Saint Adeodatus I (d. 618) Pope Also known as: Deusdedit

Saint Adeodatus I (d. 618) Pope Also known as: Deusdedit

Adeodatus was born in Rome, the son of a subdeacon named Stephen. He had been a priest in Rome for 40 years when he was elected to the Chair of St. Peter to succeed St. Boniface IV. Consecrated on October 19, 615, he was the first priest who was not also a monastic to become pope since John II (r. 533–535).

His pontificate was conducted in a time of many troubles—war between the Lombards and Byzantines, a plague of leprosy, and a major earthquake. He gave generously to the victims and helped them in any way he could. He was equally supportive of his clergy, who were impoverished by the same events, leaving each a year’s stipend in his will.

Adeodatus is thought to have been the first to use leaden bullae to seal his official pronouncements, thus the name “bulls,” as papal documents are still known today.

He died in Rome on November 8, 618.

Feast: November 8