Deaths on February 4

Pope Sisinnius (b. 650)

Pope Sisinnius, a figure whose pontificate was remarkably brief yet not without historical note, served as the Bishop of Rome and the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church from January 15, 708, until his death on February 4 of the same year. Born circa 650 CE, his time in office, spanning a mere twenty days, ranks among the shortest reigns in the long history of the papacy.

Sisinnius originated from Tyre, a historically significant ancient city located in what is now modern-day Lebanon. At the time of his birth, Tyre was part of the Byzantine Empire, reflecting the broader geopolitical landscape that influenced the Papacy. His father's name was John. Unlike many contemporary pontiffs who often emerged from the wealthy Roman aristocracy, Sisinnius's background appears to have been more humble. This deduction is supported by the financial records of his extremely short reign, which show a modest receipt of 42 pounds of gold and 310 pounds of silver in donations to the Holy See. This sum represented only a fraction of the personal contributions typically made by other popes of that era, suggesting a lack of the significant personal wealth or aristocratic patronage that often accompanied high ecclesiastical office during that period.

Sisinnius's selection as Pope occurred during a period marked by profound Byzantine domination, where the Eastern Roman Empire exerted considerable influence over papal elections and affairs. He succeeded Pope John VII, following a three-month interregnum, or vacancy, in the papal see. His formal consecration as the Bishop of Rome took place around January 15, 708. Despite achieving the zenith of ecclesiastical power in the West, his pontificate was destined to be fleeting, lasting for just twenty days before his untimely demise.

Despite the extreme brevity of his time in office and a severe physical affliction, Pope Sisinnius is remembered for his remarkable strength of character. According to accounts from the Catholic Encyclopedia, he suffered so profoundly from gout that he was reportedly unable to even feed himself. Yet, in defiance of his debilitating condition, he was described as a man dedicated to "take thought for the good of the city," referring to Rome itself. His commitment to the welfare and infrastructure of the eternal city was evident in one of his very few official acts: he notably ordered that lime be burned. This was a crucial, laborious process for producing quicklime, an essential building material used to create mortar, vital for restoring and reinforcing the ancient walls of Rome. These formidable fortifications, critical for the city's defense against barbarian incursions and general decay, had fallen into disrepair. Although Sisinnius initiated this vital project, its full execution was eventually completed by his more famous successor, Pope Gregory II, who continued the crucial work of urban restoration that Sisinnius had envisioned.

Another significant, albeit limited, action during his short reign was the consecration of a new bishop for Corsica, an island that fell within the jurisdictional reach and pastoral care of the Roman Pontiff, underscoring the Papacy's ongoing administrative duties across its sphere of influence.

Pope Sisinnius passed away on February 4, 708, a mere twenty days after his consecration. He was interred in the venerable Old St. Peter's Basilica, the magnificent Constantinian basilica that stood on Vatican Hill before the construction of the present-day basilica. Less than two months after his death, his successor, Pope Constantine, was elected. Interestingly, some historians suggest that Pope Constantine may have been Sisinnius's brother, highlighting potential familial ties within the powerful Roman ecclesiastical and aristocratic circles of the era.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pope Sisinnius

When was Pope Sisinnius born and when did he die?

Pope Sisinnius was born around 650 CE and died on February 4, 708.

How long was Sisinnius Pope?

His pontificate was exceptionally brief, lasting only twenty days, from his consecration around January 15, 708, until his death.

Where was Pope Sisinnius from?

He was born in Tyre, a historic city located in modern-day Lebanon, which was part of the Byzantine Empire at that time.

What was Pope Sisinnius's most notable act during his papacy?

Despite his short reign and severe physical ailments, his most significant act was ordering the burning of lime for the vital restoration of Rome's ancient city walls. This crucial project was later completed by his successor, Pope Gregory II.

What was Pope Sisinnius's physical condition?

He suffered severely from gout, to the extent that historical accounts suggest he was unable to feed himself. Despite this, he was noted for his strong character and dedication to Rome's welfare.

Where was Pope Sisinnius buried?

He was buried in the historic Old St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.

Who succeeded Pope Sisinnius?

Pope Sisinnius was succeeded by Pope Constantine. Some historians propose that Constantine was his brother.