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Portrait of St. Sylvester I
A portrait of St. Sylvester I

St. Sylvester I

d. 335
Feast
December 31 · IV c.
Patron of
Popes · Domestic animals, traditional · Masons, traditional
Order
Pope

Pope from 314-335, Roman; first peace-time pope after the Edict of Milan (313), reigned during the Council of Nicaea (325) at which his legates Vitus and Vincentius represented him. Built (with imperial patronage) the original St. John Lateran, St. Peter's, and Santa Croce in Gerusalemme. Pre-Congregation; the legend of Constantine's baptism by Sylvester is medieval.

Life & Times

Died: 335 · From: Italy.

Patronage

St. Sylvester I is invoked as the patron of popes, domestic animals, traditional, masons, traditional. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.

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About Catholic Saints

Catholic saints, including St. Sylvester I, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.