Polycarp’s story originates in Philippi during the middle of the first century and concludes after the middle of the second century. The story involves birth, love, travel, religion, and death. Polycarp’s father Augustus was killed while serving in the Roman Army. His mother, Dianna, was a strong willed woman and didn’t remarry. She and her attendant, Rachael, raised Polycarp and his three sisters. Polycarp became a priest and a professor. He was a student of John’s and spent time with him in Ephesus and later analyzed his writings. He moved to Smyrna and became The Bishop of Smyrna. He lived an exciting life performing research and teaching. He emphasized apostolic succession and the correctness of the scriptures. He died a martyr.