Some moments in Church history defy expectation. One such moment took place in the year 236 when the faithful gathered to choose a new bishop of Rome. What happened next would become one of the most remarkable stories of divine guidance in papal history, and it centers on St. Fabian.
The Church had just lost its pope, and the Christian community in Rome prepared itself for the solemn process of selecting the next leader. Like many elections of the era, it was expected to be a careful deliberation among the clergy and faithful. But on that day, something extraordinary occurred.
As the clergy discussed candidates, a dove descended from the sky and settled on a man standing quietly among the crowd. That man was Fabian, a layman about whom little was widely known. The dove remained with him for a remarkable length of time, and the people interpreted this sign as a heavenly endorsement. In an instant, the choice was made. Without the usual maneuvering, arguments, or politicking, Fabian was acclaimed pope.
This moment stands out not only for its drama, but for what it teaches about the Church’s understanding of God’s active presence. Election was not merely a human process; it was a moment of prayer, trust, and submission to God’s will. The image of the dove carries deep meaning in Christian tradition, signifying the Holy Spirit. For the early Christians, the Spirit was not an abstract idea but a living guide.
Fabian went on to serve the Church with wisdom and courage. His papacy was marked by organization and growth. He divided Rome into ecclesiastical districts, appointed deacons to oversee welfare, and took care to protect the Church from internal division and external threats. His leadership demonstrated that a surprising beginning can lead to fruitful and steady stewardship when it is rooted in faith.
In a world often characterized by lengthy debates, power struggles, and strategic campaigning, St. Fabian’s election reminds us that God’s ways are not our ways. The Church does not simply choose leaders by human standards. She prays, listens, and remains open to the unexpected movement of the Spirit.
Sometimes, the most remarkable decisions are revealed not through calculation but through quiet submission to God’s will. And when the Spirit moves, even a layman in the crowd can be invited to undertake a great responsibility.
If stories like St. Fabian’s surprise election inspire you, the A Year with the Popes book offers a rich journey through the lives and teachings of the successors of St. Peter. From early martyrs to modern saints, this devotional invites you to reflect on the role of the papacy in guiding the Church through history with faith, courage, and fidelity. It is a meaningful way to deepen your understanding of the Church’s past and to pray for the Church’s future. Discover your copy today at The Catholic Company!
