Callixtus I

Who they were

Callixtus, slave, deacon and Pope, is known largely from the hostile writings of his rival Hippolytus. Born probably in Trastevere to a Christian family, he was a slave of a Christian master, Carpophorus, who trusted him with his money; he set up a bank that failed, losing others' deposits.

After many trials he became a deacon and organised the first cemetery of the Roman Church, with the Crypt of the Popes, today the Catacombs of St Callixtus. As Pope he was merciful to repentant sinners, against those who wanted a Church of the pure. Taken prisoner, he was thrown into a well and stoned on 14 October 222 near Trastevere, and buried on the Via Aurelia.

The miracles

There was never a formal cause: Callixtus has been honoured as a martyr since the third century. His body was later moved to Santa Maria in Trastevere.

Why that counted as sanctity

A slave who had failed became a Pope who forgave, keeping the Church's door open to sinners, and died a martyr.

Connected on this site

• Fortunatus of Casei Saint
  “However, his relics were situated in the catacombs of Pope Callixtus I in Rome until 1746, when Cardinal Guadagni, Roman vicar to Benedict XIV, re-exhumed and displayed Fortunatus’ relics in the collegiate church of Santa Maria in Via Lata in Rome.” — Wikipedia
• Urban I Saint
  “He was born in Rome and succeeded Callixtus I, who had been martyred.” — Wikipedia
• Zephyrinus Saint
  “Upon his death on 20 December 217, he was succeeded by his principal advisor, Callixtus I.” — Wikipedia