Today the Church remembers and honors St. Ignatius of Antioch who died on this day sometime between 107 and 110. Ignatius was one of the first bishops of Antioch. (Tradition has it that Peter was the first and Evodius was the second).
Ignatius is known for his writings, most notably 7 letters, including to the Romans and to Polycarp. The themes of his letter include (1) the importance of maintaining Christian unity in love and sound doctrine, with warnings against factionalism and against the heresy of Docetism (the belief that Christ was not fully human and did not have a material body or really suffer and die); (2) the role of the clergy as a focus of Christian unity; and (3) Christian martyrdom.
The early church historian Eusebius places Ignatius’ death during the time of the emperor Trajan. Ignatius is reported to have said: “I prefer death in Christ Jesus to power over the farthest limits of the earth. He who died in place of us is the one object of my quest. He who rose for our sakes is my one desire.”
Let us pray: Almighty God, we praise you for your bishop and martyr Ignatius of Antioch, who offered himself as grain to be ground by the teeth of wild beasts that he might present to you the pure bread of sacrifice. Accept the willing tribute of our lives, and give us a share in the pure and spotless offering of your Son Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
CALENDAR REMINDERS
Tomorrow, Thursday, the Seaside Seniors will gather in Sutton Hall for lunch and fun! Red beans and rice is on the menu. If you know of someone who would like to attend, please let them know.
The Cathedral of Faith, Market Street Baptist Church on 2901 Market Street, is celebrating its 39thanniversary on Sunday, 21 October at 3 p.m. The guest preacher will be Pastor E.R. Johnson of the Avenue L Missionary Baptist Church. The theme is “Committed to Kingdom Building” Romans 12:1. You may recall that after Hurricane Ike, Market Street Baptist Church used our sanctuary as theirs was destroyed.
"Lord, Teach Us to Pray" continues with the Bains on Sundays at 11 a.m. This is a wonderful study!
The Ladies from the Diocese of Southern Malawi are being hosted by the Taylors and St. Augustine’s is hosting a pot luck dinner for them during their visit to the Island. If you haven’t signed up to bring a dish, please do this Sunday since the dinner will be next Thursday. They will discuss with us their work in the literacy field.
Please remember everyone on our Prayer List, especially Steve Poirier, Rose Daniels, Pat Florence and Gladys Simon.
Your servant in Christ,
Fr. Chester J. Makowski+
St. Augustine of Hippo Episcopal Church
Galveston, Texas 77550
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