Today, October 26, the Catholic Church honors St. Evaristus, the sixth successor of Saint Peter, whose leadership and legacy continue to inspire the faithful. Born in Bethlehem to a Greek Jewish father named Juda, Evaristus’ life reflects the rich cultural tapestry of the early Christian community. Though details of his martyrdom remain undocumented, tradition holds that he gave his life for his faith, joining the ranks of early Church martyrs.
St. Evaristus succeeded Saint Anacletus as pope and shepherded the Church during a pivotal era, under the Roman emperors Domitian, Nerva, and Trajan. According to the Liber Pontificalis, he led the Church for over thirteen years, six months, and two days, from 96 to 108 AD. His tenure is remembered for administrative innovations that strengthened the organization of the growing Christian community in Rome.
Among his notable contributions, Pope Evaristus divided the city’s parishes among the priests and established seven deacons to assist the bishop, ensuring pastoral care and accountability within the Church. During three December ordinations, he elevated six priests, two deacons, and five bishops to serve the expanding Christian congregations, demonstrating his commitment to structured leadership and spiritual guidance.
Tradition holds that St. Evaristus suffered martyrdom, possibly contemporaneously with St. Ignatius of Antioch. He is often depicted with a sword, symbolizing his decapitation, or with a crib, a reminder of his birthplace in Bethlehem. His remains were laid to rest near Saint Peter’s tomb in the Vatican, cementing his connection to the foundation of the Roman Church.
Celebrating St. Evaristus today is not only a remembrance of his personal sacrifice but also an acknowledgment of his pioneering role in structuring the early Church, ensuring that clergy and laity alike could flourish in faith amidst challenges. The Church venerates him as a model of courage, leadership, and devotion an enduring example for bishops, priests, and all faithful Christians.