Showing results by author "Ignatius of Antioch" in All Categories

The Apostolic Fathers are the Christian writers from the first and second centuries who are thought to have been disciples of the Apostles or to have been so directly influenced by the Apostles that their writings are considered echoes of genuine Apostolic teaching. Their writings form a link of tradition that binds these writings to those of the New Testament. Chief among the apostolic fathers are the three first-century Bishops: St. Clement of Rome, St. Ignatius of Antioch, and St. Polycarp of Smyrna, who were disciples of St. Peter and St. John.

Ignatius of Antioch, on his journey toward martyrdom, composed powerful letters to various churches—including the Ephesians, Magnesians, Trallians, Romans, Philadelphians, and Smyrnaeans—along with a poignant message to Polycarp. As a staunch advocate for the Episcopal model of church governance, which emerged in the late first or early second century, Ignatius passionately defended his beliefs. Eager to emulate the sacrifice of his Savior, he famously declared to the Roman church I am Gods wheat, and I am ground by the teeth of wild beasts that I may be found pure bread [of Christ]. (...