Pope Anterus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Pope Saint Anterus |
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|---|---|
| Bishop of Rome | |
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| Church | Catholic Church Orthodox Church |
| Papacy began | 21 November 235 |
| Papacy ended | 3 January 236 |
| Predecessor | Pontian |
| Successor | Fabian |
| Personal details | |
| Born | Petilia Policastro, Calabria, Italy, Roman Empire |
| Died | 3 January 236 Rome, Italy, Roman Empire |
| Sainthood | |
| Feast day | 3 January 18 August |
Pope Anterus was the leader of the Catholic Church, known as the Bishop of Rome, for a short time. He served from November 21, 235, until his death on January 3, 236.
Early Life and Background
Anterus was born in a place called Petilia Policastro in Calabria, Italy. His father's name was Romulus. Many people believe he might have been from Greece. His name, Anterus, also suggests he could have been a freed slave. This means he was once a slave but later gained his freedom.
Becoming Pope
Anterus became Pope after Pope Pontian. Pope Pontian had been sent away from Rome to an island called Sardinia. Anterus's time as Pope was very short, lasting only about 43 days. During his time, he appointed one new bishop for the city of Fondi.
His Death and Legacy
Some historians think Anterus might have been a martyr. A martyr is someone who dies for their beliefs. They believe this because he asked for stricter rules about collecting records of martyrs. These records were carefully gathered by special notaries appointed by Pope Clement I.
However, other historians are not so sure. They think it's more likely he died naturally. This happened during a time when Christians were being persecuted by the Roman Emperor Maximinus Thracian.
Anterus was buried in the special burial place for popes. This place is called the papal crypt in the Catacomb of Callixtus, located on the Appian Way in Rome. In 1854, his burial site was found. There were some broken pieces of a Greek writing on his tombstone. Only the Greek word for "bishop" could still be read.
Later, in 1595, his remains were moved to the Church of Saint Sylvester in Rome. This happened when Pope Clement VIII rebuilt the church.
Pope Anterus is remembered by the Catholic Church on January 3. The Russian Orthodox Church also remembers him on August 18.
See also
In Spanish: Antero para niños
- List of popes
- List of Catholic saints
