Callixtus I

Saint Callixtus I was born in Rome, though the year is unknown. As a young slave he was entrusted with funds collected by Christians for widows and orphans, but after a disastrous loss he suffered arrest and harsh punishment, including forced labor in the mines of Sardinia. Freed through the intercession of Christians close to the imperial court, he returned weakened in health yet steadfast in faith. Ordained a deacon by Pope Zephyrinus, Callixtus was appointed guardian of the Christian cemetery along the Appian Way. This burial place—later known as the Catacombs of St. Callixtus—became a sacred resting place for many early popes and a lasting witness to the Church’s hope in the resurrection. Succeeding Zephyrinus as Bishop of Rome around 218, he guided the Church through controversy, defending the faith and emphasizing God’s mercy through absolution, even for grave sins. Callixtus died a martyr around 222 or 223, likely during a violent uprising in Rome. He is honored as patron of cemetery workers and is associated with La Pobla Llarga. His feast day is October 14.