Porcius Festus
Archimandrite Nikifor’s Biblical Encyclopedia
(Acts 24:27–26:32)—the Roman procurator who succeeded Felix, probably about AD 60. Soon after his arrival Paul’s accusers renewed their case. Festus offered a hearing at Jerusalem, but Paul, fearing an unjust transfer and exercising his right as a Roman citizen, appealed to Caesar (Acts 25:9–12). Festus then presented the case to Herod Agrippa II and Bernice; Paul’s defense before them occupies Acts 26. Josephus describes Festus as acting vigorously against disorder. He died after a comparatively short administration, probably in AD 62.