Agapetus I
Pope Agapetus I served as bishop of Rome from May 535 until his death in April 536. He is known for his diplomatic mission to Constantinople, where he unsuccessfully attempted to dissuade Emperor Justinian I from invading the Ostrogoth kingdom. During his time in Constantinople, Agapetus also deposed the patriarch Anthimus I and consecrated his successor, Menas.
Key Facts
- ›Born in Rome to Gordianus, a Roman priest.
- ›Father may have been related to Popes Felix III and Gregory I.
- ›Ordained as a deacon perhaps as early as 502.
- ›Elevated from archdeacon to pope in 535.
- ›His father, Gordianus, was slain during riots in the days of Pope Symmachus.
- ›His mission to Constantinople was at the behest of King Theodahad of the Ostrogoths.
Agapitus I
- Traveled To Constantinople To Negotiate With Emperor Justinian I.
- Deposed Patriarch Anthimus I of Constantinople.
- Personally Consecrated Menas of Constantinople As the New Patriarch.
- Burned the Anathema Boniface Ii Had Pronounced Against Dioscurus.
- Confirmed Decrees of the Council of Carthage Regarding Converts From Arianism.
- Ordered A New Trial For Bishop Contumeliosus of Riez.
King Theodahad of the Ostrogoths, Emperor Justinian I, Empress Theodora, Anthimus I, Menas of Constantinople, Pope Symmachus, Pope Felix Iii, Pope Gregory I, Cassiodorus, Belisarius, Boniface Ii, Dioscurus, Contumeliosus, Caesarius of Arles, Reparatus, Bishop of Carthage
About Agapetus I
Pope Agapetus I, born between 489 and 490 and died on April 22, 536, served as the bishop of Rome from May 13, 535, until his death. His pontificate, though brief, was marked by significant diplomatic and ecclesiastical events.
Life and Historical Context
Born in Rome, Agapetus was the son of Gordianus, a Roman priest who lost his life during riots in the era of Pope Symmachus. The name of his father may indicate a familial link to Popes Felix III and Gregory I. Agapetus himself may have been ordained as a deacon as early as 502. He was elevated to the papacy from the position of archdeacon in 535.
Major Contributions and Events
Agapetus' most notable act was his diplomatic mission to Constantinople in February 536. He traveled at the behest of King Theodahad of the Ostrogoths to persuade Emperor Justinian I to halt a planned Byzantine invasion of the Ostrogoth kingdom. Despite his efforts, Justinian declined, as preparations for the invasion were too advanced.
While in the Byzantine capital, Agapetus addressed a significant religious matter: the disputed patriarchate of Constantinople. He deposed Patriarch Anthimus I, who had been installed despite opposition from orthodox clergy. Agapetus demanded a written profession of faith from Anthimus and his return to his former see; upon refusal, he deposed him. Agapetus then personally consecrated Anthimus' successor, Menas of Constantinople. This action was a significant assertion of papal authority.
Agapetus also played a role in the founding of Cassiodorus' monastery at Vivarium and confirmed decrees from the Council of Carthage concerning converts from Arianism. He accepted an appeal from Bishop Contumeliosus of Riez, ordering a new trial for him.
Four of Agapetus' letters survive from this period, including two addressed to Justinian, one to the bishops of Africa, and one to the Bishop of Carthage. These letters touch upon theological issues, including the refusal to acknowledge the Orders of the Arians.
Veneration and Legacy
Agapetus I was canonized in both the Catholic and Orthodox traditions. His feast day is observed on April 22, the day of his death. His remains were returned to Rome and interred in St. Peter's Basilica. The 'apsidal Hall of the Library of Pope Agapitus I' on the Clivus Scauri is a notable archaeological site associated with him.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Pope Agapetus I's pontificate?
Pope Agapetus I served as bishop of Rome from May 13, 535, until his death on April 22, 536. His pontificate lasted for just over ten months.
What was Pope Agapetus I's most significant diplomatic mission?
Agapetus I traveled to Constantinople at the request of King Theodahad of the Ostrogoths. He sought to persuade Emperor Justinian I to cancel a Byzantine invasion of the Ostrogoth kingdom, but he was unsuccessful.
What religious actions did Agapetus I take in Constantinople?
While in Constantinople, Agapetus I deposed Patriarch Anthimus I, who had left his episcopal see. Agapetus then personally consecrated Anthimus' successor, Menas of Constantinople.
What is Pope Agapetus I known for in terms of his family background?
Agapetus I was born in Rome. His father was Gordianus, a Roman priest who was killed during riots. His father's name suggests a possible familial connection to Popes Felix III and Gregory I.
Is Pope Agapetus I considered a saint?
Yes, Agapetus I has been canonized in both the Catholic and Orthodox traditions. His feast day is celebrated on April 22, the anniversary of his death.
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