Pontian

About Pontian

Pontian was Pope from 230-235 AD. He confirmed the condemnation of Origen by an Alexandrian synod and worked to heal the schism caused by Hippolytus. In 235, Emperor Maximinus Thrax began persecuting Christian leaders. Both Pontian and the antipope Hippolytus were arrested and exiled to the brutal mines of Sardinia. To allow successors to be elected, both men abdicated—Pontian being the first pope to resign. In exile, the two rivals reconciled. Both died as martyrs in Sardinia, their bodies later returned to Rome. Pontian's abdication and reconciliation with Hippolytus demonstrate heroic humility and desire for Church unity.