Fabian

Saint Fabian was born in Rome, of a noble family, though little else is known of his early years. In 236, after Pope Anterus died, Fabian came to the city from the countryside as the Church gathered to choose a new bishop of Rome. Tradition says a dove suddenly descended upon him, and the faithful recognized in this sign the Holy Spirit’s unexpected choice; Fabian was acclaimed pope. His fourteen-year pontificate was marked by peace with the imperial authorities and by a healing of divisions within the Roman Church, including the reconciliation surrounding Pontian and Hippolytus. Fabian strengthened the Church’s pastoral care by organizing Rome into districts served by deacons and by appointing assistants to preserve the accounts of the martyrs, honoring their witness. He also encouraged missionary outreach, sending bishops to preach the Gospel in Gaul. When Emperor Decius renewed persecution, Fabian became one of its first victims, dying a martyr in 250, likely in prison. He is honored as patron of Arres de Jos, Bulliana, Civitella Paganico, Fiamignano, Fiavé, Montottone, Rancio Valcuvia, Valsinni, Viarago, and Villorba. His feast day is January 20.