Saint Polycarp

Saint Polycarp (c. 69–155/156) was bishop of Smyrna and a key bridge from the apostles to the next generation. As Saint Irenaeus recalls, Polycarp learned the faith from the apostles (traditionally St. John) and taught what he had received. He also wrote a pastoral Letter to the Philippians that still survives. Near the end of his life he visited Rome and met Pope Anicetus. They discussed the date of Easter yet remained in full communion—a famous early example of unity in charity. Polycarp was arrested during a local persecution and gave a fearless witness. When told to deny Christ, he replied: “For eighty-six years I have served Him… How can I blaspheme my King and Savior?” He was sentenced to be burned; when the fire did not consume him, he was put to death by the sword.