Died: August 2, 640 A.D.
Pronounced: sev-uhr-EYE-nuss
Give me the scoop on Severinus.
Severinus, a Roman, was likely an old man by the time he reached the papacy. He took the Chair of Peter on May 28, 640, but reigned a mere 66 days, dying in office on August 2. One of his sole acts as pope was building the apse in the old St. Peter’s Basilica, where he was eventually buried.
What was he known for?
Just about the only thing Severinus is known for is thumbing his nose at the wishes of Emperor Heraclius. One of the conditions of his confirmation – or so the emperor wished – was that the new pope must pledge allegiance to the Monothelitist heresy taught by Sergius, the patriarch of Constantinople (the very same one that got Honorius I in hot water, for those keeping score at home). Severinus’ consecration, as a result, was delayed for well over a year after Honorius’ death. But our good pontiff held the line, refusing to subject the Church to a dubious belief and telling the emperor, “You’re not the boss of me.” Win: Pope.
Fun Fact…
The name “Severinus” is derived from the name “Severus” meaning “stern”.
What else was going on in the world at the time?
The great St. Arnold, patron saint of brewers and archbishop of Metz (northeast France), died at the age of 58. Click here to read more about three legends surrounding this iconic saint.
Coming tomorrow….John IV
Can’t get enough papal history?
Click here to listen to The Popecast, a short podcast about popes from the author of Popes in a Year.
SOURCES (and further reading)
John, E. (1964). The Popes: A concise biographical history. New York: Hawthorn Books.
Pope Severinus – http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/13742c.htm
Pope Severinus – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pope_Severinus
640 – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/640
Sent by Matthew Sewell