#saintcallistus

Happy Feast Day

Pope Saint Callistus I

Died: 222

Feast Day: October 14

Patronage: Cemetery workers

Pope Saint Callistus I (Callixtus) We learn about his life from his theological enemy, St. Hippolytus, who was enraged by the mercy shown to sinners by Callistus. Callistus was a former slave who was convicted of hard labor after two of his master’s banks that he was in charge of, failed because of his incompetence. Callistus was freed by the initiative of Pope St. Victor I. He was then ordained a deacon and caretaker of the Roman Cemetery. In 219, he was elected Pope. As Pope he promoted mercy, openness and absolution of sinners. He was martyred by an anti-Catholic mob.