St. Justin Martyr was born around the year 100 in Samaria, a province of Palestine. His parents were Greek pagans who provided Justin with an outstanding education, especially in history and literature, which led to Justin’s love of academics. An encounter with an elderly man caused Justin to question his pagan upbringing and reliance on philosophy as the sole source of attaining truth. This man is credited with being a devout believer in God, and encouraged Justin to turn to Holy Scripture to find answers to his philosophical questions. Justin grew to admire Catholics’ way of life, feeling drawn to their morality and attainment of the truth found solely in Jesus Christ. At the age of 30, he  decided to get baptized in the Catholic Church. Justin moved to Rome, where he lived a modest life teaching religion and writing apologetics. He gained notoriety for his defense of Catholicism in anti-Christian Rome and was confronted by the emperor, who eventually had him executed. Justin is remembered for defending Catholicism until the moment he died. He is the patron saint of philosophers, apologists, and lecturers. 

Questions for Reflection:

• Do you find yourself in situations where it is difficult to defend your faith or live out your Christian beliefs? In what ways can you find the courage to live out your faith without fearing what others will say or do? 
• Are there certain people in your life who remind you of St. Justin Martyr, defending their faith even in moments when it feels uncomfortable to do so? 
• In what areas of your life do you excel at living out your faith without fear?