Displayed Resilience when Persecuted
St Polycarp extensively shows resilience throughout his martyrdom. When the proconsul says: “Swear, and I will release you; Curse Christ.”, St Polycarp replies with: “eighty and six years have I served him, and he never once wronged me; how then shall I blaspheme my King, who has saved me?”.
The proconsul kept telling him to “Swear by the fortune of Caesar!”, though St Polycarp told them that “we are taught to give all due honour (which entails no injury upon ourselves) to the powers and authorities which are ordained of God. But as for these, I do not deem them worthy of receiving any account from me.” Though the crowd became angry, his countenance was full of joy, confidence and grace.
This excerpt of St Polycarp’s martyrdom strongly relates to the youth today. It can be seen when children face peer pressure and a decision is worth everything whether or not to give in. In the face of many disagreeing with your thoughts and persuasion to go on the wrong path, it takes strength to say no and stand up for what you believe in and to be proud of it, like St Polycarp.
The proconsul kept telling him to “Swear by the fortune of Caesar!”, though St Polycarp told them that “we are taught to give all due honour (which entails no injury upon ourselves) to the powers and authorities which are ordained of God. But as for these, I do not deem them worthy of receiving any account from me.” Though the crowd became angry, his countenance was full of joy, confidence and grace.
This excerpt of St Polycarp’s martyrdom strongly relates to the youth today. It can be seen when children face peer pressure and a decision is worth everything whether or not to give in. In the face of many disagreeing with your thoughts and persuasion to go on the wrong path, it takes strength to say no and stand up for what you believe in and to be proud of it, like St Polycarp.