When the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, crowds of people around the world will be celebrating the new year. However, as people stay out late, shoot off fireworks, and feast, many won’t know that they are participating in traditions honoring an early church pope and saint, St. Sylvester.
St. Sylvester served as pope from 314 to 335 A.D. Although this was 1700 years ago, the feats of St. Sylvester’s papacy make him a legendary figure.
As pope, St. Sylvester served during the reign of Emperor Constantine. Before Constantine, the emperors had been less than friendly to Christianity, most actively persecuting the early Christians. However, Constantine’s Edict of Milan gave Christians freedom of religion in 313, ushering in a new era for the Church. Let’s talk about it as we reflect on 2025 & look ahead to the renewal of a new year ahead.
As we wrap up our time together, let us finish with a powerful prayer invoking our guardian angels, patron saints, Mother Mary, and the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.
