Pope Benedict XVI presents San Ignacio de Antioquia

Pope Benedict XVI spoke about Saint Ignatius of Antioch during a general audience in St. Peter's Square, where approximately 25,000 people gathered. The Pope described the saint as a doctor of unity while continuing his teaching on the apostolic fathers.

Ignatius served as the bishop of Antioch from 70 to 107 AD, a city where disciples were first called Christians. While being transported to Rome to face execution by wild animals, Ignatius visited various cities to reaffirm the faith of local Christians.

Benedict XVI explained that Ignatius's writings combine the spiritual currents of Paul, which focus on union with Christ, and John, which focuses on living in Christ. The Pope stated that Ignatius's desire for union with Christ creates a mysticism of unity. He also referenced the seven letters Ignatius wrote during his journey, noting that the bishop taught that the unity Christians must achieve on earth should imitate the absolute unity of the three persons of God.