Feast Day: February 23
Patron Saint of: Ear ailments and those persecuted for their faith

Saint Polycarp (c. 69–c. 155 AD) is venerated as one of the most significant figures of the Apostolic Fathers, a group of early Christian theologians who were direct disciples of the Apostles. Appointed bishop of Smyrna (modern-day İzmir, Turkey) by St. John the Apostle, Polycarp served as a vital bridge between the apostolic age and the developing structure of the early Church.

Life and Teachings

Polycarp was born in the late 1st century and became a disciple of St. John, who consecrated him as bishop. Known for his unwavering orthodoxy and deep pastoral care, Polycarp was a vocal opponent of early heresies such as Gnosticism and Marcionism, defending the true faith as handed down by the apostles.

He wrote a now-preserved Letter to the Philippians, where he emphasized righteousness, patience, and the importance of following Christ’s teachings. His writings were influential in the early Church and are still cited in theological discussions on apostolic succession and Church unity.

Martyrdom

Polycarp’s martyrdom is one of the earliest recorded Christian martyrdoms outside the New Testament. At the age of 86, during a time of Roman persecution under Marcus Aurelius, Polycarp was arrested for refusing to deny Christ and worship the emperor.

When asked to renounce his faith, he famously declared:

“Eighty-six years I have served Him, and He has done me no wrong. How can I blaspheme my King and my Savior?”

He was sentenced to be burned alive, but, according to the account in the Martyrdom of Polycarp, the flames miraculously formed a protective arch around him, and he was eventually executed by the sword.

Legacy

The Church Fathers, especially St. Irenaeus who was Polycarp’s disciple, regarded him as a faithful transmitter of apostolic doctrine. His steadfastness in faith, dedication to truth, and martyrdom became a source of inspiration for Christians facing persecution.

Pope Benedict XVI once referenced Polycarp in his catechesis on the Fathers of the Church, calling him “a precious link between the Apostles and the Church of later times.”

One of the most popular prayer of St. Polycarp is;

O Lord God Almighty, the Father of your beloved and blessed Son Jesus Christ, by whom we have received the knowledge of You, the God of angels and powers, and of every creature, and of the whole race of the righteous who live before you, I give You thanks that You have counted me, worthy of this day and this hour, that I should have a part in the number of Your martyrs, in the cup of your Christ, to the resurrection of eternal life, both of soul and body, through the incorruption [imparted] by the Holy Ghost. Among whom may I be accepted this day before You as a fat and acceptable sacrifice, according as You, the ever-truthful God, have foreordained, have revealed beforehand to me, and now have fulfilled. Wherefore also I praise You for all things, I bless You, I glorify You, along with the everlasting and heavenly Jesus Christ, Your beloved Son, with whom, to You, and the Holy Ghost, be glory both now and to all coming ages. Amen.