This California Church Honors The Great St. Ignatius of Antioch
As a writer, I am drawn to saints who also liked putting pen to paper, and there is no saint more famous for this than St. Ignatius of Antioch.
St. Ignatius of Antioch, one of the early Church Fathers, was a bishop, martyr, and prolific writer whose letters have profoundly shaped Christian theology and practice. Born around 35 AD, Ignatius was a disciple of the Apostle John and became the third Bishop of Antioch.
His deep faith and leadership were tested during the persecutions of Christians under Roman rule, but it was during his journey to Rome—where he would ultimately face martyrdom—that Ignatius penned a series of letters to various Christian communities. These letters are treasured for their insights into early Church teachings, especially on the Eucharist, bishops' authority, and the Church's unity.
Ignatius's words reveal a passionate commitment to Christ and a bold encouragement to his fellow believers to stand firm in their faith, even in the face of persecution. His writings are a testament to the enduring power of faith and the written word, making him an inspiring figure for any writer or believer seeking a deeper connection with the early roots of Christianity.
Like many Christians of his time, St. Ignatius became a martyr, which he accepted ahead of time and deemed as a means to unite with Christ fully.
An incredible saint like Ignatius - whose feast day is October 17th - deserves an incredible pilgrimage, which is precisely what you will find at this California church:
Aptly named St. Ignatius of Antioch Catholic Church, this welcoming parish is one you will want to visit the next time you are in the Golden State.
Located in the city of Antioch, St. Ignatius features unique and beautiful touches, including a massive pipe organ, an intricate stone wall, and icons depicting the parish's patron saint.
While most parishes host special events here and there, St. Ignatius hosts many that are open to registered parishioners and visitors alike!
From the annual Oktoberfest celebration to Christmas concerts, saint-inspired dinners, Bingo, and a parish festival, there is something for everyone to love at St. Ignatius of Antioch!
For more information on upcoming events, please check out the Church's calendar of events.
Mass at St. Ignatius of Antioch is Monday through Friday at 8 a.m., Saturday at 4 p.m., and Sunday at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m.
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To learn more about St. Ignatius of Antioch Catholic Church, please visit their website.