St. Irenaeus of Lyons – Defender of Truth & Doctor of Unity

   This ultra-detailed digital portrait of St. Irenaeus of Lyons captures the profound spiritual authority of one of the earliest and most important Fathers of the Church. Dressed in richly embroidered episcopal vestments, St. Irenaeus holds a scroll of his seminal work Adversus Haereses ("Against Heresies"), boldly defending the faith passed down from the Apostles. A radiant gold halo encircles his head, a dove hovers above—signifying the Holy Spirit—and the rolling hills of ancient Gaul (modern Lyon, France) appear in the serene background.

   This vibrant print combines traditional sacred iconography with modern clarity, ideal for catechesis, devotional spaces, or theological reflection.

   St. Irenaeus of Lyons (c. 130–c. 202 AD) was a disciple of St. Polycarp, who in turn was taught by St. John the Apostle. Appointed bishop of Lugdunum (Lyon), he confronted the dual challenges of Roman persecution and the rise of Gnosticism. In his masterwork Against Heresies, he affirmed the Incarnation, the unity of Scripture, and the authority of apostolic succession. His theology of recapitulation taught that Christ sanctified every stage of human life. In 2022, Pope Francis declared him a Doctor of the Church, bestowing the title Doctor Unitatis—Doctor of Unity.

📜 Quote from the Saint:

“The glory of God is man fully alive, and the life of man is the vision of God.”
— St. Irenaeus of Lyons, Adversus Haereses, IV.20.7

Symbolism in the Art:

• Scroll – Represents Against Heresies, his defense of the true faith

• Gold Halo – His sanctity and theological brilliance

• Dove – Holy Spirit guiding his apostolic teaching

• Episcopal Vestments & Cross – His role as bishop and martyr

• Palm leaf– His martyrdom

Perfect For:

• Catholic home decor

• Feast day celebrations (June 28)

• Gifts for seminarians, theologians, catechists

• Theology classrooms and parish libraries

• Sacred art collections 

Product Details:

• Format: High-resolution PNG

• Style: Vibrant watercolor, with gold accents

• Orientation: Portrait

• Instant Digital Download

• Best printed on fine art matte paper (8x10 or 11x14 recommended) 

Feast Day:
June 28
Title: Doctor of the Church – Doctor Unitatis (Doctor of Unity)