QA 6_4_1

Q: Who were the “Apostolic Fathers?”

A: The “Apostolic Fathers” were early Christian writers (1st and 2nd centuries AD), whose works are an important reflection of the doctrines and practices of the early Church.  They were supposed to have been acquainted with one or more of the twelve apostles; however, they were not apostles themselves, thus their works do not form part of the New Testament.  Traditionally, there were five Apostolic Fathers: Clement of Rome, Ignatius of Antioch, Polycarp of Smyrna, the Shepherd of Hermas, and Barnabas. However, some sources add Papias of Hierapolis to this group.  Historically, their importance was as witnesses to the development of the early Christian Church.