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Name:
Pope Eleutherius
Pope Eleutherus
Preceded by: St. Soter (166 - 175)
Succeeded by: St. Victor I (189 - 199)
Roman Catholic Pope #13
Dates:
Born: Greece
Died: c. 0189 CE
Pope: c. 0174 - c. 0189 (c. 15 years)
Former Feast Day: May 26
Biography:
Eleutherius is a Greek name that means "frank, honest, free-spirited" and it is believed that
prior to becoming pope Eleutherius was a deacon to Pope Anicetus. Eleutherius' reign appears to
have been important for something he didn't do rather than for something he did.
During his pontificate there was a popular movement known as Montanism. The followers of Montanism were characterized by speaking in tongues and giving prophecies - hallmarks of the early church and the apostles. Montanists believed that they were in direct communication with the Holy Spirit ane hoped to return Christianity to its roots because the end of the world was coming soon.
According to Tertullian, a convert to Montanism, Eleutherius was at first favorably inclined to this movement, but in the end he rejected it. As a consequence official Christianity was inclined more towards a hierarchical structure for its spiritual leadership rather than the statements of individual conscience.
Also Known As: none
Alternate Spellings: none
Common Misspellings: none
Related Resources:
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