Hyginus

About Hyginus

Hyginus was the ninth Bishop of Rome (Pope), serving from about 138-142 AD. A philosopher from Athens before becoming pope, Hyginus faced the early Gnostic heresies of Valentinus and Cerdo who came to Rome during his pontificate. He opposed their teachings, defending orthodox Christianity. Some traditions credit Hyginus with establishing godparents at baptism and organizing the hierarchy of the clergy. He was likely martyred and was buried on Vatican Hill. His opposition to Gnosticism helped preserve apostolic teaching during a critical period when heretical ideas threatened to distort Christianity.