January 20
Fabian, Pope and martyr (†250)
Martyr Pope
He was Supreme Pontiff from the year 236 to 250, for fourteen years.
Biography
The historian Eusebius tells that when the Pope, Saint Antero, died, the clergy of Rome met together with the faithful believers to elect the new Pope, and that while they were gathered there, they saw a dove descend on Fabian's head. They had not thought about electing him because he was not yet a priest and consecrated Bishop. Saint Cyprian said of him: "He was a very holy man, and the glory of his martyrdom corresponded to the great purity of his life." In the year 250, Emperor Decius ordered a terrible persecution against Christians and the first person he ordered to be killed was Pope Saint Fabian. He died in 250 AD.
Practical advice
With the desire to sanctify everyday life, forgive a specific offense from the heart and end with a brief thanksgiving.