St. Titus

St. Titus was a Gentile convert of Greek origin and one of the most trusted companions of St. Paul, who calls him "my true child in a common faith." Uncircumcised, he became a living sign of the Gospel's freedom when Paul refused to have him circumcised at Jerusalem, upholding that Gentiles need not first become Jews to follow Christ. Paul entrusted him with the delicate mission of reconciling the troubled church at Corinth, a task he carried out with such success that his return brought the Apostle great consolation.

Paul left him to organize and lead the young Church on the island of Crete, appointing elders and setting its life in order. To him is addressed the New Testament Epistle to Titus, a letter of pastoral counsel on sound doctrine and holy living. Tradition holds that he governed the Cretan church for many years and died there in old age. He is honored with St. Timothy on 26 January.