St Pius I

Who he was

Pius was the ninth successor of St Peter in Rome, according to St Irenaeus's list. The Liber Pontificalis says he came from Aquileia and that his father was named Rufinus, though this may be a guess. An ancient note says his brother was Hermas, author of the early Christian book 'The Shepherd'.

What he is remembered for

In his time Rome was a meeting place for Christian teachers both sound and unsound: Marcion was cut off from the Church, while St Justin Martyr was teaching the faith in the city. His feast is 11 July.

He is honoured by the Church as Saint. Read his page in the dictionary of saints.

Sources

• Catholic Encyclopedia (1907-14): Pope St. Pius I
• The Holy See: list of the Supreme Pontiffs