- 1. St. Polycarp, an influential figure in early Christianity, was born around 69 AD in Smyrna, a city located in present-day Turkey. He is renowned for his role as the Bishop of Smyrna, where he served faithfully for many years, becoming a crucial link between the apostles and the subsequent generations of Christians. His life is primarily documented through the accounts of his martyrdom, a stirring narrative written by the church in Smyrna that highlights his unwavering faith and steadfast commitment to the teachings of Jesus Christ in the face of persecution. Polycarp was known for his deep piety, sound theological insight, and pastoral care for his flock. He notably resisted the growing influence of heretical teachings in the church, advocating for orthodoxy and the importance of adhering to the apostolic traditions. At the age of 86, he was arrested during a time of intensified Roman persecution against Christians. Refusing to renounce his faith or sacrifice to the Roman gods, he boldly proclaimed, 'Eighty-six years I have served Him, and He never did me any injury; how then can I blaspheme my King who saved me?' His courageous stand led to his martyrdom, being burned at the stake and, according to tradition, ultimately killed by a sword. St. Polycarp was venerated as a saint within the Christian tradition, particularly among the Eastern Orthodox and Catholic Churches, and his feast day is celebrated on February 23. His legacy endures through his writings, the letters he is believed to have written, and the example he set of faithfulness in trials, making him a powerful symbol of Christian endurance and commitment.
Who was St. Polycarp?
A) A Jewish scholar
B) A Roman general
C) A Christian bishop of Smyrna
D) A Greek philosopher
- 2. In which century did St. Polycarp live?
A) 1st century
B) 3rd century
C) 2nd century
D) 4th century
- 3. What is St. Polycarp known for?
A) Negotiating peace treaties
B) Founding Constantinople
C) His martyrdom
D) Writing the Iliad
- 4. Which apostle is St. Polycarp traditionally said to have known?
A) St. Peter
B) St. Paul
C) St. Matthew
D) St. John
- 5. What is the name of the letter attributed to St. Polycarp?
A) Epistle to the Romans
B) Letter to the Ephesians
C) Letter to the Philippians
D) Letter of Barnabas
- 6. Where was St. Polycarp martyred?
A) Jerusalem
B) Rome
C) Smyrna
D) Athens
- 7. Who presided over the trial leading to St. Polycarp's death?
A) A local governor
B) The Roman proconsul
C) A Jewish high priest
D) The Emperor
- 8. How did St. Polycarp die?
A) Stoned to death
B) Beheaded
C) Burned at the stake
D) Crucified
- 9. What year is St. Polycarp believed to have died?
A) AD 100
B) AD 155
C) AD 200
D) AD 250
- 10. St. Polycarp is an important figure in which early Christian era?
A) Apostolic Fathers
B) Patristic
C) Reformation
D) Ecumenical
- 11. What did St. Polycarp emphasize in his teachings?
A) Animal sacrifices
B) The importance of martyrdom
C) Wealth accumulation
D) The role of government
- 12. What age was St. Polycarp when he was martyred?
A) 60 years
B) 86 years
C) 100 years
D) 75 years
- 13. Who is considered a disciple of St. Polycarp?
A) Clement
B) Irenaeus
C) Ignatius
D) Justin
- 14. What does St. Polycarp's legacy represent in Christianity?
A) Political power
B) Philosophical reasoning
C) Material wealth
D) Faithfulness to God
- 15. Which emperor was ruling during St. Polycarp's death?
A) Marcus Aurelius
B) Nero
C) Trajan
D) Domitian
- 16. Which religion did St. Polycarp advocate for?
A) Judaism
B) Paganism
C) Gnosticism
D) Christianity
- 17. According to tradition, who appointed St. Polycarp as bishop?
A) Emperor Constantine
B) The Council of Nicaea
C) St. John the Apostle
D) St. Peter
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