Justin, philosopher and martyr, was born of pagan parents in Nablus, Samaria at the beginning of the second century. Having studied Platonist philosophy, he converted to Christianity at the age of about thirty-three. As a lay apologist, he travelled around preaching the faith, defending it from attacks and writing works such as the Apology and Dialogue with Trypho. He also opened a school in Rome in which public debates were held. Justin was beheaded along with several companions during the reign of Marcus Aurelius around the year 165. – CTS New Daily Roman Missal 2012, p 2726; Christian Prayer 1990, p 1141
