Catholic Church commemorates Saint Callistus I

The Catholic Church commemorates Saint Callistus I, a pope and martyr, on October 14.

Born in the late second century, Callistus lived as a slave in Rome before being sent to work in the mines of Sardinia following accusations of theft and fraud. After receiving amnesty, he returned to Rome, where Pope Zephyrinus appointed him to manage the Christian cemeteries. Zephyrinus also ordained him as a priest and relied on him as a close advisor.

Callistus was elected pope in 217. During his papacy, he defended the faith against heresies and allowed for the absolution of various sins, including adultery and murder, provided the penitents performed penance. He is also credited with founding the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere.

Callistus died a martyr in 222 in Trastevere. According to historical accounts, he was persecuted by heretics, subjected to starvation and beatings, and ultimately killed by being thrown into a well. He is recognized as the first pope, after Saint Peter, to be included in the list of early Church martyrs.