SAINT CORNELIUS
Pope and Martyr
(?-253)
St. Cornelius became Bishop of Rome in 251. He defended the Church against the Novatian schismatics with the help of Cyprian, and upheld the authority of the Apolistic See. He was exiled by Emperor Gallus, and died in exile in 253 in Civitavecchia. His body was brought to Rome where he was buried in the cemetery of Saint Callistus.
SAINT CYPRIAN
Bishop and Martyr
(c. 210-258)
St. Cyprian was an African of noble birth, but of evil life, a pagan, and a teacher of rhetoric. In middle life, he was converted to Christianity, and shortly after his baptism was ordained priest, and made Bishop of Carthage, notwithstanding his resistance. When the persecution of Decius broke out, he fled from his episcopal city, that he might be the better able to minister to the wants of his flock, but returned on occasion of a pestilence. Later on, he was banished, and saw in a vision his future martyrdom.
Being recalled from exile, sentence of death was pronounced against him, which he received with the words, "Thanks be to God." His great desire was to die whilst in the act of preaching the faith of Christ, and he had the consolation of being surrounded at his martyrdom by crowds of his faithful children. He was beheaded on the 14th of September, 258 and was buried with great solemnity. Even the pagans respected his memory.
God our Father, in Saints Cornelius and Cyprian you have given your people an inspiring example of dedication to the pastoral ministry and constant witness to Christ in their suffering. May their prayers and faith give us courage to work for the unity of our Church. Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.