St. Pontian served as Pope from 230 to 235 AD and was a key figure in convening a synod in Alexandria confirming the excommunication of Origin, the infamous theologian and historian. 

But in 235 he was banished to the island of Sardinia by the Roman emperor during a period of persecution against the Christians where he died from beatings and neglect but, before he died, he was reconciled with St. Hippolytus. 

Hippolytus was known for his eloquence and intelligence and was a powerful influence in Rome. He also was vehement in his defense of The Church against heresies. 

But Hippolytus was very intense. He believed The Church should be comprised of only pure souls and that Pope Callistus was far too lenient with sinners and he 

eventually organized an effort to have himself elected as an antipope. 

This placed Hippolytus in the middle of a schism where he remained for eighteen years and the reign of three Popes, including Pope Pontian. 

Finally, Hippolytus, too, was banished to the island of Sardinia when Pontian was in his last days. 

Before Pontian died, Hippolytus was reconciled with both Pontian and the Holy Mother Church. 

Both died in exile on the island of Sardinia.

St. Pope Pontian and St. Hippolytus, please pray for us.