Pope Stephen I - Definition

Stephen I, pope (about March 12, 254 to August 2, 257). Of Roman birth but of Greek ancestry, he became bishop of Rome in 254, when internal disputes racking the Church were as much a threat as the external persecutions. He withdrew from church fellowship with Cyprian and certain bishops of the Roman province of Asia on account of their views as to the necessity of rebaptizing those who had lapsed during the "Decian persecution" of 250 - 251 for readmission to communion. He is also mentioned as having insisted on the restoration of the bishops of León and Astorga, who had been deposed for unfaithfulness during the persecution but afterwards had repented. He is commemorated on August 1.