June 28
Irenaeus, bishop and martyr (130–202)
martyr bishop
He was born around the year 130 and was educated in Smyrna; He was a disciple of Saint Polycarp, bishop of that city.
Biography
In the year 177 he was a priest in Lyon (France), and shortly afterward he occupied the episcopal see of that city. He wrote in defense of the Catholic faith against the errors of the Gnostics. Gnosticism tended to reduce revealed religion to a theosophy, or intuitive knowledge of God and divine things. He also admitted the duality and even the multiplicity of the principles of good and evil. The Apostles and holy Fathers, mainly Saint Irenaeus, energetically combated Gnostic ideas that could easily confuse poorly educated Christians. Irineo, showing off the meaning of his name, is gentle and pacifying. If there is one thing we should highlight about this holy Bishop, it would be fidelity to the faith received. He has a high opinion of the Church of Rome: "THE GREATEST, THE OLDEST, KNOWN BY EVERYONE, FOUNDED BY THE GLORIOUS APOSTLES PETER AND PAUL." He wrote several treatises to defend the faith against the reigning heresies. Through them you can appreciate the fire of love for God and the truth that filled his soul. He received the palm of martyrdom, it is said, around the year 200.
Practical advice
With the desire to sanctify everyday life, support those who feel alone or intimidated by putting the result in God's hands.