St Mark

Who he was

Mark, a Roman, the son of Priscus according to the Liber Pontificalis, succeeded St Sylvester and reigned for less than nine months in 336. He may be the Roman cleric named Mark to whom Constantine wrote, with Pope Miltiades, about the Donatist dispute.

What he is remembered for

He founded the church of San Marco in Rome and a cemetery church over the Catacomb of Balbina, where he was buried. He is said to have confirmed the Bishop of Ostia's right to consecrate the new pope. His feast is 7 October.

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

Sources

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