Readings Psalm 89 * Psalm 97 * Joshua 3:1–17 * Acts 9:1–22 * Augsburg Confession, XXII CommemorationToday we commemorate Irenaeus of Lyons, Pastor*. After studying in Rome, Irenaeus became a pastor in Lyons, France; during an absence from Lyons, a persecution arose against Christians and martyred Irenaeus’ bishop. Upon returning to Lyons, Irenaeus himself became bishop. As a writer, Irenaeus defended the Christian faith, and of particular note is a work of his against heresies — particularly Gnosticism.