Codice prodotto: L10339
Memorial Day: June 28
When did Saint Irenaeus live: circa 135 - circa 202 AD
BIOGRAPHY:
Saint Irenaeus was born around 135 in Smyrna (modern-day Izmir, Turkey) and was a disciple of Saint Polycarp, who himself was a disciple of the Apostle John. He later moved to Lugdunum (present-day Lyon in France), where he served as a presbyter in the Greek-speaking community. During a persecution of Christians around 177, he was sent to Rome, thus avoiding the martyrdom that befell many of his community members, including Bishop Pothinus. Upon his return, he was appointed Bishop of Lyon. Irenaeus authored significant theological works, notably "Adversus haereses" (Against Heresies), in which he refuted Gnostic doctrines and emphasized the unity and originality of the Church. He died around 202, likely as a martyr during the persecution under Emperor Septimius Severus.
PATRONAGE:
Saint Irenaeus is the patron saint of the Archdiocese of Lyon.
SYMBOLISM, DEPICTION:
The symbols of Saint Irenaeus are a book, representing his theological scholarship, and a sword, indicating his martyrdom.
PATRON SAINT OF:
Irenäus, Irenäa, Irena, Irene, Irina, Irène, Irini, Ireneo, Irenio, Irenej, Iren, Eirenaios, Eirene, Eirini, Peace, Frieda, Frida, Mira, Salome, Salomé, Salomè, Salomão, Salomón, Salomone.