A learned pope of the late fifth century, he defended the Church's independence and orthodox teaching. He is known for a letter distinguishing spiritual authority from civil power and was generous to the poor.
Life
Saint Gelasius I was pope from 492 to 496, at the end of the fifth century. He is said to have been of African origin or a Roman of African descent, and before becoming pope he had already drafted important documents for the papal court.
In a letter to the Eastern emperor Anastasius he wrote that the world is governed by two powers, the sacred authority of bishops and royal power, emphasizing the independence of the Church. He was also generous to the poor suffering from famine and war, and worked to order the Church's liturgy and discipline. The Church remembers him on November 21.
Spirituality
Pope Gelasius's spirituality joins firmness in truth with mercy for the poor. He spoke clearly for the Church's freedom before the powerful while caring first for the hungry. For him, the Church's authority existed for service.
Reflection
Gelasius held together the courage to speak the truth and the mercy to care for the poor. Am I becoming someone who speaks the truth without losing love?