Saint Ignatius of Antioch, a bishop and disciple of the Apostle John, stands as one of the most vital voices connecting the Apostolic age to the next generation of Christians. On his way to martyrdom in Rome around the year 110 A.D., Ignatius wrote a series of letters to Christian communities, including this profound epistle to the Ephesians. In it, he exhorts believers to unity, fidelity to the bishop and presbyters, and unwavering faith in Christ.
 
One of the most striking features of Ignatius’ writing is his emphasis on the Eucharist as the “medicine of immortality,” a testimony that reveals how central sacramental worship was to the earliest Christians. His words also highlight the importance of apostolic succession, showing the unbroken line of leadership and teaching passed down from the Apostles themselves. Through his pastoral care and unwavering witness, Ignatius provides us with a living picture of how the early Church understood the Gospel, worship, and the communal life of believers.