Achaicus of Corinth

Achaicus of Corinth was a Corinthian Christian saint mentioned in the New Testament, primarily in the First Epistle to the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 16:17). He is historically significant for his role as a messenger in the early Christian church, facilitating communication between the church in Corinth and the Apostle Paul.

Life and Ministry

According to the biblical account, Achaicus, along with Saints Fortunatus and Stephanas, were instrumental in carrying a letter from the Corinthians to Saint Paul. They also brought back a letter from Saint Paul to the Corinthians. The exact means of their travel, whether by land from Corinth to Ephesus or by sea across the Aegean, is not specified in the biblical text.

In addition to his biblical mention, Achaicus is recognized in the holy tradition of the Eastern Orthodox Church, where he is often numbered among the Seventy Disciples. This tradition identifies a group of early followers sent out by Jesus, though their names are not explicitly listed in the Gospels. Various lists of these disciples, including Achaicus, have been compiled since the 7th century.

Veneration

Achaicus is venerated as a saint by multiple Christian denominations, including the Eastern Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic Church. In the Eastern Orthodox tradition, his feast day is celebrated on June 15, often in conjunction with his companion Fortunatas. He is also remembered on January 4 as part of the Synaxis of the Seventy Apostles, a commemoration of this broader group of early followers.

Legacy

Achaicus's legacy is primarily tied to his service as a faithful messenger for the nascent Christian communities. His participation in the correspondence between Corinth and Paul underscores the importance of communication and community support in the early spread of Christianity. His inclusion in lists of the Seventy Disciples further solidifies his standing as an early and significant figure in Christian tradition.