Abstract
Abstract Bishop Callixtus I of Rome (217?–222?) is well known for his position as manager of the κοιμητήριον, the earliest subterranean community burial ground, today known as the Catacombs of Callixtus. Less well documented, but particularly formative is, however, Callixtus’ early ecclesial career starting with his recognition as an authentic confessor shortly after his return from the mines of Sardinia. This contribution aims to shed some light on this formative period and explores the mechanisms behind Callixtus’ promotion to paid ecclesial ministry. It argues that Callixtus’ association with the clergy was neither an honorary, that is, automatic admission, nor merely a pious act to honour his individual and spiritual achievement. It seems, it was also a powerful instrument to financially support, integrate, and if necessary, control independent spiritual authorities. Moreover, Callixtus’ installation in active ministry, as well as that of other confessors, show typical patterns of client-patron relationship.
Highlights
Bishop Callixtus I of Rome (217?–222?) is well known for his position as manager of the κοιμητήριον, the earliest subterranean community burial ground, today known as the Catacombs of Callixtus
The little we know about Callixtus and his life is preserved in a heresiology, the Refutatio omnium haeresium ( Refutatio)
Taking the Natalius affair, the witness of the Traditio apostolica and Cyprian’s approach into consideration, Callixtus’ monthly allowance gives the impression that he was recognised by bishop Victor and by the Roman church as an authentic confessor, and suggests his promotion to clerical ministry.[54]. It cannot be determined with certainty whether the episcopal church of Rome defined the dignity of a confessor as equal to the honour of the presbyterate, the unanimous witness of the Traditio apostolica and Cyprian’s letters makes such an assumption rather plausible
Summary
The first piece of evidence is an anonymous source concerning the heresy of Artemon, transmitted by Eusebios of Caesarea. Taking the Natalius affair, the witness of the Traditio apostolica and Cyprian’s approach into consideration, Callixtus’ monthly allowance gives the impression that he was recognised by bishop Victor and by the Roman church as an authentic confessor, and suggests his promotion to clerical ministry.[54] it cannot be determined with certainty whether the episcopal church of Rome defined the dignity of a confessor as equal to the honour of the presbyterate, the unanimous witness of the Traditio apostolica and Cyprian’s letters makes such an assumption rather plausible It must remain uncertain whether Callixtus’ actual ministry corresponded to a confessor’s dignity or not. This is because both the Traditio apostolica and Cyprian’s approach distinguish clearly between the dignity of a confessor and his actual ministry
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