Saint of the day, October 26
Among the earliest successors of St. Peter, St. Evaristus is remembered for his service to the Church, even as much of his life remains unknown.
October 26 - St. Evaristus
Born: First century (exact date unknown)
Died: Around A.D. 108
Nationality: Traditionally believed to be Greek
Vocation: Pope
St. Evaristus became pope during the early years of Christianity, when the Church was still growing throughout the Roman Empire. He succeeded St. Clement I and served during the reign of Emperor Trajan, around the beginning of the second century.
Tradition holds that Evaristus was of Greek-Jewish descent and that his family had roots in Bethlehem. Although little is known about his upbringing, he is remembered among the first bishops of Rome who followed St. Peter.
During his approximately eight-year papacy, Evaristus is credited in later accounts with assigning priests to different Christian communities in Rome and appointing deacons to assist them. Historians have questioned these accounts, leaving the details of his ministry uncertain.
Tradition also holds that Evaristus died a martyr and was buried near the tomb of St. Peter, although his martyrdom has not been historically confirmed.
St. Evaristus reminds us that serving God faithfully does not always mean leaving behind a well-known story. His place in the Church's history encourages us to embrace our own responsibilities with humility and trust in Christ.
St. Evaristus, pray for us!
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