Cornelius

Who they were

Cornelius, a Roman, was elected Pope in 251 after the see had been vacant during the persecution of Decius, a man known for faith, justice and kindness. Novatian refused to accept him, had himself consecrated antipope and split the Roman Church, accusing Cornelius of being too lenient with the lapsed who wished to return. Supported by St Cyprian from Carthage, Cornelius held firm.

Plague struck Rome and a new persecution came under Gallus. Cornelius was exiled to Centumcellae (Civitavecchia) and died there; he was buried in the catacombs of St Callixtus.

The miracles

There was never a formal cause: Cornelius has been honoured as a martyr since the third century. He shares his memorial with St Cyprian on 16 September; both are named in the Martyrology of St Jerome.

Why that counted as sanctity

Cornelius kept the door of the Church open to sinners who repented, against those who would shut it, and died in exile for Christ.