Hieromartyr · 1st–2nd century
Ignatius the God-bearer
Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-bearer, Bishop of Antioch
New Calendar December 20 Old Calendar January 2
Why they are a saint
Ignatius the God-bearer is remembered as bishop of Antioch, disciple of the apostles, taken to Rome and given to the beasts. His letters on the Church, the Eucharist, and martyrdom are apostolic-era treasures. The years given for this life are 1st–2nd century.
Life
Saint Ignatius the God-Bearer was, like Saint Polycarp, a disciple of the Apostle John the Theologian, and became the second Bishop of Antioch after Euodius. Tradition says that as a child he was the one whom the Saviour embraced, saying, 'Unless you turn and become as little children...' He is called God-Bearer because he bore God in his heart. The practice of antiphonal singing by two choirs is attributed to him, after a vision of angels singing alternately.
In 106, when Trajan ordered thanksgiving to the pagan gods, Ignatius came before the emperor of his own accord to turn the persecution from his flock, refused to sacrifice, and was sent to Rome to be thrown to the beasts. He accepted the sentence with joy, and on the way his ship stopped at Smyrna, where he met Saint Polycarp. In Rome he was devoured by lions. His relics were taken to Antioch and later returned to Rome.
Sources: OCA Lives of the Saints. Retold in our own words.
Traditional patronage
The cited source names no specific patronage.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Ignatius the God-bearer as a patron when they bear the name Ignatius; Ignaty at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on December 20. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Ignatius the God-bearer, pray to God for us.
A short general prayer to a saint, not a liturgical text. No public-domain troparion for this saint is included.
Do not confuse with Ignatius Brianchaninov; other Ignatiuses.