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Asclepiades of Antioch

Asclepiades of Antioch was the Patriarch of Antioch from 211 until his death around 218 AD. He is remembered as a confessor due to the trials he endured during Roman persecution and is venerated in the Roman Catholic Church.

Feast Day
October 18
Country Or Region
Antioch

Key Facts

  • Asclepiades served as Patriarch of Antioch from 211 until his death.
  • He succeeded Serapion as Patriarch of Antioch.
  • He was given the title of confessor for enduring trials during Roman persecution.
  • His term of office likely began around 211 or 212 AD, during the reign of Emperor Caracalla.
  • His death is recorded as either around 218 AD or 220 AD.
  • Philetus was his successor as Patriarch of Antioch.
Also Known As

Asclepiades, Aslipiades, Askelpiades, the Confessor

Death Year
c. 218
Venerated In
Role Type
Relics Location
Church of the Redeemer, Vienna, Austria

About Asclepiades of Antioch

Asclepiades of Antioch, also known as Aslipiades or Askelpiades, was a significant figure in the early Christian Church, serving as the Patriarch of Antioch from 211 until his death around 218 or 220 AD. He is primarily remembered for his steadfastness during times of Roman persecution, earning him the title of "Confessor."

Life and Ministry

Asclepiades' patriarchate began in 211. Eusebius of Caesarea places the start of his term in office in the first year of Emperor Caracalla's reign, which is typically given as 212 AD, though some scholars suggest an earlier commencement. Asclepiades succeeded Serapion as the head of the See of Antioch. His tenure as patriarch concluded with his death, with the year of his passing commonly cited as 218, though 220 is also given as a possibility.

Veneration

He is venerated in the Roman Catholic Church, with his memorial day observed on October 18th. The title "Confessor" signifies his enduring trials and witness to the faith without necessarily suffering martyrdom. His successor in the patriarchate was Philetus. A notable relic, a full-body representation of Asclepiades, is housed in the Church of the Redeemer in Vienna, Austria.

Source: Wikipedia ↗

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Asclepiades of Antioch?

Asclepiades of Antioch was the Patriarch of Antioch from 211 until his death around 218 AD. He is known for the trials he endured during Roman persecution, earning him the title of confessor.

When did Asclepiades of Antioch serve as Patriarch?

Asclepiades of Antioch served as Patriarch of Antioch from 211 AD until his death, which is recorded as around 218 AD or possibly 220 AD. His term began during the reign of Emperor Caracalla, with his office usually dated to 212 AD.

Why is Asclepiades of Antioch called 'the Confessor'?

He was given the title of confessor because of the significant trials and suffering he endured during periods of Roman persecution against Christians.

When is the feast day of Asclepiades of Antioch?

His memorial day in the Roman Catholic Church is observed on October 18.

Where is Asclepiades of Antioch venerated?

Asclepiades of Antioch is venerated in the Roman Catholic Church. His feast day is celebrated on October 18, and a full-body relic is kept in Vienna, Austria.