Pope Saint Sixtus III

detail of a bas-relief portrait medallion of Pope Saint Sixtus III, date and artist unknown; Saint Peter's Basilica, Rome, Italy Also known as

Sisto III
Xystus III

Memorial

19 August
28 March on some calendars

Profile

Chosen 44th pope in 432. Approved the results of the Council of Ephesus. Corresponded extensively with Saint Augustine of Hippo. Fought Nestorianism and Pelagianism. Restored several Roman basilicas including Saint Peter’s and Saint John Lateran. Defended the supremacy of the pope over local bishops, and over Illyria which the emperor wanted to transfer to the control of Constantinople.