Today is the feast of St. Polycarp, a bishop-martyr from the 2nd century who was a disciple of St. John the Apostle. He was told to offer incense to the gods in order to avoid martyrdom and he responded: “Eighty-six years I have been his servant, and He has done me no wrong. How then can I blaspheme my King who saved me?”

If you have time today, try to read the entire Martyrdom of Polycarp ^[1] – it is a beautiful example of martyrdom in the early Church. While you are reading it, try to notice the Eucharistic themes throughout – how Polycarp himself becomes a Eucharist in his sacrifice.

St. Polycarp, pray for us!