For the Glory of God

We celebrate the Memorial of St. Irenaeus today. One of the commentaries tells us, "Saint Irenaeus was a disciple of St. Polycarp, who was in turn a disciple of St. John, the Evangelist. St. Irenaeus defended vigorously the reality of Christ's incarnation so eloquently proclaimed by John. In old age, he gave his life rather than relinquish his Lord" (Magnificat, 382). The Church continually holds up men and women outstanding in holiness. They were not afraid to defend the faith and were not afraid to give up their lives for the sake of Christ and the gospel. Jesus tells us in the gospels, "Do not be afraid." Even in our own day, that same message was conveyed by our beloved Holy Father, the Venerable Pope John Paul II, who told us "Do not be afraid, Open wide the doors to Christ." We are living in critical times but our call is still, "Do not be afraid." Do not be afraid to live your faith, to defend it vigorously, and to do all we can for the glory of God. St. Irenaeus, pray for us as we follow the example you set before us!