Disciple and co-worker of St. Paul who led the Church in Ephesus. The New Testament letters to Timothy are addressed to him.
Life
Timothy came from Lystra in Asia Minor. He learned the faith from his Jewish mother Eunice and grandmother Lois; his father was Greek. He became a companion of the apostle Paul on his missionary journeys, and Paul called him his "true son in the faith."
Sent by Paul, he visited various churches to encourage the believers, and his name appears as co-sender in several of Paul's letters. The New Testament letters to Timothy are addressed to him. Tradition says he became bishop of the church in Ephesus and was martyred there. The Church remembers him on January 26 together with St. Titus.
Spirituality
Timothy's spirituality is faithfully carrying on a received faith. The belief he learned at home grew through his journey with Paul, and though young he cared faithfully for the community entrusted to him. Learning humbly at Paul's side, he grew into a shepherd himself.
Reflection
Timothy's faith began with his mother and grandmother. Faith grows first at home. What kind of faith am I passing on to the next generation in my family?