Probably from Smyrna, where as a boy he knew Polycarp, Irenæus studied at Rome, and then became a priest at Lyons at the invitation of the first bishop there, Pothinus. He was sent to Rome with a letter for the Roman bishop during a time of persecution. On his return he found that Pothinus had been killed in the persecution. Irenaeus himself was made the new bishop. He is well known for his theological argument and writings upholding true doctrine.

Lord Jesus, the Logos, the Word of God, and also the Truth and the Life, teach us the importance of words in spreading Your truth and teaching Your way of life. Give us courage to stand up for what is right and to live it out day by day. Amen.