Memorial of Saint
Ignatius of Antioch, bishop and martyr
(Galatians 5:18-25; Luke 11:42-46)
The letters of St. Ignatius of Antioch come as a ray of
sun shining through a miry fog. The New
Testament leaves the episcopacy in a murky state. They detail in a limited way the
qualifications for the office of bishop but say little about his
functions. St. Ignatius, who lived at
the end of New Testament times, fills in the lacunae.
Ignatius clearly distinguishes the duties of bishop,
priest, and deacon. He leaves no doubt
as to who is in charge. But he has
favorable words for all the ordained. He
compares the bishop with God, the Father.
For this reason he is considered the originator of the “monarchial
bishop.” He sees the priests’ role as
like that of the Holy Spirit who is found sanctifying the people in all places
and ways. Deacons in Ignatius’ view are
quite honored. They are like Christ, the
Savior, doing good to all whom they meet.
As much as a theologian, Ignatius is renowned as a
spiritual writer. His letters can turn
deeply personal. He reflects on his
upcoming execution as an opportunity to join Christ in suffering and
death. In one memorable passage he tells
Roman Christians not to interfere with his being sent to the lions. Why? He wrote, “I am the wheat of God and am
ground by the teeth of the wild beasts, that I may be found the pure bread of
Christ”! Saint Ignatius of Antioch was a
martyr and a bishop, a wise man and a holy man.
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