October 17

St. Ignatius of Antioch

A second-century Bishop of Antioch and disciple of St. John the Apostle who was condemned to death under Trajan and transported to Rome. His seven letters written en route are among the most important documents in early Christian history, containing the earliest use of the word "Catholic" to describe the Church.

Why it matters for your parish: Ignatius coined the word "Catholic" and wrote some of the earliest descriptions of the Eucharist and episcopal structure outside the New Testament. His letters are a direct window into the apostolic Church.

Graphics for this saint are coming soon.