St Stephen I

Who he was

Stephen, a Roman, the son of Jovius, was archdeacon to St Lucius I and succeeded him in 254. He dealt with appeals from bishops in Gaul and Spain in the aftermath of the persecutions, and sent help to the churches of Syria and Arabia.

What he is remembered for

He is remembered above all for defending the validity of baptism given by heretics, against St Cyprian and many bishops of Africa and Asia, who wanted such converts baptised again; the Church followed Stephen's teaching. The Liber Pontificalis says he died a martyr, though that is doubtful. He was buried in the Catacomb of St Callistus.

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

Sources

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