John IV

Pope John IV

Pope John IV, born in Iadera, Dalmatia, served as the bishop of Rome from December 24, 640, until his death on October 12, 642. He was considered a "very cultured man" and held the important role of archdeacon of the Roman Church prior to his election. His papacy occurred during a period of theological controversy and external pressures.

Papacy and Theological Stance

During his time as pope-elect, John IV wrote to the clergy of Ireland and Scotland concerning the correct observance of Easter and warned them against the Pelagian heresy. A significant act of his pontificate was the condemnation of Monothelitism as heresy. He also addressed Emperor Constantine III, defending the theological position of his predecessor, Pope Honorius I, against accusations of Monothelitism, asserting that Honorius's statements on one will in Jesus meant only the absence of contrary wills.

Efforts in Dalmatia

Troubles in his native Dalmatia, exacerbated by Slavic invasions, deeply concerned Pope John IV. He dispatched Abbot Martin with substantial sums of money to the region to facilitate the redemption of captives. As churches had been destroyed, John IV had the relics of important Dalmatian saints brought to Rome. He subsequently erected an oratory in their honor, adorned with mosaics, in an effort to convert the Slavs in Dalmatia and Istria to Christianity. According to tradition, he also played a key role, with Abbot Martin, in establishing the Catholic Church in Croatia.