St Sixtus I

Who he was

Sixtus, in the oldest records Xystus, followed St Alexander and led the Church of Rome for about ten years in the reign of the Emperor Hadrian. He was a Roman, and his father was named Pastor.

What he is remembered for

The Liber Pontificalis credits him with rules that only sacred ministers may touch the sacred vessels and that the priest says the Sanctus with the people. Old lists give him the title of martyr, and he was buried beside St Peter in the Vatican. 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. Sixtus I
• The Holy See: list of the Supreme Pontiffs