Hieromartyr Urban, Pope of Rome

Commemorated on May 25.

Little is known of the life of Bishop Urban. He was born in Rome and elected bishop of Rome on October 14, 222. Most of his life is legendary although he is mentioned in Eusebius' history. He was believed to have been martyred but some scholars believe he may have died of natural causes.

The dissension within the Church begun by Hippolytus during the reign of Callistus I continued while Bp. Urban led the church in Rome.

Bp. Urban reposed in 230, perhaps on October 19 although this date may have been that of another Urban of Rome.

Troparion

By sharing in the ways of the Apostles,
you became a successor to their throne.
Through the practice of virtue, you found the way to divine contemplation, O inspired one of God;
by teaching the word of truth without error, you defended the Faith,
even to the shedding of your blood.
Hieromartyr Urban, entreat Christ God to save our souls.