Stachys the Apostle
Stachys the Apostle was the second bishop of Byzantium, serving from 38 to 54 AD according to tradition. He is mentioned once in the New Testament and is closely associated with Andrew the Apostle and Paul the Apostle. Stachys is remembered for his role in the early Christian community of Byzantium and for founding a church at Argyropouli.
- Feast Day
- October 31
- Century
- 1st century
- Country Or Region
- Turkey
Key Facts
- ›Stachys the Apostle was the second bishop of Byzantium, from 38 to 54 AD according to tradition.
- ›He is mentioned in the New Testament (Romans 16:9) as a person loved by Paul the Apostle.
- ›Tradition states that Andrew the Apostle founded the See of Byzantium in 38 AD and installed Stachys as bishop.
- ›Stachys held the position of bishop for sixteen years.
- ›He founded a church at Argyropouli where many people gathered to hear him preach.
- ›He is associated with five other apostles mentioned together with him by Paul in Romans 16:8–11.
Stachys
About Stachys the Apostle
Stachys the Apostle, whose name means "ear-spike" in Greek, is traditionally recognized as the second bishop of Byzantium, serving in that capacity from 38 to 54 AD. His figure is primarily known through ecclesiastical tradition, with only one direct mention in the New Testament.
Biblical Mention
The Apostle Paul mentions Stachys in his Epistle to the Romans (Romans 16:9), referring to him as a person whom he holds in affection. Beyond this singular reference, detailed historical accounts of Stachys are absent from scripture. It is debated whether this Stachys is precisely the same individual Paul calls "dear" in Romans 16:9, though he is consistently associated with other apostles named in the same passage.
Tradition and Ministry
According to tradition, Stachys was closely connected to both Andrew the Apostle and Paul the Apostle. The tradition holds that Saint Andrew founded the See of Byzantium in 38 AD and appointed Stachys as its first bishop. He reportedly held this position for sixteen years. This See would later evolve into the Patriarchate of Constantinople, with Apostle Andrew as its patron saint. Stachys is also credited with founding a church at Argyropouli, which became a gathering place for many to hear him preach.
Associations and Feast Day
Stachys is traditionally linked with five other apostles mentioned by Paul in Romans 16:8–11: Ampliatus, Urban of Macedonia, Apelles of Heraklion, Aristobulus of Britannia, and Narcissus of Athens. His feast day is observed on 31 October.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Stachys the Apostle?
Stachys the Apostle was the second bishop of Byzantium, according to tradition, serving from 38 to 54 AD. He is mentioned in the New Testament as a person loved by Paul the Apostle.
What is Stachys the Apostle known for?
Stachys is chiefly remembered for his leadership as the bishop of Byzantium for sixteen years. Tradition also credits him with founding a church at Argyropouli.
What is the origin of the information about Stachys?
Stachys is mentioned once in the New Testament (Romans 16:9). All other information regarding him comes from tradition, which connects him with Andrew the Apostle and Paul the Apostle.
When is the feast day of Stachys the Apostle?
The feast day of Stachys the Apostle is on October 31.
What is the relationship between Stachys and Andrew the Apostle?
According to tradition, Saint Andrew founded the See of Byzantium in 38 AD and installed Stachys as its first bishop. Stachys is closely connected to Andrew the Apostle.
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