Sylvester was born into an unexceptional family in the fourth century. His rapid rise through church ranks is as unexplained as it is surprising. Much legend surrounds his early relationship with Emperor Constantine the Great. From the facts that are known, it is clear that Sylvester cared both about building projects in the Church, as well as the lasting spiritual authority of the Church.
The Birth, Family Circumstances, and Call to Religious Life of St. Sylvester
Sylvester was born in Rome at an unknown date to his father, Rufinus, and his mother, Justa. Little else is known about his birth or family; though it is known that they were a Roman family.
Sylvester became a priest in the Church of Rome. He served the parish of Equitius, which was inside the old city. One source indicates that Sylvester attached himself in some way with the entourage of the Pope during this time (Rabenstein). More traditional sources simply state that when Pope (also Saint) Miltiades (also known as Melchiades) died, Sylvester was elected to the throne of Saint Peter. Sylvester was pope for 21 years, the longest span of any pope up to that time.
Unlike with many other saints, there are no writings or stories of the deep call felt to religious life. It must be assumed that Sylvester felt that calling, as he became Pope and was active and devout for the rest of his life.
Legends Surrounding St. Sylvester and Constantine
There were many legends that surround the relationship of Sylvester and Constantine. One of the most notorious was the idea that Constantine had conceived the idea of bathing in children's blood in an attempt to cure the leprosy.
Legend then says the Saints Peter and Paul appeared to warn against that course of action, and instead recommended baptism. Legend has it that Sylvester baptized Constantine at this point. There is solid evidence against the baptism portion of the legend – it is known that Constantine the Great was baptized only when he had reached his deathbed.
The second great legend that surrounds Sylvester and Constantine would have even greater lasting effects. It is a known fact that Constantine did give some amounts of land to Sylvester, and therefore, the Church. However, a legend arose that there was a single sheet of paper in which Constantine deeded the entire land of the Papal States over to the Church; it was called the Donation of Constantine. When it was discovered this was untrue in later centuries, much faith was broken between the Church and its members.
Known Facts Surrounding St. Sylvester and Constantine
Pope Sylvester was Emperor Constantine's counselor and spiritual adviser for at least part of his life. Constantine also showed support for the Church by the deeding of land to them for the building of many churches in Rome. It is also believed that he helped with the expenses of the building programs.
Church Buildings and Laws Affected by St. Sylvester
Saint Sylvester is thought to have been involved with the following church properties and laws:
- Lateran Palace, later known as the basilica of St. John Lateran, was founded during this era. It would be expanded by later popes;
- Founding or restoration of Church of St. Peter, on Vatican Hill;
- Founding or restoration of St. Lawrence-outside-the-walls;
- Founding or restoration of Santa Croce;
- The building of the church of San Martino ai Monti, which was built over a house that had been previously used for worship during times of persecution;
- The building of a church over the Catacombs of St. Priscilla (on the Salerian Way);
- 300 laws dealing with the issues of justice, equality, proper behavior of churchmen, and evangelical purity were passed during his reign (Guilley), and;
- According to Kirsch, Sylvester also influenced the actual liturgy of the church. Kirsh's exact words: "No doubt the pope contributed to the development of the liturgy of the Church at Rome" (Kirsch).
The Death, Sainthood, and Feast Day of St. Sylvester
Sylvester died before Constantine, an important fact in the life of Constantine, who would turn to other advisers following the saint's death.
Sylvester was buried on December 31, 335 in the church that was constructed on Salerian Way. Sylvester was canonized, one of the first persons who was not a martyr to be canonized. His feast day is December 31 in the Western Church; January 2 and May 21 in the Eastern Church.
The Lasting Legacy of St. Sylvester
Sylvester was born into a normal family during normal times. There were no hints of exceptional wealth or piety in his family. Despite this, though there are few records from both his life and his papacy, the lasting effects can still be seen in the buildings he commissioned and/or restored, as well as in the liturgy that is still used by the Catholic Church. His relationship with Emperor Constantine will also mark a place in history for him. Saint Sylvester fulfilled his duties as Pope with great talent, and will be remembered for the churches and laws he left behind.
Sources:
- Guiley, Rosemary Ellen. (2001). The Encyclopedia of Saints. Visionary Living, Inc. Checkmark Books, New York, NY. ISBN 0816011342
- Kirsch, J.P. (1914) Pope Sylvester I, Saint. The Catholic Encyclopedia. San Diego, Catholic Answers, 2007.
- Rabenstein, Katherine I. (1998). Sylvester (Silvester) I, Pope (RM). Link to site
- St. Sylvester I, Pope. (1975). Liturgy of the Hours, The. Volume 1. Catholic Book Publishing Corp., New York, NY.
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