Saint Pope Fabian (Pope 236 - 250) Feast Day 20th January

According to the Liber Pontificalis Fabian was a noble Roman and his father’s name was Fabius. Nothing more is known about his background

The story is told that he lived out in the country and came to Rome to see the election of the new Pope. Fabian walked Into the church where the papal elections were taking place . For 13 days they had been considering names of several illustrious and noble churchmen. A dove landed on Fabin’s head. Those present took it as a sign that the Holy Spirit had made the unexpected choice and he was immediately proclaimed bishop by acclamation… This ’ legend’ was recorded by the 4th century writer Eusebius of Caesarea in Church History V!. 29

During Fabin’s 14 year reign there was a lull in the storm of persecutions. His papacy was characterized by amicable relations with the imperial government.
According to the 6th century historian, Gregory of To
urs ,he sent seven apostles/bishops to Christianiseparts of Gaul in AD 245.
The Liber Ponticalis says the he divided Rome into 7 diaconates (areas run by deacons) and appointed secretaries to collect the record of the martyrs.Little is known about his work but It is thought he did much to teach and help the early church.

Saint Pope Fabian was martyred in 250 at the beginning of the Decian persecution, probably by prison rather than execution. Saint Cyprian said that his honourable end corresponded to the uprightness of his administration.

The Greek inscription on his tomb in the catacomb of Callixtus in Rome reads Fabian, Bishop, Martyr

( The Coptic orthodox Church teaches that Fabinus was martyred twice in the same week)

Sources
wikipedia

• The Church’s Year* Charles Alexander