Hierarch Vucolus of Smyrna

St. Vucolus of Smyrna was a disciple of the holy Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian, who, according to church tradition, himself consecrated him as the first bishop of the city of Smyrna, Asia Minor — one of the seven Churches mentioned in the Book of Revelation. He governed the see of Smyrna at the turn of the 1st-2nd centuries, working to establish and spread the Christian faith in the city. St. Vucolus is especially known for having raised and instructed in the faith his successor — Hieromartyr Polycarp of Smyrna, later one of the most eminent Apostolic Fathers and likewise a disciple of the Apostle John. He died at a great age, having passed his see on to Polycarp. His exact dates are not established.