Apostolic Fathers

Apostolic Fathers, term applied to certain disciples and successors of the 12 apostles. In a more restricted sense, the term is applied to a group of Greek-language writers who were among the martyrs and major figures of the 1st and 2nd centuries in the Christian church. Although not considered worthy of inclusion in the Bible, their writings may be ranked as a continuation of the writings of the apostles themselves and are considered a valuable source of early church history. Generally accepted as Apostolic Fathers are Clement I of Rome, St. Ignatius of Antioch, and St. Polycarp. Opinion is divided on whether Saint Barnabas (flourished about 130 ad) and Hermas are Apostolic Fathers. Among the writings also associated with the Apostolic Fathers is the Teaching of the Twelve Apostles, or Didache; opinion also differs on the authorship of this work.