Saint Irenaeus of Lyons commemorated by the Orthodox Church

The Orthodox Church commemorates Saint Irenaeus of Lyons, an early Church Father and prominent theologian recognized as a ‘universal teacher’ for his lasting impact on Christian doctrine.

Born in the first half of the second century near Smyrna, Asia Minor, Irenaeus was a student of Polycarp of Smyrna, who in turn was a disciple of John the Apostle. Irenaeus was sent to preach in Lugdunum (modern-day Lyons, France), where he served as bishop and successfully defended the faith against heresies such as Gnosticism and Montanism.

His most significant theological work is ‘Against Heresies’. Irenaeus was martyred in 202 AD during the persecutions under Emperor Septimius Severus. His feast day coincides with the conclusion of the Dormition of the Mother of God.