Pope Saint Callistus I

Biography

Pope Saint Callistus I, also known as Callixtus I or Calixtus I, was born into slavery and served as a slave to Carpophorus, a Christian who was a member of the household of Caesar. Carpophorus entrusted a significant amount of money to Callistus and tasked him with opening a bank. Unfortunately, the bank ended up going broke due to several borrowers refusing to repay their loans. Fearing personal blame and punishment, Callistus fled, but he was captured and returned to his owner. During this time, some of the depositors who believed that Callistus had stolen and hidden the money begged for his life. However, their suspicions were unfounded, as Callistus was not a thief but a victim of circumstances. Despite this, he was sentenced to work in the tin mines. Interestingly, according to Roman law, ownership of Callistus was transferred from Carpophorus to the state. Eventually, Callistus and several other Christians were ransomed out of their sentence, and he became a free man. Once he was freed, Pope Zephyrinus appointed Callistus as the overseer of the Roman public burial grounds, which are still known today as the Cemetery of Saint Callistus. He also held the position of archdeacon. In due course, Callistus was elected as the 16th Pope. Unfortunately, much of what is known about Pope Saint Callistus I has been passed down through his critics, including an anti-Pope of that era. He was frequently accused of heresy for decisions that included allowing sinners who had repented and done penance to return to Communion, as well as proclaiming that differences in economic class should not be a barrier to marriage. These teachings put him at odds with Roman civil law, but he firmly believed that in matters concerning the Church and the sacraments, Church law took precedence over civil law. In reality, his teachings were in line with the orthodox Christian tradition that has been upheld for centuries, and continue to be upheld in the present day. Pope Saint Callistus I was martyred during the persecutions under Emperor Alexander Severus. Though legends claim that he was thrown down a well with a millstone around his neck, there is no solid evidence to support this account. He is often depicted in art as a pope with a millstone either on him or nearby. He was canonized as a saint in the Pre-Congregation era and is celebrated on October 14th. As a patron, Pope Saint Callistus I is revered as the protector of cemetery workers. In summary, Pope Saint Callistus I was a former slave who rose to prominence in the early Christian Church. Despite facing accusations of heresy, he remained steadfast in his commitment to upholding the teachings of the Church. His martyrdom during the persecutions of Emperor Alexander Severus serves as a testament to his unwavering faith and dedication to the Christian community.