http://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Pope_Fabian
Fabian, attending the election of the new Bishop of Rome became a surprise candidate when a dove landed on his head. The people took this as an omen, and he was elected Bishop of Rome in January of 236, a position which he held until his martyrdom on 20 January 250.
Fabian turned out to be an excellent administrator, and set up the parish structure still in use in Rome today. As well he appointed 14 men to write the lives of the martyrs. He also divided the city into diaconates, and basically set up a structure that was sound and enduring and would help the church survive the coming persecution. Fabian was one of the first martyrs to die under the persecution by Decius, the first persecution of the church which was empire wide. His courage during his beating and death inspired many, and his tomb is still with us today.
http://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Pope_Fabian
http://satucket.com/lectionary/Fabian.htm
Collect: O Lord of the Universe, who used a dove to single out Fabien as Bishop of Rome. Grant us power to remember those before us and imitate them in giving all for Christ. This we ask through Yeshua haMoshiach, who lives and reins with you, one God in glory everlasting. Amen (red)
Psalm 126
2 Esdras 2:42-48
1 Corinthians 15:31-36, 44b-49
Luke 21:20-24
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