Timothy and Titus Disciples of Paul

Saints Timothy and Titus were two of the most faithful companions and immediate disciples of the Apostle Paul. Timothy, originally from Lystra (Lycaonia), born of a Jewish Christian mother and a Greek father, was circumcised by Paul to facilitate his mission among the Jews. He is mentioned in several Pauline epistles and was an essential collaborator of Paul, accompanying him on his missionary journeys. Paul addressed the first two Pastoral Epistles to him. Timothy became the first Bishop of Ephesus and, according to tradition, was martyred around 97 AD. Titus, a Gentile convert of Paul, was also a trusted collaborator. He accompanied Paul to Jerusalem for the Council and was sent to Crete to organize the Church there, becoming its first bishop. Paul wrote the Epistle to Titus to him. His death is traditionally placed around 96-98 AD. Their memory is celebrated together due to their crucial role in the Pauline apostolate and their fundamental contribution to the establishment of the early Christian communities.