The Saints: Pope Innocent I

Died 417/ Feast - March 12

The only personal detail known about this pope is his birthplace, Albano, Italy. He succeeded Pope St. Anastasius I in 401, and was seen as a capable leader during his 16-year pontificate. He asserted the primacy of Rome among all sees and saw the pope as universal arbiter, especially concerning doctrine. He told bishops in France and Spain that “greater causes” should be referred to Rome, promoted Rome’s example of celibacy and confirmed the African bishops’ condemnation of Pelagianism. He was pope when the Goths sacked Rome.             © 2008 CNS               © 2006 CNS      © 2002 CN      © 2007 CNS