Saint Aquila, Apostle of the Seventy, was a Jewish native of Pontus and a possible disciple of the Apostle Paul. He lived in Rome with his wife, Saint Priscilla, until the emperor Claudius expelled all Jews from the city. They settled in Corinth, where they met Saint Paul, who stayed with them and shared in their tentmaking trade. After receiving baptism, Aquila and Priscilla became devoted followers of Paul, accompanying him to Ephesus. There, they encountered the eloquent preacher Apollos and taught him more fully the Christian faith.

Following Claudius’s death, they returned to Rome and were fondly remembered by Paul in his Epistle to the Romans for their dedication to Christ and the Church. Saint Aquila was later ordained bishop and continued to spread the Gospel across Asia, Achaia, and Heraklia, converting pagans, strengthening the faithful, and establishing churches. He and Saint Priscilla ultimately suffered martyrdom for their faith, sealing their apostolic work with their blood.

Troparion — Tone 1

As a disciple and companion of Paul / you received in your soul the grace of preaching. / You shone in the night of error and struggled for the Lord’s glory. / Sacred minister of the Savior, Aquila, we all acclaim you.

Kontakion — Tone 4

The Church has acquired you, O Aquila, / who shine like a great sun. / With the splendor of your teaching / she enlightens those who honor you with faith, / glorious Apostle of the Lord.