Sixtus II

About Sixtus II

Sixtus II was Pope for less than a year (257-258) but is remembered as a martyr and peacemaker. He reconciled Rome with the African and Eastern churches over the baptism controversy, healing the rift created under his predecessor. Sixtus's pontificate coincided with Emperor Valerian's persecution. On August 6, 258, while celebrating Mass in the Catacomb of Praetextatus, Sixtus was arrested along with four deacons. They were immediately executed—Sixtus likely beheaded while seated in his episcopal chair. Four days later, his deacon Lawrence was also martyred. Cyprian of Carthage, writing shortly after, reported Sixtus's martyrdom and the edict requiring all bishops, priests, and deacons to be executed. Sixtus's courage in continuing to celebrate the sacraments despite mortal danger, and his peaceful death, made him a highly venerated martyr. He was buried in the Catacomb of Callistus.