Bishop
Saint Ignatius of Antioch, bishop of Antioch, was a disciple of Saint John the Theologian and became bishop after Saint Evodius. He was known for his apostolic zeal and established the order of sacred hymns in the church. During the persecutions of Christians under Emperor Trajan, Ignatius was slandered and summoned to the emperor, where he boldly confessed his faith in Christ.
The emperor offered him to sacrifice to the pagan gods, but the saint refused, stating that he carries Christ in his heart. Ignatius was sentenced to death and sent to Rome, where he awaited execution in the arena. On the way, he wrote letters to the churches, asking for prayers and expressing his desire to become a sacrifice for Christ.
When the saint was brought to the arena, he courageously declared that he was dying for his God. Lions were released upon him, which tore him apart, fulfilling his wish to become food for the beasts. His remains were gathered by the faithful and honorably buried outside the city. Saint Ignatius became an example of faith and courage, and his memory is honored on December 20.
