October 14

Saint Callistus I

Optional memorial

Former slave who became bishop of Rome and welcomed repentant sinners back

Callistus was a slave in Rome in the late second century. Most of what we know comes from his rival Hippolytus, who disliked him, so the story needs care. His Christian master put him in charge of a bank; the money was lost, Callistus fled, and he was caught at the harbour after leaping into the sea. Later he was sent to the mines of Sardinia and freed around 190 with other Christian prisoners.

Pope Zephyrinus made him a deacon and put him in charge of a Christian cemetery on the Appian Way, still called the Catacombs of St Callistus. Around 217 he became bishop of Rome himself. He readmitted repentant sinners to communion and accepted marriages between free women and slaves, which Roman law refused to recognise. Hippolytus called this laxity and broke with him.

Callistus died in 222, by tradition as a martyr, though the details are uncertain. He is remembered as a pastor who knew from his own life what a second chance means.

So instead, you ought to forgive and comfort him, so that he will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow. Therefore I urge you to reaffirm your love for him.

2 Corinthians 2:7–8 · BSB

A prayer

God of mercy, you lifted Callistus from slavery and prison and made him a shepherd of your people, ready to welcome back those who had fallen. Give us hearts that do not give up on anyone, and teach us to offer others the same second chance you so freely give to us. Amen.