Jun 28 – St. Irenaeus, bishop, martyr
Irenaeus (c.130–202) was a disciple of St. Polycarp of Smyrna. He was ordained in 177. He was Bishop of Lugdunum, Gaul (modern Lyons, France). He worked and wrote against Gnosticism, basing his arguments on the works of St. John the Apostle, whose gospel is often cited by Gnostics. He dispatched evangelists, including St. Ferreolus of Besancon, and St. Ferrutio of Bescancon. He is considered the first great Western ecclesiastical writer and theologian, and he emphasized the unity of the Old and New Testaments, as well as Christ’s simultaneous human and divine nature, and the value of tradition. He is a Father of the Church, and was martyred for his faith.
- Patron Saint Index
2 Tim 2:22-26
Jn 17:20-26
“May they all be one.”
Today’s first reading is a reminder to me to be patient to all who question us about the faith. This questioning can come from a sincere desire to know God, or with the intention to dismiss the belief system which we possess. St Irenaeus practised what St Paul wrote to Timothy during the former’s time in preaching against the Gnostic heresy.
St Irenaeus preached from a position of charity. He wanted to save the souls of the believers who have wavered through persuasion and sound arguments. In some ways, this is the reality which we face at the present moment, where there are differing views which we encounter in the church today. They threaten to tear the very fabric of the church but unlike other institutions, it is God the Holy Spirit who remains throughout these tumultuous times to guide and help us.
The devil is subtle and seeks to sow seeds of potential confusion under different guises, e.g. leadership renewal, keeping updated with the times, ensuring that churches are full. It is in times like this that we need to discern the intent of the action and to put a firm stop if it detracts from the true message of Christ. This process of discernment can only come through a deep process of prayer and an encounter with Jesus on a regular basis.
St Irenaeus has shown us that the universal principle of charity will melt the hearts of the confused. As we continue with the demands of our lives, may we take time to pause and to pray for the wisdom to understand the truth of God before sharing it with love.
(Today’s OXYGEN by Nicholas Chia)
Prayer: St Irenaeus, help us to share the Gospel firmly and lovingly.
Thanksgiving: We give thanks for those who teach the faith.
OXYGEN 
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