St Boniface I

Who he was

Boniface, a Roman priest, the son of the priest Jocundus, was elderly and much respected for his charity and learning when he was elected, against his will, at the end of 418. On the same day a faction chose the archdeacon Eulalius, and Rome was in turmoil for fifteen weeks until the Emperor Honorius recognised Boniface.

What he is remembered for

He supported St Augustine against the Pelagians, and Augustine dedicated a work to him in thanks. He defended the authority of his see over Illyricum against Constantinople. He was buried on the Via Salaria near the tomb of St Felicitas, to whom he had built an oratory; his feast is 25 October.

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

Sources

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