Although there are many remedies to the poisons of bad example, the saints stand as role-models of heroic sanctity, holiness, and fortitude. They are unique and unrepeatable persons of excellence for every age. St. Polycarp is one such person.
Martyrdom
St. Justin Martyr
The Roman prefect Rusticus, his hate-filled eyes fixed intently on St. Justin, said: “Do you have an idea that you will go up to heaven to receive some suitable rewards?” Justin responded: “It is not an idea that I have; it is something I know well and hold to be most certain.”