Feast of Pope St. Agatho

Pope St. Agatho, ora pro nobis

January 10th is the feast of St. Agatho (c. 577–681), Pope. Elected to the Roman See in 678, his pontificate lasted until his death in 681, during a time of plague in Rome. Born in Sicily, Agatho spent many years as a monk in Palermo, likely formed under the Rule of St. Benedict, and is remembered as a model of humility, learning, and doctrinal clarity during a time of grave theological crisis. His monastic formation shaped his character, and contemporaries described him as gentle in manner, austere in life, and exceptionally learned, especially in theology and Scripture.

Agatho’s pontificate is chiefly distinguished by his decisive role in resolving the Monothelite controversy—the claim that Christ possessed only one will. In a series of authoritative letters sent to the emperor and to the bishops of the East, Agatho affirmed the traditional Catholic teaching that Christ has two wills, divine and human, united without division in one person.

The condemnation of Monothelitism, including the posthumous censure of Pope Honorius I for negligence, strengthened the Church’s understanding of papal responsibility. The pope is preserved from error when he definitively teaches the faith, but not when he governs negligently or fails to act decisively.

Later tradition also credited Agatho with many miracles, earning him the title Thaumaturgus, or Wonderworker, particularly in his native Sicily.

Evviva Sant’Agatho!

In celebration of his feast, we offer this prayer:

Prayer to Saint Agatho

O holy St. Agatho, humble servant of God and faithful shepherd of the Church, you guided the flock of Christ with wisdom, courage, and love, defending the truth and bringing unity to His people. Intercede for us, we pray, that we may stand firm in our faith, resisting the errors and challenges of our time, and always seeking the peace and truth of Christ. Teach us your humility and devotion, so we may serve others with compassion, caring for the poor, the vulnerable, and the forgotten, as you so beautifully reflected the love of our Lord. St. Agatho, pray for us, that we may follow your example of steadfastness and holiness, and one day join you in the eternal joy of heaven. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord, Amen.