Saint Apollonius was a learned Roman Christian of the second century, remembered as one of the early Church's apologists. Denounced for his faith during the reign of Emperor Commodus, he delivered a reasoned defense of Christianity before the Roman authorities rather than renounce Christ. He was condemned and martyred in Rome around the year 185.
Apollonius shows us that faith and reason belong together: he answered hostility not with fear but with a calm, thoughtful witness to the truth. His courage reminds us that quietly standing by what we believe, even when it costs us, is itself a form of love.
Saint Apollonius, who defended the faith with wisdom and gave your life with courage, pray for us, that we may bear witness to Christ with gentle and steadfast hearts. Amen.Enter today’s Mass → All saints →