Saint Apollinaris was among the earliest and most revered martyrs of the Church. He was appointed Bishop of Ravenna by Saint Peter himself.
Through his preaching and the miracles worked through him, many people in Ravenna embraced the Christian faith. His growing influence, however, also stirred strong opposition among the pagan population, who repeatedly subjected him to harsh violence.
On one occasion, Saint Apollinaris was brutally attacked. He was wounded with knives, his injuries were burned with boiling water, and he was then placed on a ship and sent away to Greece.
Even in Greece, his mission did not change. He continued to preach the Gospel and perform miracles, and once again endured severe suffering. After another violent assault by pagans there, he was sent back to Italy.
During the reign of Emperor Vespasian, a decree was issued banishing Christians. Saint Apollinaris remained in hiding for a time, but while leaving the city and passing through its gates, he was discovered and viciously beaten.
He survived for seven more days, during which he foretold that persecutions would grow harsher, yet assured believers that the Church would one day prevail.