Six of the Seventy Apostles and their missionary labors
The post describes six of the Seventy Apostles chosen to spread the Gospel. Saint Stachys was a companion of Saint Andrew the First-Called, who appointed him Bishop of Byzantium. He established and guided the Church in Argyropolis for seventeen years before reposing in peace.
Saints Amplius and Urban also labored alongside Andrew. Amplius became Bishop of Lydda in Judea, and Urban was appointed Bishop in Macedonia. Both preached Christ faithfully and received the crown of martyrdom. Saint Narcissus was appointed Bishop of Athens by the Apostle Philip, continuing the spread of Christianity in Greece.
Saint Apelles served as Bishop of Heraclea in Thrace, shepherding the faithful and proclaiming the Gospel. Saint Aristobulus, the brother of the Apostle Barnabas, traveled as far as Britain to bring the Christian faith there before reposing peacefully. The post notes that these six apostles remind us that the Church was built through the faithfulness, sacrifice, and tireless prayers of countless servants of God.
Some received martyrdom, others completed their ministry in peace, but all shared the purpose of making Jesus Christ known. Their lives teach that worldly fame is not needed to accomplish something precious in God's eyes; only a willing heart, steadfast faith, and the courage to follow Christ's call are required. The post concludes with a prayer to the holy apostles for intercession.
Main points
- Stachys: companion of Andrew, Bishop of Byzantium, led Church in Argyropolis for 17 years
- Amplius and Urban: labored with Andrew; Amplius Bishop of Lydda, Urban Bishop in Macedonia; both martyred
- Narcissus: appointed by Philip as Bishop of Athens, spread Christianity in Greece
- Apelles: Bishop of Heraclea in Thrace, shepherded the faithful
- Aristobulus: brother of Barnabas, brought faith to Britain, reposed in peace