Clement I was the first Pope after Saint Peter and may have been ordained by Saint Peter himself. As Pope, Clement wrote a letter to the church in Corinth to help resolve disputes and preserve unity in the early Christian community. The letter provides valuable insights into the early church's understanding of the papacy and hierarchy as a means of governing Christians and resolving conflicts in a loving way. Clement is regarded as a model of gentle and balanced leadership that sought to maintain peace and order through service rather than rigid authority.

1. Saint Clement I, Pope and Martyr
First Century
November 23—Optional Memorial
Liturgical Color: Red
Patron Saint of sailors and marble workers
Primacy more than infallibility, service more than authority
Our loving maternal Church expresses herself through a paternal structure which makes decisions, resolves conflicts, intercedes in disputes, and governs the peopl
Though few details of Clement’s life are known, what is known is surpassingly important. Clement is the very first Apostolic Father and may have been ordained by
Clement’s letter reveals an even-tempered soul, a shepherd eager to preserve the tenuous unity of his flock. The letter is invaluable as a proof of the centrality of the
As the first generations of Christians realized that Christ was not going to return before they died, their understanding of the Church matured. Personal prophecies
Saint Clement, you spoke with fatherly authority to faithful men and women struggling to preserve Christian unity. May your balanced example inspire all in H