October 29

Saint Narcissus of Jerusalem

Roman Martyrology

Bishop of Jerusalem who led a council on Easter's date and endured slander

Narcissus was bishop of Jerusalem in the late second century. Almost everything we know comes from the historian Eusebius, writing about a century later. Around 195, Narcissus and Bishop Theophilus of Caesarea led a gathering of Palestinian bishops that agreed to celebrate Easter on a Sunday, part of a wider debate among the churches of the time.

Eusebius also passes on stories told in Jerusalem. One says that when oil ran out for the Easter vigil lamps, Narcissus prayed over water and it burned like oil. Another says three men accused him of a grave crime; rather than fight, he withdrew to live alone in the wilderness for years. Other bishops led the church until he reappeared and was asked to return.

In extreme old age he shared his office with a younger bishop, Alexander, who wrote that Narcissus was 116 years old. Christians remember him as a patient pastor who left his reputation in God's hands.

Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him, and He will do it. He will bring forth your righteousness like the dawn, your justice like the noonday sun.

Psalm 37:5–6 · BSB

A prayer

Faithful God, you gave your servant Narcissus patience under false accusation and care for your Church through a long life. When others misjudge us, keep us from bitterness and revenge; help us trust you with our good name and serve our communities faithfully until the end, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.