TOPICS:

Saint Polycarp

Jun 30, 2015 / Written by: America Needs Fatima

Feast February 23

Polycarp, a holy man and bishop of Smyrna, was part of the group of early bishops.

When heresy arose in Asia, violence toward Catholics arose with it, and Polycarp was persuaded by his friends to go into hiding.

Image: St. Polycarp

Eventually Polycarp was found and arrested. When his persecutors arrived at his hideout, he went to them and served them a meal, asking for a short time to pray before being taken away.

Polycarp was sent to trial, where his captors tempted him with freedom and tried to convince him to denounced Our Lord.

“Fourscore and six years I have served Him and He hath done me no wrong,” he said, “how then can I blaspheme my King and my Savior?”

Soon after this, in the year 155, Polycarp was burnt at the stake – though there was no odor of burning flesh: instead a smell of incense was in the air.

When the fire seemed to do him no harm, a spear was thrust into his side, killing him.

A dove flew out of the wound, and Polycarp’s blood quenched the fire, causing part of his body to remain intact.

However, his remains were later burned to ash because the heretics feared other Catholics would revere the body as a relic.

Christmas novenaDear Reader,

This year, it is more crucial than ever that we turn to prayer and intercession to increase devotion to Our Lady across our nation. That’s why you’re invited to join us in the Three Hail Marys Pledge, a powerful devotion that can bring personal spiritual benefits and national transformation.

By reciting three Hail Marys daily, you honor the Immaculate Heart of Mary and seek her intercession for the conversion of sinners, the salvation of souls and the restoration of America's moral fabric. This ancient devotion, revealed to Saint Mechtilde, promises spiritual benefits including protection from mortal sin and the assurance of a good death.

Your daily prayers will contribute to an increase in devotion to Our Lady, the conversion of sinners and the moral renewal of our country. Let us commit to this powerful devotion and seek the guidance and protection of Our Lady.

Sign the Three Hail Marys Pledge »