[Syncro]

Here's how I know there was: Ignatius of Antioch, who was the third bishop of Antioch after St. Peter, called himself the "bishop of the Catholic Church in Syria" in AD 110.

Thank you for posting that.

Can you link us to where he called himself "bishop of the Catholic Church in Syria?" I would like to see the original quote from history.

Thanks

[Campion]

He calls himself the “bishop of Syria” in Romans chapter 2. He uses the term “Catholic Church” (or “catholic church” if you prefer — the original Greek text had no capitals) in several places, most notably in Smyrnaeans. I recalled a quote where he connected the two, but maybe my memory is faulty. I’d have to consult my books at home to be sure.