January 14historicalUniversal
Hyginus
Saint
Sanctified Life
74 — 142
"We must hold fast to the truth of Christ, lest the cunning of false teachings lead us astray."
An Athenian philosopher turned Pope, Hyginus is credited with organizing the hierarchy of the clergy. His path brought order to the growing Church, defining the role of godparents in baptism to ensure that new converts had spiritual guides to support them in the faith.
Historical Legacy
Historical Journey
Life Locations
Historical Summary (Wikidata)
Pope Hyginus was the Bishop of Rome from c. 138 to c. 142. Tradition holds that during his papacy he determined the various prerogatives of the clergy and defined the grades of the ecclesiastical hierarchy. He is also credited with instituting godparents at baptism to assist the baptized during their Christian life.
Canonization: saint
Historical Depiction
Wikimedia Commons Source
Titles & Roles
• Catholic priest
Sacred Symbols
Life Journey
74—
Born in Athens
Born to a Greek philosopher's family.
138—
Papacy Begins
Succeeds Pope Telesphorus as the Bishop of Rome.
139—
Combating Gnosticism
Confronts Gnostic heretics in Rome, defending the true nature of Christ.
140—
Church Order
Organizes the clergy and establishes the role of godparents.
142—
Death
Dies in Rome, likely a martyr, and is buried near St. Peter.