What is third century pope?

The third century saw a number of popes who guided the Catholic Church through difficult times of persecution and political instability. Some notable third century popes include:

1. Pope Callixtus I (217-222): He was a former slave who rose to become the bishop of Rome. He was known for his compassion towards sinners and his efforts to reconcile them with the Church. He also established the practice of indulgences, which allowed sinners to reduce their temporal punishment for sins by performing good works or acts of charity.

2. Pope Cornelius (251-253): He was elected as pope during a period of schism within the Church. He was recognized as the legitimate pope by most bishops, but a rival faction elected Novatian as an antipope. Cornelius upheld the traditional view that lapsed Christians could be readmitted to the Church after repentance, while Novatian believed that they should be permanently excluded.

3. Pope Fabian (236-250): He was elected as pope after a dove landed on his head during the papal conclave. He faced persecution from the Roman emperor Decius, who ordered the execution of many Christians. Fabian was eventually captured and beheaded.

Overall, the third century was a challenging time for the Catholic Church, as it faced persecution and internal controversies. Nevertheless, these popes played an important role in maintaining the faith and guiding the Church through difficult times.