Pope Evaristus facts for kids

Pope Evaristus was an early leader of the Christian Church. He served as the Bishop of Rome from about the year 99 AD until his death around 107 AD. He is also known as Aristus. Many Christian groups, like the Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church, consider him a saint. It's thought that John the Apostle died while Evaristus was Pope. This event marked the end of the time known as the Apostolic Age, which was when the first followers of Jesus were still alive.

Who Was Pope Evaristus?

Evaristus was born in Bethlehem. His father was a Jewish man named Judah. Evaristus himself was Greek. He became Pope during the time of the Roman emperor Trajan. He took over from Pope Clement I as the leader of the Church in Rome.

His Role as Pope

Pope Evaristus made some important decisions for the early Church. He divided the city of Rome into different areas. He gave these areas to priests to manage. He also chose seven deacons. Deacons are helpers who support the bishop in preaching and other duties.

One important rule Evaristus made was about marriage. He said that marriages should be public. They should also have a blessing from a priest. This rule followed an old tradition from the first followers of Jesus.

How Long Did He Serve?

A historian named Eusebius wrote about Evaristus. He said that Evaristus was the Bishop of Rome for eight years. He died in the 12th year that Emperor Trajan was in charge. This means he likely died around 107 AD.

His Burial Place

Pope Evaristus was buried in Rome. His tomb is near the body of Saint Peter. This is in the Saint Peter's tomb under the famous Saint Peter's Basilica.

Was He a Martyr?

Some old books say that Pope Evaristus was a martyr. A martyr is someone who dies for their faith. However, the official list of saints, called the Roman Martyrology, does not call him a martyr. He is listed as a saint, and his feast day is celebrated on October 26.

See also

• List of Catholic saints
• List of popes