Zeferinus
Zeferinus , the first Pope of the 3rd century, assumed leadership of the Catholic Church in 199 AD, succeeding Victor I. Originally from Rome, he faced significant theological challenges during his pontificate, including conflicts with figures such as Tertullian and the Patripasian heresy, which denied the Holy Trinity. His critic, Saint Hippolytus, described him as simple and dominated by his advisor, Callisto. During his papacy, Zeferinus began the construction of the catacombs of Callisto on the Appian Way and established new liturgical practices, such as communion for the faithful after the age of 14, especially at Easter. He also promoted the use of patens and holy chalices made of glass. Zeferinus died as a martyr on December 20, 217, and was venerated as a saint on August 26 .
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