Born
c. 334
Birthplace
Rome
Pope from
December 384
Pope until
26 November 399
Died
26 November 399
Who he was
Siricius, a Roman, the son of Tiburtius, served the Church from boyhood, as lector and then deacon under Pope Liberius. He was elected unanimously in December 384 to succeed St Damasus.
What he is remembered for
His letter of 385 to Bishop Himerius of Tarragona, answering questions on baptism, penance and clerical life, is the oldest papal decretal to survive complete. He held synods to strengthen Church discipline, condemned Jovinian's attack on fasting and consecrated celibacy, and, with his friend St Ambrose, defended the perpetual virginity of Mary. His feast is 26 November; Benedict XIV added his name to the Roman Martyrology.
He is honoured by the Church as Saint. Read his page in the dictionary of saints.
Sources
All popes · Home · All saints