Bishop Apollinaris Claudius of Hierapolis (AD 179)

Following the death of Abercius, Apollinaris Claudius served as Hierapolis’ bishop for twelve years, from 167 to 179. He was a prominent leader, writer, and defender of the Christian faith. Claudius wrote the following concerning the teaching of Montanism, “The faithful of Roman province of Asia, at many times and in many places, came together to consult on the subject of Montanus and his followers; and these new doc- trines were examined and declared strange and impious.” He published an Apologia, an apologetic defense of Christianity that he sent to emperor Marcus Aurelius in 177. He died around 179.