The Life and Legacy of Saint Aquila: From Jewish Tentmaker to Christian Martyr

Saint Aquila, also known as Aquila of Sinope, was a significant figure in early Christianity and is venerated as a saint by the Catholic, Orthodox, and Anglican Churches. He is honored as the patron saint of weavers, tanners, and leather workers.

Aquila was born in the city of Sinope in the northern region of Asia Minor, which is now modern-day Turkey. He was Jewish and became a tentmaker by trade. According to the Acts of the Apostles, Aquila and his wife Priscilla, who was also a tentmaker, moved from Rome to Corinth to escape Emperor Claudius' edict expelling Jews from the city in AD 49.

Aquila and Priscilla were prominent figures in the early Christian community and worked alongside the Apostle Paul. They often held church gatherings in their own house. They had a longtime friendship with Paul and provided him with hospitality and helped him in his missionary work. The three of them worked and lived together for years. Aquila is mentioned several times in the New Testament, including in Acts 18:2-3, where he is referred to as "a Jew from Pontus, lately come from Italy with his wife Priscilla."

Aquila and Priscilla are credited with helping to found the Christian community in Corinth and played a vital role in the establishment of the Church in Ephesus. They are also mentioned in the letters of Saint Paul to the Romans, Corinthians, and Timothy.

According to tradition, Aquila and Priscilla were martyred for their faith, although the exact circumstances of their deaths are not known. 

Saint Aquila's feast day is celebrated on February 13th in the Catholic Church. He was canonized as a saint, along with Saint Priscilla, in the early Church. 

Saint Aquila's life and legacy reminds us of the importance of reaching out to those in need, providing hospitality to strangers, and working tirelessly to spread the Gospel message.