Saint of the Day ~ May 6

SAINT EVODIUS of ANTIOCH (?-c.67)
bishop and martyr

Today, the Church honors Saint Evodius of Antioch, who is traditionally regarded as one of the seventy-two disciples commissioned by Jesus, which we read about in the Gospels.

Eusebius, bishop of Caesarea in Roman Palestine and author of The Church History written in the fourth century, wrote about Saint Evodius. In his writings, we learn that Saint Peter, after having established the Church in the city of Antioch, left for Rome where he would watch over the Church until his death.

Upon Peter’s departure from Antioch, Evodius was chosen as the first bishop of Antioch after Saint Peter. And it is believed that Evodius, while bishop, first used the term “Christian”, presumably because it was the Gentile members of the community who desired it to stand out clearly from those who were originally followers or Judaism.

For it is in the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 11:26) where we find Scripture informing us that it was at Antioch when this word was first used by the Gentiles. Prior to that time, the followers of the teachings of Jesus Christ would be called members of “The Way”.

As a shepherd of Christ’s flock, he watched over those entrusted to his spiritual care, constantly nourishing them through both Word and Sacrament.

Saint Evodius was martyred about the year 67, and Saint Ignatius of Antioch succeeded him as bishop.

We commemorate his feastday on May 6.

(From catholicnewsagency.com, saints.sqpn.com, acatholicview.blogspot.com and newadvent.org)

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PRAYER

(The following prayer is from the Roman Breviary from the Commons for Pastors ~ bishop)

“Lord God, You counted Saint Evodius among Your holy pastors, renowned for faith and love which conquered evil in this world. By the help of his prayers, keep us strong in faith and love and let us come to share his glory.

“Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son, who lives and reigns with You in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.”