Pope John VI (b. 655)

While the name Pope John VI might immediately bring to mind the Roman Pontiff, it is important to note that this designation can also refer to Pope John VI of Alexandria, who served as the 71st Coptic Pope and Patriarch of Alexandria. This distinction highlights the parallel ecclesiastical histories and leadership across different Christian traditions.

Pope John VI (Latin: Ioannes VI), born around 655 AD, served as the Bishop of Rome and head of the Catholic Church from October 30, 701, until his death on January 11, 705. His pontificate, though relatively brief, was marked by significant diplomatic and political maneuvering on the Italian Peninsula during a tumultuous period.

Origins and the Byzantine Papacy

John VI was a Greek by birth, originating from Ephesus, a historically significant city in Asia Minor renowned for its early Christian heritage and as the site of the Council of Ephesus. His Greek origin placed him squarely within the era known as the Byzantine Papacy, a period spanning from the mid-6th to the mid-8th century. During this time, the popes were often of Greek or Syrian descent, and the Holy See was heavily influenced by the Byzantine Empire. This era saw many popes requiring imperial confirmation for their election and often navigating complex relationships with the Byzantine Emperor and the Exarch of Ravenna, the Emperor's chief representative in Italy.

A Papacy Defined by Political Acumen and Military Intervention

Pope John VI's papacy is particularly noted for his astute handling of the volatile political and military landscape in Italy. At this time, the Italian peninsula was a battleground of competing powers, primarily the Byzantine Empire (which still held significant territories like the Exarchate of Ravenna and the Duchy of Rome) and the Lombards, a Germanic people who had established their own kingdom in parts of Italy since 568 AD and posed a constant threat to Rome.

• Negotiating with the Lombards: One of his most crucial interventions involved Duke Gisulf I of Benevento, a powerful Lombard leader who had launched a devastating invasion of Campania, threatening Rome itself. Rather than relying on the often-absent or ineffective Byzantine military, Pope John VI took decisive action. He dispatched a delegation of Roman priests, who successfully persuaded Gisulf to withdraw his forces from Byzantine territory by offering a substantial sum of money. This act not only averted a potential siege of Rome but also underscored the Pope's growing temporal authority and his role as a protector of the Roman populace, filling a void left by the weakening imperial presence.
• Mediating Imperial Disputes: John VI also demonstrated his influence over imperial affairs. When the Byzantine Exarch Theophylact arrived in Rome, he faced a mutiny by the Byzantine troops stationed there, who were discontented over unpaid wages. Pope John VI intervened, using his moral authority and influence to quell the rebellion and protect the Exarch from harm. This incident further solidified the Pope's standing as a vital mediator and power broker in Italy, even among imperial forces.

Succession and Legacy

Pope John VI died on January 11, 705. He was succeeded by Pope John VII, following a vacancy of less than two months, a relatively swift transition for the period. His body was laid to rest in Old St. Peter's Basilica, the venerated burial site for many early popes, located on Vatican Hill.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pope John VI

Who was Pope John VI?

Pope John VI was the Bishop of Rome and head of the Catholic Church from October 30, 701, until his death on January 11, 705. He was a Greek from Ephesus who served during the Byzantine Papacy.

What was the Byzantine Papacy?

The Byzantine Papacy was a historical period from the mid-6th to the mid-8th century during which the popes were often of Greek or Syrian descent and the Papacy was significantly influenced by the Byzantine Empire. This era saw strong imperial involvement in papal elections and administration.

What were Pope John VI's most notable achievements?

Pope John VI is primarily remembered for his critical diplomatic and political interventions. He successfully negotiated with the Lombard Duke Gisulf I of Benevento to prevent an attack on Rome and mediated a mutiny among Byzantine troops in Italy, demonstrating the Pope's increasing temporal power and influence in protecting Roman interests.

Where was Pope John VI buried?

Pope John VI was buried in Old St. Peter's Basilica, the ancient basilica that stood on the site of the current St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City.