Fabian of Rome

About Fabian of Rome

Fabian was Pope from 236-250 AD and a martyr. His election was miraculous: a layman present when bishops gathered to elect a new pope, Fabian was chosen after a dove descended and settled on his head—reminiscent of Christ's baptism. As pope, Fabian reorganized the Roman church, dividing it into seven districts each supervised by a deacon, and appointed subdeacons to collect martyrs' acts and stories. He improved catacomb administration and promoted veneration of martyrs. Cyprian described Fabian as "an incomparable man, the glory of whose death corresponds to the holiness of his life." When Emperor Decius launched systematic persecution in 250, Fabian was among the first martyred, beheaded on January 20, 250. His courage and excellent administration during years of peace prepared the Roman church to endure the severe persecution that followed his death.