Silvanus of Thessalonica
Silvanus of Thessalonica is a traditional figure in Eastern Orthodox tradition, believed to be one of the Seventy Apostles. He is mentioned by Saint Peter in his first epistle and is venerated as a martyr and Bishop of Thessalonica.
Key Facts
- ›Silvanus is traditionally considered one of the Seventy Apostles sent out by Jesus.
- ›He is mentioned by Saint Peter in the first epistle.
- ›According to tradition, Silvanus later became the Bishop of Thessalonica.
- ›He is venerated as a martyr in the Eastern Orthodox tradition.
- ›He is to be distinguished from Silas, a companion of Paul and co-writer of New Testament works.

About Silvanus of Thessalonica
Silvanus of Thessalonica is a figure recognized within Eastern Orthodox tradition, primarily known as one of the Seventy Apostles. His presence is noted in scripture through his mention by Saint Peter in the first epistle (1 Peter 5:12). According to hagiographical tradition, Silvanus later served as the Bishop of Thessalonica and met his end as a martyr.
It is important to distinguish this Silvanus from Silas, another important figure in early Christianity. Silas, also referred to as Silvanus in some contexts, was a close companion of the Apostle Paul and participated in his missionary journeys, as well as being credited as a co-writer or transcriber of several New Testament works, including the Acts of the Apostles and at least one of Peter's epistles.
The veneration of Silvanus of Thessalonica places him within the lineage of apostolic figures who spread the Christian faith. His attributes as a bishop and martyr underscore his significance in the early Church's history and its developing liturgical traditions.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Silvanus of Thessalonica?
Silvanus of Thessalonica is a traditional figure in Eastern Orthodox veneration, believed to be one of the Seventy Apostles. He is also traditionally venerated as a martyr and as the Bishop of Thessalonica.
Is Silvanus of Thessalonica mentioned in the Bible?
Silvanus is mentioned by Saint Peter in his first epistle (1 Peter 5:12). He is traditionally considered one of the Seventy Apostles, followers of Jesus mentioned in the Gospel of Luke.
How is Silvanus of Thessalonica distinguished from Silas?
Silvanus of Thessalonica is distinct from the Silvanus better known as Silas, who is a prominent figure in the New Testament, accompanying Saint Paul and involved in the writing of several epistles and Acts.
What is Silvanus of Thessalonica remembered for?
Silvanus of Thessalonica is remembered in tradition as one of the Seventy Apostles and as a martyr. He is also venerated as a Bishop of Thessalonica.
Related Saints

Urban of Macedonia
Urban of Macedonia is venerated as one of the Seventy Apostles, assisting Saint Andrew in Macedonia. He is remembered for his service as a bishop and for his martyrdom. His feast days are observed on different dates by various Christian traditions.
Onesiphorus
Onesiphorus was a Christian mentioned in the New Testament letter of Second Timothy. He is remembered for his courageous hospitality and kindness towards St. Paul when Paul was imprisoned in Rome, undertaking a significant journey to offer comfort. Both Orthodox and Roman Catholic traditions consider him a martyr.

Anacletus
Pope Anacletus, also known as Cletus, served as the bishop of Rome following Peter and Linus. He is traditionally credited with ordaining priests and establishing around twenty-five parishes in Rome. Anacletus is believed to have died as a martyr around AD 92 and is remembered in the Roman Canon of the Mass.