St. Polycarp

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses the historical evidence of St. Ploycarp and those who believe his existence, and those who do not. It recounts the tale of the martyrdom of Polycarp, and then proceeds to discuss reasons for the disbelief in this Saint. Issues such as lack of documentation, which the Catholic Church refutes; conflicting dates which relate to verified historical documents; and the general belief that the martyrdom of Polycarp is a myth that is a compilation of various tales during the time of his life, which is also disputed by the Catholic Church, are all discussed.

From the Paper:

"The Martyrdom of Polycarp focuses on St. Polycarp, who had devoted his faith to Jesus Christ and Christianity at a time when Romans believed Christianity to be satanic ("St." 2003). Captured by the Romans and taken to a stadium, Polycarp was placed before the crowds and told that he had to relinquish his belief in Jesus or he would be burned alive. Polycarp told the Romans that if they knew the glory of his faith they would not treat him as they were. Yet, when the Romans told Polycarp to tell all those in the stadium about his supposed religious beliefs Polycarp refused, telling the Romans that they could never understand his love of God. The Romans, therefore, decided to burn Polycarp alive."

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