Archippus
Archippus is mentioned in the New Testament as a faithful servant of Christ and a companion of St. Paul. His dedication to the early Church exemplifies the spirit of community and support.
- Feast day
- Mar 20
- Known as
- Confessor · Layperson
- Era
- 1st-century Roman Empire
Who they were
Archippus is a biblical figure mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in Paul's letter to the Colossians. He is described as "our fellow soldier" and is thought to have been a leader in the early Christian community in Colossae. While specific details about his early life are sparse, Archippus' close association with St. Paul suggests that he was deeply embedded in the midst of the nascent Church’s activities and challenges.
His mention in Colossians 4:17 indicates that he was entrusted with a significant role within the community, possibly serving as a pastor or teacher. Paul encourages him to "take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it." This exhortation not only highlights Archippus's dedication but also calls attention to the importance of fulfilling one's vocation in service to Christ and the Church.
Archippus is believed to have been connected to Philemon, as Paul addresses him alongside Philemon in the same letter. This suggests that he may have had a familial or close friendship link within the burgeoning Christian community, further underscoring the importance of relationships and community in the early Church.
Though Scripture does not provide details about the end of his life, tradition holds that Archippus continued his work as a steward of the faith, promoting unity and perseverance among early Christians. Various traditions suggest that he might have been martyred for his faith, a common fate for many early Christian leaders who faced persecution.
Archippus's legacy is one marked by service, dedication, and the spirit of support within the Church. His life reflects the commitment of faithful disciples who, though not always in the spotlight, played vital roles in the establishment and growth of Christianity. Today, he serves as a reminder of the call to ministry and the importance of encouraging one another in faith and service, embodying the encouragement Paul offered him to diligently fulfill his calling.
Remembered for
Archippus is remembered as a devoted follower of Christ and a significant companion of St. Paul in his missionary work. He is celebrated for his commitment to the faith and his contributions to the early Church, exemplifying a spirit of service and communal support.
His dedication is further highlighted in the New Testament, where he is encouraged by Paul to fulfill his ministry. This guidance reflects the importance of perseverance in faith and supporting one another within the Christian community. Archippus serves as an inspiring example for believers to engage actively in their spiritual responsibilities and to uplift one another.
Mar 20
How to recognize them
- ScrollRepresents the teachings of St. Paul he helped spread.
- Palm branchSymbol of peace and victory in faith.
- LampSignifies the light of Christ in his ministry.
- ChainRepresents his connection to the early Christian community.
Pray with this saint
Holy Archippus, inspire us with your unwavering faith and commitment to Christ. Help us to be diligent in our own vocations and to support those around us in their spiritual journeys. Intercede for us, that we may grow in love and service, reflecting the light of Christ in all we do.
For your household
Incorporating St. Archippus into family life can be a wonderful way to deepen faith and foster community. Engage your children in conversations about his role in the early Church and what it means to support one another in faith. This can spark discussions on how they can be faithful servants in their own lives, whether at home, school, or in the community.
Consider establishing a special tradition on his feast day, March 20. Your family might attend Mass together or set aside time for prayer, specifically asking St. Archippus to guide them in their personal ministries. Creating a family prayer card with his image and a simple prayer could serve as a lovely reminder to invoke his intercession regularly. You could also share stories of how family members support each other in their endeavors, echoing Archippus's spirit of community.
Finally, encourage your children to think of ways they can engage with others in their surroundings, perhaps through community service or kindness to classmates. Recalling St. Archippus as a model can reinforce the values of commitment, service, and support for one another in faith.
Pray as a household
Carry your family in prayer
Solua gives your family a simple, faithful rhythm of prayer — one unhurried moment at a time, for the people you carry by name.
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