Pope Saint Pontian served as the head of the Catholic Church from 230 to 235 AD.
Interestingly, he was the first pope in history to step down from his role.
Born likely in Rome, he took over the leadership from St. Urban I. During his time as the pope, he faced challenges from heretical views known as Origenism. He also had to deal with a schism fueled by supporters of St. Hippolytus, who considered him an ‘antipope’.
In 235, Emperor Maximinus I Thrax intensified his persecution of the Christian Church. As a result, Pontian was arrested by Roman authorities. He and his rival, St. Hippolytus, were both banished to the brutal mines of Sardinia.
Realizing the importance of a stable leadership for the Church, Pontian made a historic decision to resign. This ensured that the Church could elect a new leader in his absence.
On the island of Sardinia, the two former adversaries found common ground. Pontian and Hippolytus reconciled before both meeting their end as martyrs.
Photo credit: Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons
Blessed.
Pope Saint Pontian, pray for us.
Pope St. Pontian, for the Church.
Pope Saint Pontian, pray for us!
Pope Saint Pontian, we pray for our Pope Papa Francis.
Pope Saint Pontian, pray for us. Our Lady of Fatima, pray for us. O my Jesus, forgive us our sins, save us from the fires of hell. Lead all souls to Heaven, especially those most in need of Your mercy. Amen.
Pope Saint Pontian, and Saint Hippolytus, please intercede for all catholics to find common ground and reconcile under the breath of the Holy Spirit; to unite in prayer for Pope Francis and the healing of the Catholic Church; that together, as brethen in Christ, may we be taught, led and protected by Our Lord Jesus, away from evil, towards each other, and shed light, forgiveness and love to the world, through Our Lady, the Blessed Virgin Mary, with Saint Joseph, the Terror of Demons, and by the life-giving power and invincible grace of the Eucharist. Thank you for your spiritual endeavors to help bring humanity back to Life. Amen.
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