About Today for

August 13

Saints Pontian, Pope, and Hippolytus, Priest, Martyrs

Optional Memorial

St. Pontian was Bishop of Rome from 230 – 236 A.D. St. Hippolytus, a prominent theologian, was a theological opponent and rival of several of Pontian’s predecessors and of Pontian himself. Hippolytus criticized them regarding their understanding of the Trinity and what he considered their lax policies regarding penance. When Maximinus I became emperor in 235 he persecuted heads of the Church. He banished both men to the island of Sardinia. When he was sent to Sardinia, St. Pontian resigned as Bishop of Rome so someone else could be elected. St. Hippolytus reconciled with Rome. Both men suffered inhumane treatment and death in the mines of Sardinia and they are celebrated together as holy martyrs in the Church. Pope Fabian (236-250) had their remains brought back from Sardinia and buried in Rome. [1][2]

Written by Sarah Ciotti
Reviewed by Fr. Hugh Feiss, OSB, STD
[1] Catholicpedia: The Original Catholic Encyclopedia (1917) for iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch. s.v. “Pope St. Pontian. ”
[2] Catholicpedia: The Original Catholic Encyclopedia (1917) for iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch. s.v. “St. Hippolytus of Rome.”
Note: Optional Memorials and Commemorations are optional celebrations and, at present, we do not include content specific to these special days. This “About Today” is provided so that you can celebrate these Saints as you worship Christ.