In the tumultuous early 8th century, a period deeply shaped by the influence of the Byzantine Empire known as the Byzantine Papacy, two significant figures, Pope Sisinnius and Pope Constantine, briefly held the esteemed title of Bishop of Rome. Their intertwined pontificates, though short, left distinct marks on papal history, highlighting the challenges and diplomatic complexities of the era.

Pope Sisinnius: A Brief Reign of Iron Will

Born around 650 in the ancient city of Tyre, a vibrant hub in modern-day Lebanon, Pope Sisinnius, son of John, ascended to the papacy during a three-month vacancy following the death of Pope John VII. Consecrated as the Bishop of Rome around January 15, 708, his pontificate, tragically, would last a mere twenty days. Historical records suggest Sisinnius likely did not hail from the Roman aristocracy, a deduction drawn from the relatively modest donations received by the papacy during his tenure – a mere 42 pounds of gold and 310 pounds of silver, a fraction of what many contemporary pontiffs garnered.

Despite the brevity of his time in office, and a severe affliction with gout that reportedly rendered him unable to feed himself, Sisinnius was, according to the Catholic Encyclopedia, a man of "strong character" who remained deeply committed to the welfare of the city. His discerning mind quickly recognized pressing needs, leading him to consecrate a new bishop for Corsica, an island under papal jurisdiction. Crucially, Sisinnius also initiated the vital task of restoring Rome's decaying walls, ordering that lime be burned for their repair – a critical infrastructure project for the city's defense that would ultimately be completed by his successor, Pope Gregory II. Upon his death on February 4, 708, Sisinnius was laid to rest in the venerable Old St. Peter's Basilica, with his successor, Constantine, being elected less than two months later; some historians even speculate they were brothers.

Pope Constantine: The Diplomat of Constantinople

Born in 664, Pope Constantine assumed the papacy on March 25, 708, following Pope Sisinnius, and served until his death on April 9, 715. Constantine is particularly remembered as one of the last popes of the Byzantine Papacy, a period characterized by significant Eastern Roman imperial oversight in papal affairs. His pontificate’s defining moment arrived in 710/711 with a momentous and historically unprecedented visit to Constantinople, the heart of the Byzantine Empire, for diplomatic negotiations with Emperor Justinian II.

This extraordinary journey was not merely a ceremonial trip; it was a crucial mission to address the contentious issues arising from the *Trullan canons* of the *Quinisext Council*, which had convened earlier in 692. These canons, ecclesiastical laws largely intended for the Eastern Church, included provisions that were at odds with Western practices, creating friction between Rome and Constantinople. Pope Constantine’s diplomatic acumen allowed him to reach a compromise with Emperor Justinian II, navigating complex theological and disciplinary differences. The significance of this meeting cannot be overstated: it marked the last time a Pope would visit Constantinople until Pope Paul VI’s historic journey in 1967, more than 1,200 years later, underscoring the deep historical impact of Constantine's pontificate in maintaining, however precariously, the delicate balance between the Eastern and Western Churches.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pope Sisinnius and Pope Constantine

Who was Pope Sisinnius?

Pope Sisinnius was the Bishop of Rome from January 15, 708, until his death on February 4, 708. Born in Tyre (modern-day Lebanon), he was known for his strong character despite suffering from severe gout.

How long did Pope Sisinnius serve?

Pope Sisinnius had one of the shortest pontificates in history, serving for just twenty days.

What significant actions did Pope Sisinnius take?

Despite his brief reign, Pope Sisinnius consecrated a bishop for Corsica and, notably, initiated the crucial project of restoring Rome's city walls, a task later completed by Pope Gregory II.

Who was Pope Constantine?

Pope Constantine served as the Bishop of Rome from March 25, 708, to April 9, 715. He was one of the last popes of the Byzantine Papacy, an era marked by significant Eastern Roman influence.

What was Pope Constantine's most notable achievement?

Pope Constantine's defining moment was his 710/711 visit to Constantinople, where he successfully negotiated a compromise with Emperor Justinian II regarding the controversial Trullan canons of the Quinisext Council, a testament to his diplomatic skills.

When was the next papal visit to Constantinople after Constantine's?

Pope Constantine's visit in 710/711 was the last papal visit to Constantinople for over 1,200 years, with the next one occurring in 1967 when Pope Paul VI traveled to the city.