St Celestine I

Who he was

Celestine, son of Priscus, was a deacon of Rome under Innocent I and a friend and correspondent of St Augustine. He was elected without opposition in 422 and led the Church for nearly ten years in troubled times, firm but gentle in upholding the Church's rules.

What he is remembered for

He condemned the teaching of Nestorius, Bishop of Constantinople, on the Person of Christ, sent legates to the Council of Ephesus, and defended St Augustine's memory after his death. For Ireland he is especially remembered: in 431 he sent Palladius as bishop to the Irish who believed in Christ, and tradition holds that shortly before his death he gave St Patrick his mission. His feast is 6 April.

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

Sources

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