Born in the early fourth century in what is now Portugal, he came from a family of devout Christians and very early in life, he was called to serve The Lord. 

His father was a priest and Damasus followed in his footsteps, serving in what would later become San Lorenzo. 

In time, Damasus was called to serve Pope Liberius and, when he died, Damasus was elected to succeed him but, there was significant division, leading to an anti-pope. 

The split resulted in violence, and although Damasus won the battle he was never really able to heal the wounds it caused. 

However, his leadership from the seat of St. Peter was pivotal. 

Through his oversight, The Church became the official religion of the Roman State, Latin, the official language of The Church and he commissioned his secretary to translate the scriptures into Latin. 

That Secretary was St. Jerome. 

Despite the controversy of his Papacy, his lasting legacy is one of humility. 

While there is a crypt in Rome with his name on it, Damasus’ body is not in it. 

He said: “I, Damasus, wish to be buried here but I fear to offend the ashes of these holy ones.” 

These words are written on the side of the crypt in Rome, but Damasus was buried elsewhere, next to his mother and sister, in 384 AD. 

St. Damasus, please pray for us.