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Apse Mosaic in Basilica of Sant’Apollinare in Classe, near Ravenna, Italy; Saint Apollinaris of Ravenna was the city’s first bishop, and is depicted in the central portion of the mosaic. The basilica was consecrated May 9, 549 by Bishop Maximian and dedicated to Saint Apollinaris, first bishop of Ravenna and Classe.

Today we honor the first bishop of Ravenna in Italy. Originally from Antioch, Saint Apollinaris of Ravenna was given his assignment by Saint Peter to continue to make inroads in the spread of Christianity. Apollinaris faced constant persecution and was eventually martyred by the Romans. The city where he served, Ravenna, has become renowned for the beautiful mosaics that adorn its churches and monuments. Named a UNESCO World Heritage site, the city’s sacred art is considered one of the best surviving examples of the blending of Western and Eastern styles. Apollinaris, a man from the East who took the message of Christ West, would be proud. What inroads will you make in spreading the gospel today?

Apse Mosaic Detail – Saint Apollinaris of Ravenna, first bishop of Ravenna