Pope Saint Pontian

Biography

Pope Saint Pontian, also known as Pontianus or Ponziano, was the 18th pope of the Catholic Church, chosen to lead in the year 230. He was born in Rome, Italy, and little is known about his early life or family background, except that he was the son of Calpurnius. During his papacy, Pope Saint Pontian played a significant role in resolving a schism within the Church. There was a division caused by a group of followers of the theologian Hippolytus, who had declared himself as an antipope. Pope Saint Pontian worked tirelessly to reconcile the schismatics with the Church and eventually succeeded, bringing unity and harmony within the Catholic community. However, his efforts for the Church didn't go unnoticed by the Roman authorities. Emperor Maximinus Thrax, who ruled during this time, perceived Pope Saint Pontian as a threat and ordered his exile along with Saint Hippolytus to the island of Sardinia. Both saints were sentenced to labor in the harsh conditions of the mines. Recognizing the need for a new leader to guide the Church in his absence, Pope Saint Pontian made a courageous decision. On 28 September 235, he voluntarily abdicated the papacy, allowing for the election of a new pope who could effectively shepherd the faithful. This selfless act demonstrated his dedication to the well-being of the Church and its continuous leadership. Sadly, the difficult conditions in the Sardinian mines took a toll on Pope Saint Pontian's health. He suffered severe mistreatment, which ultimately led to his death in 235. His body was later brought back to Rome by Pope Saint Fabian, who succeeded him as the next pope, and he was laid to rest in the catacomb of Callistus. Pope Saint Pontian was canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church, although the exact date of his canonization is not known due to it occurring before the formal establishment of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints. His feast days are celebrated on 19 November, as stated in the Roman Martyrology, and on 13 August, according to the Depositiones martyrum of 354. In recognition of his strong faith and endurance in the face of persecution, Pope Saint Pontian is revered as a patron saint of Carbonia and Montaldo Scarampi, both towns in Italy. He serves as an inspiration for Catholics worldwide, reminding them of the importance of unity, self-sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to the Church's mission.