February 16 – St. Onesimus
Born: c. first century
Died: 90
Nationality: Phrygian (modern day Turkey)
Vocation: bishop
Attributes: scroll
Canonization: pre-congregation
St. Onesimus was the subject of Paul’s Letter to Philemon, his master, in the New Testament. Onesimus encountered Paul in a Roman prison after fleeing Philemon and was baptized by the Apostle.
As Paul entreated, Philemon forgave Onesimus and gave him freedom to assist Paul in his mission. Colossians 4:7-9 mentions Onesimus as one of those who delivered the letter to the Colossians.
St. Jerome and other Church Fathers testify that Onesimus was a gifted preacher of the gospel and eventually succeeded St. Timothy as bishop of Ephesus.
After preaching on the merit of celibacy, Onesimus was arrested and tortured for 18 days by order of a Roman governor. He won the crown of martyrdom after he was stoned to death.
St. Onesimus, pray for us.
