Saint Cletus (Pope Cletus)
- Feast Day: April 26
- Time Period: 1st century (c. 76–88 A.D.)
- Role: Third Bishop of Rome (after St. Peter and St. Linus)
Biography:
Saint Cletus is listed in ancient Church records as the third Pope, succeeding St. Linus and preceding St. Clement I. Some early sources also call him Anacletus (meaning “blameless” or “without reproach”). It is sometimes debated whether Cletus and Anacletus are two different men or the same man referred to differently, but traditionally they are understood as one person.
He led the Church during a time of persecution under the Roman Emperor Domitian, a dangerous era for Christians. His papacy was primarily about solidifying the early Christian community and possibly ordaining priests to serve the faithful in Rome. His martyrdom is traditionally held to have occurred under Domitian, although little is known about the circumstances. He was buried near St. Peter in the Vatican.
Saint Marcellinus (Pope Marcellinus)
- Feast Day: June 2
- Time Period: 3rd–4th century (died c. 304 A.D.)
- Role: 29th Bishop of Rome (pope during the Diocletian persecution)
Biography:
Saint Marcellinus governed the Church during one of its fiercest periods of persecution under Emperor Diocletian. His papacy (296–304 A.D.) coincided with brutal efforts to destroy Christianity, including burning Scriptures and forcing Christians to offer sacrifice to Roman gods.
Some ancient accounts, particularly the Liber Pontificalis, suggest that under immense pressure, Marcellinus might have offered incense to pagan idols, but later repented publicly. He was ultimately martyred for the faith, remaining steadfast unto death. His story is a profound example of repentance, courage, and final triumph over fear and worldly power.
Quick Distinction:
- Cletus: early Church, apostolic times, after St. Peter.
- Marcellinus: later, facing imperial persecution in the 300s.