Feast Day: June 28
Saint Irenaeus was tireless defender against the Gnostics and a champion of apostolic teaching who serves as a source of inspiration for apologists and catechists around the world. His feast day is June 28.
During the second century, the early Christian community faced the formidable challenge of Gnosticism, a heretical movement that threatened to undermine the core tenets of the faith. Saint Irenaeus emerged as a staunch opponent of Gnosticism, countering its erroneous doctrines with his extensive writings. In his seminal work, “Against Heresies,” he exposed the false teachings propagated by the Gnostics, upholding the unity and truth of the apostolic tradition handed down from Christ to His disciples.
Saint Irenaeus’ example serves as a reminder that the task of defending and explaining the faith is both noble and vital. Apologists, those who defend the truth of the Catholic faith, can draw inspiration from Saint Irenaeus’ meticulous refutations of false teachings, reminding us to engage with love, knowledge, and clarity. Catechists, entrusted with the task of transmitting the faith to others, can look to Saint Irenaeus as a model of fidelity and dedication in passing on the teachings of the Church to future generations.
Our Lady Untier of Knots
The devotion to Our Lady Untier of Knots, also known as Our Lady Undoer of Knots, is believed to have its roots in Saint Irenaeus’ profound understanding of Mary’s role in our redemption. This devotion speaks to the countless knots we encounter in our lives—challenges, conflicts, and uncertainties—that often entangle us and impede our spiritual growth. Our Lady, as the untier of knots, intercedes for us before her Son, unraveling the complexities of our lives and guiding us towards spiritual freedom and peace.
He said
The knot of Eve’s disobedience was loosed by the obedience of Mary. For what the virgin Eve had bound fast through unbelief, this did the virgin Mary set free through faith.
These words highlight the pivotal role of the Blessed Virgin Mary in our salvation history, as she undoes the knots of sin and leads us closer to her Son, Jesus Christ.
Each year on June 28, the Catholic Church honors the memory and legacy of Saint Irenaeus. On this day, we celebrate his unwavering commitment to preserving the truth of apostolic teaching and defending the faith against heresy. It is an opportune time for apologists and catechists to seek his intercession, asking for his guidance and wisdom as they strive to proclaim and explain the teachings of the Church in an increasingly secular world.
Patron Saint of …
He is the patron saint of apologists and catechists.
Daily Mass Readings for the Memorial of Saint Irenaeus, Bishop and Martyr 445 589
- First Reading – 2 Timothy 2:22b-26: Seek righteousness, faith, love, and peace. Avoid arguments. Be gentle, teach with patience, and correct kindly. God may lead others to repent and know the truth.
- Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 37: Trust and commit to the Lord. He will provide and act justly. The righteous speak wisdom and follow God’s law.
- Gospel – John 17:20-26: Jesus prays for all believers to be united, as he and the Father are united, so the world may know God’s love and that Jesus was sent by God.
The Genius of St. Irenaeus (Video): Irenaeus taught that God has no need of anything outside of himself. What does this mean, and why is it good news? Bishop Robert Barron explains.
Frequently Asked Questions
What date Is the Feast of St. Irenaeus?
It is observed annually on June 28.
What are the Mass readings for the Memorial of St. Irenaeus?
First Reading – 2 Timothy 2:22b-26: Guidance for Righteous Living
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 37: Path of the Just
Gospel – John 17:20-26: Jesus’ Prayer for Unity
Who was St. Irenaeus?
Saint Irenaeus was a prominent early Christian bishop and theologian who lived in the second century. He is best known for his writings against the Gnostics and his defense of the apostolic teachings.
Who is St. Irenaeus the patron saint of?
He is the patron saint of apologists and catechists.
What did Saint Irenaeus write about?
Saint Irenaeus wrote extensively against the Gnostics, a heretical group that distorted Christian teachings. His most famous work is “Against Heresies,” in which he systematically refuted Gnostic beliefs and emphasized the importance of apostolic tradition and the unity of the Church.
What is Gnosticism?
While Gnostic beliefs varied, there were some common elements. Gnostics generally held that the material world is inherently evil or flawed, and salvation is achieved through escaping the physical realm and returning to the spiritual realm. They believed in a hierarchy of divine beings or Aeons, with the supreme God often seen as a distant, transcendent entity. Gnostics also emphasized the importance of gnosis, a hidden knowledge that would lead to salvation.
Why is Saint Irenaeus associated with Our Lady Untier of Knots devotion?
Saint Irenaeus is often quoted as saying, “The knot of Eve’s disobedience was loosed by the obedience of Mary. For what the virgin Eve had bound fast through unbelief, this did the virgin Mary set free through faith.” This quote highlights the role of the Blessed Virgin Mary in undoing the consequences of original sin through her faith and obedience.
What can we learn from Saint Irenaeus’ life and writings today?
His life and writings remind us of the importance of remaining faithful to the teachings of the Church, especially in the face of challenges and heresy. He teaches us to defend the truth with love and knowledge, to rely on the apostolic tradition passed down through generations, and to recognize the significant role of the Blessed Virgin Mary in our redemption. Saint Irenaeus’ example can inspire us to deepen our faith and become more effective witnesses of Christ in the world.
Leave a Reply