Feast Day: July 23
Title: Bishop of Ravenna, Martyr for the Faith
Century: 1st Century
Early Life and Mission
St. Apollinaris is revered as one of the first bishops appointed by St. Peter himself, according to ancient tradition. He was born in Antioch and, filled with apostolic zeal, was chosen by the Prince of the Apostles to preach the Gospel in Italy, particularly in the city of Ravenna. This places him among the apostolic men—those taught directly by the Apostles or their immediate successors.
He arrived in Ravenna during the reign of Emperor Claudius (AD 41–54), when the Roman world was still hostile to the Christian faith. The pagan city was steeped in idolatry and imperial cults, but St. Apollinaris, moved by divine charity, began fearlessly proclaiming the truth of the Gospel.
Bishop of Ravenna
St. Apollinaris quickly gained a following due to his holy life, miracles, and fearless preaching. He was consecrated as the first bishop of Ravenna, making him a true apostolic father of the Church in that region. His episcopacy was marked by intense persecution and ceaseless missionary labor.
Many miracles are attributed to him: healing the sick, casting out demons, and converting hardened pagans, including Roman officials. His boldness in preaching brought him before the Roman authorities on numerous occasions. When commanded to renounce Christ and worship the Roman gods, he refused without hesitation.
Persecution and Martyrdom
St. Apollinaris suffered greatly for the Faith. He was beaten, tortured, and exiled more than once, yet he always returned to his flock, undeterred by suffering. On one occasion, his enemies nearly killed him with blows; another time, he was scourged and forced to walk on burning coals. Tradition holds that he endured four major persecutions during his episcopate.
Ultimately, around the year AD 79, he was savagely beaten by a mob stirred up by pagan priests and succumbed to his injuries a few days later. He died as he had lived—faithful unto death, a true martyr, which means “witness.” His blood sealed the faith of the Church in Ravenna.
Legacy and Veneration
St. Apollinaris is venerated as the founder of the Church in Ravenna and one of the great early missionary bishops of Italy. The Basilica of Sant’Apollinare in Classe, near Ravenna, was built in the 6th century and stands as a testament to his enduring legacy. It houses his relics and is adorned with splendid mosaics depicting his life and sanctity.
His cult spread throughout both the East and the West, and he is commemorated in the traditional Roman Martyrology on July 23.
Spiritual Lessons from St. Apollinaris
Apostolic Zeal: Like the Apostles, St. Apollinaris preached in hostile lands with unwavering courage. His life reminds us that the Church grows through suffering and fidelity.
Faithfulness in Persecution: His repeated endurance of torture and exile teaches steadfastness in the face of trials.
Pastoral Charity: As bishop, he laid down his life for his sheep, modeling the Good Shepherd.
Prayer
O God, who didst grant unto Thy blessed Martyr and Bishop Apollinaris strength to lay down his life for the truth of Thy holy Name, grant us, we beseech Thee, through his intercession, to bear all adversities courageously for Thy love and to walk faithfully in the way of Thy commandments. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.