A portrait of St. Justin Martyr
St. Justin Martyr
c. 100 – c. 165
Feast
June 1 · II c.
Patron of
Philosophers · Apologists · Lecturers
Order
Layman / Apologist / Martyr
Greek Christian philosopher and apologist (c. 100-c. 165), born at Flavia Neapolis (Nablus) of pagan parents; after surveying the Greek philosophical schools converted at Ephesus, opened a Christian school at Rome and wrote two Apologies and the "Dialogue with Trypho" defending the faith to pagans and Jews. Beheaded under Marcus Aurelius. Pre-Congregation.
Life & Times
Born: c. 100 · Died: c. 165 · From: Palestine / Rome.
Patronage
St. Justin Martyr is invoked as the patron of philosophers, apologists, lecturers. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
“No one who is rightly minded turns from the true to the false.”— First Apology, Chapter 12 (c. 155 AD)
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Devotional items honoring St. Justin Martyr, from our Sancta Lumina collection and beyond.
About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Justin Martyr, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.