and got baptized as Christians, abandoning idols and the pagan gods.
The saint appointed Apollinaris as Bishop of Ravenna, granting him his blessing and entrusting him with the care of his flock. The latter carried out his duties with dedication and deep faith in God. His virtuous life and holiness were soon proved through the miracles he began to perform. Following his example, more and more people turned to Christianity. Saint Apollinaris founded a church and ordained many priests and deacons there.
When the governor Saturninus learned of his activity, he summoned him to trial. There, the saint confessed that he was a Christian and that he believed in the one and only true God. As a result, he was subjected to cruel tortures, yet he never ceased to praise and glorify the Lord. Eventually, he was sent into exile, spending several years in the region of Dalmatia.
Upon his return to Ravenna, he resumed his service to the Church. He was arrested once again and ultimately suffered a martyr’s death. His body was buried with honors, while his holy life became a model for Christians of all generations.
