October 17th: Memorial of Saint Ignatius of Antioch, Bishop and Martyr
Gospel text Jn 12:24-26
Jesus said to his disciples: “Amen, amen, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat; but if it dies, it produces much fruit."
Gospel's Commentary
Today we celebrate St Ignatius, who was the third Bishop of Antioch (Turkey). He was sent from Syria to Rome, and became food for wild beasts on account of his testimony about Christ. The journey to martyrdom lasted several weeks. During this journey, Ignatius wrote 7 beautiful letters to various Christian communities (Ephesus, Philadelphia, Smyrna ...). These writings are a privileged testimony of the faith and life of the first Christian generations.
—Ignatius, like Christ, knew very well where he was going. The enthusiasm, belief and love with which he expected martyrdom are impressive.