April 18

St. Apollonius the Apologist

When they lived: St. Apollonius the Apologist is believed to have lived during the late 2nd century to the early 3rd century, specifically around the years 160 to 240 AD.

Where they lived: St. Apollonius lived primarily in Athens, Greece, during a time when it was a hub of intellectual and philosophical activity.

Notable world events during the time of their life:

Antonine Plague (165-180 AD): The Antonine Plague, possibly caused by either smallpox or measles, spread across the Roman Empire, causing significant death and social disruption.
Decian Persecution (249-251 AD): During this period, the Roman Emperor Decius initiated a widespread persecution of Christians.
Crisis of the Third Century (235-284 AD): The Roman Empire faced a series of political, military, and economic crises during this time.
Invention of the Steam Engine (1st century AD): The invention of the aeolipile, an early steam engine, by the engineer Hero of Alexandria.
Life of Origen (185-254 AD): Origen of Alexandria, a prominent early Christian theologian, lived during a similar timeframe as St. Apollonius.

Patronage: St. Apollonius the Apologist is considered a patron saint of intellectuals, philosophers, and scholars.

Early Life

There are various sources that document Saint Apollonius’ life. These sources, however, do not provide much detail about the great Saint.

Saint Apollonius was born in Rome on an unknown date. What is for sure is that he was born sometime in the 2nd century.

There is no document detailing the Saint’s early life. There is no known record about his parents, siblings, or where he gained an early formal record.

Saint Apollonius was a hardworking Roman citizen. He was well-learned and well-spoken. He was not only intelligent, but he was also a devout Christian.

He was said to be extremely talented and well-educated on subjects like philosophy.

Saint Apollonius was a senator. He controlled lands and slaves that inhabited the lands. He was a distinguished member of Roman society.

Saint Apollonius was so deeply invested in Religion that he took a special liking to Jewish writings about the Church. He spent time gathering extensive knowledge about the religion.

Dedication and Devotion

Impressed by the writings and in awe of God, he allowed himself to be baptized. He was said to have spent his time praying or meditating on the writings and the scripture.

In those times, the early Church was being persecuted. The persecutions were, however, sanctioned by Emperor Commodus out of respect for his mistress, Empress Marcia. Empress Marcia was a devout Christian.

The Christians experienced peace for some time as trouble quieted, but it was only for a while. Soon, these persecutions started again.

One day, One of Saint Apollonius’ slaves accused him of practicing Christianity. After this was brought to the attention of the authorities, the Praetorian Prefect, Sextus Tigidius Perennis, ordered the arrest of Apollonius.

The slave who had made the accusation was also arrested. As the law had commanded, the slave was put to death for being an informant. He had his legs broken before he was executed.

Legacy

Saint Apollonius was not only investigated but also called to hearings. In these hearings, he was allowed to speak freely and convince the people that he was not wrong for being a Christian.

Saint Apollonius was offered freedom on the basis that he would denounce Christianity. A man of Faith, he refused and instead chose to debate his way to freedom, much to the chagrin of his friends.

Saint Apollonius acted as he deserved. An eloquent speaker that he was, he spoke at length on the advantages of his faith. He offered facts to support his beliefs.

An avid reader, he showed the authorities that pagan worship was wrong. He claimed the scriptures showed what true religion was.

Despite his many facts, the court found Saint Apollonius guilty of Christianity. He was condemned to death.

Death and Canonization

Saint Apollonius was beheaded around the year 186. He died as a martyr for the sake of religion.

Although he was condemned, years later, his arguments and apologies were found to be very important to the Church.

Saint Apollonius was not recognized as a Saint and Martyr until the Middle Ages. He was canonized Pre-Congregation.

Saint Apollonius is celebrated by the Roman Catholic Church on the 18th of April and on the 23rd of July by the Eastern Orthodox Church.

5 Interesting Facts About St. Apollonius

Did you know that Saint Apollonius is the patron Saint of
Did you know that in some accounts, Saint Apollonius had legs?
crushed before he was executed?
Did you know that Saint Apollonius was confused for other saints?
like Apollo of Alexandria and The Apollonius in literary works?
Did you know that Saint Apollonius directly debated Sextus Tigidius?
Perennis’ view of religion in the court He was not afraid to talk.
about his faith even in the face of enemies and death.
Did you know that Saint Apollonius was investigated by the Prefect?
Perennius and a group of senators? On both accounts, there was
Nothing bad was found against him.

Prayers to St. Apollonius

Lord God, you call us to live a life of holiness and sanctity. Through the example of St. Apollonius, we may be strengthened to proclaim our faith to those who do not know it. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Source:[https://www.google.com/amp/s/vitaesanctorum.wordpress.com/2013/04/18/st-apollonius-the-apologist/amp/]{.ul}