Pope Sixtus I was a
Roman whose father's name was Pastor.
Several religious practice rules of the Catholic Church
are attributed to Pope Sixtus I:
In order to preserve the sacredness of ceremonial
vessels, Pope Sixtus I reserved the
right only to priests to touch the wine cup (chalice) and plate (paten) used
to hold the Host during the celebration of the Eucharist.
To keep local Catholic churches in communication with
Rome, Pope Sixtus I decreed that bishops
received in Rome by the pope must present a letter of greeting from the pope
to the faithful upon their return home.
Although the prayer had been said outside of Mass, Pope Sixtus I is credited with the
introduction of the triple Sanctus (Holy, Holy, Holy) during Mass.
The doctrine of the Trinity and the primacy of Rome are
also ascribed to Pope Sixtus I.
Pope Sixtus I died a
martyr, and his Feast Day is April 6. Pope
Sixtus I is buried next to Saint Peter.
