October 14, 2026
Today we observe the feast of Pope Saint Callistus I, a martyr who is also patron of cemetery workers and the dying. He was pope from 217 AD until his death by martyrdom in 223 during an anti-Christian uprising in Rome.
Born into slavery to a Christian master who let him manage his finances, Callistus fled when he lost the money. Later, he was sent to the salt mines in Sardinia following a disturbance he caused in a synagogue, but was freed when the emperor’s mistress interceded for him.
Pope Zephyrinus ordained him a deacon, and he was put in charge of the Christian burial ground on the Appian Way, which is known as the Catacombs of St. Callistus. Because of this, he is patron of cemetery workers and the dying.
His election as pope led to the first schism in the church, when the theologian Hippolytus set himself up as an anti-pope because of Callistus’ leniency toward those who committed grave sins, such as adultery. During his papacy, he focused on divine mercy and championed reconciliation. His feast day is October 14.
Collect Prayer for St. Callistus I
“O God, who raised up Pope Saint Callistus the First to serve the Church and attend devoutly to Christ’s faithful departed, strengthen us, we pray, by his witness to the faith, so that, rescued from the slavery of corruption, we may merit an incorruptible inheritance. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.”
Intercessory Prayer for Cemetery Workers
“St. Callistus, holy pope and martyr who cared for the catacombs and final resting places of the faithful, intercede for all cemetery workers and keepers. Bless their hands and their sacred ministry, and grant them strength, compassion, and grace in their daily work. Amen.”
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