A Roman priest who served for many years before becoming pope in the early seventh century, he led the Church through a time of plague and earthquake. He is remembered for personally caring for the sick and for his devotion to the clergy.
Life
Saint Adeodatus I (also called Deusdedit) was pope from 615 to 618, in the early seventh century. A Roman priest, he is said to have served the Church for many years before becoming pope in old age. Because his pontificate was short and records are few, the details of his life are not well known.
According to tradition, when an earthquake and an epidemic struck Rome during his pontificate, he personally cared for the sick. He is also said to have cherished the clergy of Rome and left them a bequest. The Church remembers him on November 8.
Spirituality
Pope Adeodatus's spirituality is a shepherd's love that stays with the flock in times of crisis. He served quietly as a priest for many years and, as pope, is said to have cared personally for the sick amid disaster. Like his name, "given by God," he was a gift to his community.
Reflection
Tradition says Pope Adeodatus stayed beside the sick in a time of disaster. How can I be present to a neighbor who is struggling right now?