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Name:
Pope Marcellinus
Preceded by: St. Caius (Gaius) (283 - 296)
Succeeded by: St. Marcellus I (308 - 309)
Roman Catholic Pope #29
Dates:
Born: ?
Died: October 25, 304
Pope: June 30, 296 - ?
Biography:
When Marcellinus became pope Diocletian was already emperor but he had no yet begun his
infamous persecutions of Christians. Gradually, however, the tolerance turned to intolerance.
Christian soldiers were forced out of the army, church property was confiscated, and sacred
books were handed over to the authorities for destruction. Eventually Diocletian forced upon
Christians the choice between apostasy (denying their faith) or death.
Although the reasons are unknown, Marcellinus apparently bowed to imperial command by offering incense to the pagan gods and handing over scriptures for destruction. Some sources claim that he later repented, confessed the Christian faith, and was martyred; nevertheless the damage had been done and he was evidently forced from office at an unknown time for apostasy.
Also Known As: none
Alternate Spellings: none
Common Misspellings: none
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