Rufus of Thebes
April 8·Greece
Rufus of Thebes is venerated in Eastern Orthodox tradition as one of the Seventy Disciples and was bishop of Thebes in Greece. He is traditionally identified with a figure mentioned in the New Testament epistle to the Romans, though this identification is debated. Rufus is remembered for his apostolic ministry and his entreaty for the souls of the faithful.
Key Facts
- ›He is numbered among the Seventy Disciples in Eastern Orthodox tradition.
- ›He served as the bishop of Thebes in Greece.
- ›Some traditions identify him with the Rufus mentioned in Romans 16:13.
- ›His feast day is celebrated on April 8.
- ›He is also commemorated on January 4 with the other Seventy Apostles.
About Rufus of Thebes
Rufus of Thebes (Greek: Ῥοῦφος ό Θηβαίος) is a figure venerated within Eastern Orthodox tradition as one of the Seventy Disciples. Historical accounts and hagiography identify him as the bishop of Thebes in Greece. While some traditions link him to the Rufus mentioned in the New Testament epistle to the Romans (Romans 16:13), this identification is not universally accepted, with some scholars suggesting the Rufus in Romans may refer to a different individual mentioned in the Gospel of Mark.
Veneration and Feast Days
Rufus of Thebes is honored with a feast day on April 8. He is also commemorated liturgically on January 4 as part of a larger group of the Seventy Apostles. Hymns composed in his honor, such as the Troparion and Kontakion, praise him and his fellow apostles for their entreaty to the Trinity for the salvation of souls and for granting forgiveness of transgressions.
Historical Context
The exact historical details surrounding Rufus of Thebes' life and ministry are largely preserved through liturgical tradition and the writings of church historians. His association with the Seventy Disciples places him within the early period of Christianity, following the ministry of Jesus Christ. His role as bishop of Thebes signifies his leadership and authority within the early Christian community in that region.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Rufus of Thebes?
Rufus of Thebes is venerated in Eastern Orthodox tradition as one of the Seventy Disciples. He is also believed to have served as the bishop of Thebes in Greece.
Is Rufus of Thebes mentioned in the Bible?
Some traditions suggest he is the Rufus mentioned in Romans 16:13, though this is debated. Easton's Bible Dictionary notes that the Rufus in Romans might be the same one mentioned in the Gospel of Mark.
When is Rufus of Thebes' feast day?
His feast day is celebrated on April 8. He is also commemorated on January 4 along with the other Seventy Apostles.
What is Rufus of Thebes known for?
He is known for his inclusion among the Seventy Disciples and his role as bishop of Thebes. He is honored in liturgical hymns within the Eastern Orthodox Church.
Related Saints
Phlegon of Marathon
Phlegon of Marathon is numbered among the Seventy Disciples of Christ. He is recognized as a saint and served as bishop of Marathon in Thrace. Phlegon is chiefly remembered for his inclusion in the New Testament’s Epistle to the Romans and his veneration across various Christian traditions.
Herodion of Patras
Herodion of Patras was traditionally numbered among the Seventy Disciples of Jesus and is believed to have become bishop of Patras. He is remembered for his suffering for the faith, enduring beatings, stoning, and stabbing, and for his eventual martyrdom in Rome alongside Olympas while serving Saint Peter. His feast days are celebrated on January 4, April 8, and November 10.
Jason of Thessalonica
Jason of Thessalonica was an early Christian convert and believer mentioned in the New Testament. He is venerated as a saint in Orthodox and Roman Catholic traditions, primarily remembered for hosting the apostles Paul, Silas, and Timothy and for his missionary work with Sosipater in Corfu.