Saint Syntyche of Philippi

Biography

Saint Syntyche of Philippi, also known as Synteches or Syntykhé, is one of the lesser-known figures mentioned in the Bible. Her name is mentioned by Saint Paul the Apostle in his Letter to the Philippians, where he acknowledges her as a fellow co-worker in spreading the gospel. However, unfortunately, not much information about her has been passed down to us through the ages. In the letter, which was written around 62 AD, Saint Paul refers to Syntyche alongside another woman named Euodia. He recognizes both women for their contributions to the ministry and urges them to reconcile their differences. This mention of Syntyche offers us a glimpse into her involvement with the early Christian community in Philippi. Although there is little known about her life and background, we can gather some insights from the context provided in the letter. Philippi was an important city in Macedonia, and Saint Paul had established a Christian community there during his missionary journeys. It is likely that Syntyche was an active member of this community and, along with Euodia and others, played a significant role in promoting the message of Christ. The fact that Saint Paul mentions Syntyche by name highlights her importance and the respect he held for her. Her inclusion in the letter suggests that she was a trusted and faithful companion in his missionary work. It also indicates that she faced challenges and conflicts within the community, as Saint Paul's exhortation for her and Euodia to find harmony implies. Despite the lack of specific details about her life, Saint Syntyche is commemorated as a saint in the Catholic Church. Her feast day is celebrated on July 22nd. While she may not have an identified patronage or representations in artwork, her connection to Saint Paul's ministry and her dedication to spreading the gospel make her a noteworthy figure in early Christianity. It is important to recognize the limitations of our knowledge about Saint Syntyche. The scarcity of historical information does not diminish the significance of her presence and contributions to the early Christian community. Her example serves as a reminder that countless faithful individuals throughout history have played valuable but often overlooked roles in the spread of the gospel and the growth of the Church.