St. Leonides of Alexandria – Christian Martyr and Father of Origen

ST. LEONIDES

St. Leonides of Alexandria was a Christian philosopher and the father of Origen, martyred for his faith during the persecution of Emperor Septimius Severus in the early third century.

St. Leonides of Alexandria lived in Egypt during the 2nd and early 3rd centuries, a time when Christianity was steadily growing amidst waves of persecution under the Roman Empire. He was a devout Christian philosopher and scholar, deeply committed to the faith and to the education of his children in both intellectual and spiritual matters. Among his children was the future theologian and Church Father, Origen, whose brilliance and enduring legacy owed much to his father's example and instruction.

Leonides took special care to raise Origen with a strong foundation in both the Scriptures and classical education. He is said to have kissed the sleeping child’s breast in reverence, believing it to be the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit. This level of devotion illustrated his understanding of the dignity of raising children in the ways of Christ and the pursuit of divine wisdom.

During the reign of Emperor Septimius Severus, a new wave of Christian persecution broke out around 202 AD. Leonides was among those arrested in Alexandria for his refusal to renounce the Christian faith. Despite his family's attempts to secure his release, he remained steadfast in his beliefs. His young son Origen, only about 17 at the time, wished to join his father in martyrdom but was restrained by his mother, who hid his clothes to keep him from leaving home.

Leonides was ultimately executed for his faith, beheaded as a public example to others. His martyrdom left a deep impact on Origen, who would go on to become one of the most influential Christian thinkers in the early Church. Leonides’ courage and faith not only strengthened his immediate family but also contributed to the legacy of early Christian thought and witness.

Though not much else is known about his life, St. Leonides is remembered as a noble martyr, a devout father, and a model of Christian virtue and sacrifice. His feast day is commemorated on April 22.

Feast Day

22-4-

Birth Date

--N/A

Died Date

22-4-202

Canonised Date

--N/A

Alexandria, Egypt

St. Leonides, faithful father and martyr, strengthen us to live in truth and raise future generations in the light of Christ. Inspire us with your courage and devotion to God. Amen.
ST. LEONIDES

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ST. LEONIDES

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