I assumed the FR name of this glorious saint knowing only his life and death exhibited great courage--- and that his early post Apostolic writings spoke with authority on the Eucharist,the Trinity,the Theotokos, Bishops,and other matters of importance.
The icon of his martyrdom with the lions is displayed in most Eastern Orthodox churches.He is venerated in both East and West.
Holy Saint Ignatius pray to God for us!
I was going to make refence to "your screen namesake"when I pinged you but I forgot about it! I heard another legend about Ignatius of Antioch,maybe you did too. I heard or read some years ago that in the bible when Our Lord took a small child in his arms,after the apostles tried to shoo the children away - that child was supposed to have been St.Ignatius.
I love him for what he endured.To suffer the way he did,at such an advanced age and more than willingly.He really wanted to die a martyr for Christ.