Julius, Pope (4th century)

Biography

The main merit of Julius I is to have defended the Mystery of the Holy Trinity against those who tried to make the Gospel a half-hearted monotheism, rationalistic and acceptable to all. A dozen councils had to pass before at the Council of Constantinople (381) all the Christian Churches unanimously condemned Arianism and its substitutes. Julius I also rehabilitated the great doctor Saint Athanasius, whom the Arians had expelled several times from their see in Alexandria. Furthermore, he renewed his adherence to the pure and simple text of the Nicene Creed, and proclaimed the supremacy of Rome. Julius himself in the past wrote to the bishops of the East the following words: "When questions arise, according to custom, you must first write to us so that, with justice, we can resolve the problem." These continuous positions became necessary in consideration of the repeated attempts at interference by the imperial power, in often strictly religious issues. The foundation of the archives of the Holy See is due to this pope. He also ordered that the Church of the East also celebrate Christmas on December 25, and not on January 6 as was done until then. His body lies in the Roman church of S. Maria in Trastevere.