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John IVPope from December 24, 640 to October 12, 642
Date of Birth: 01.01.0600
Country:  Italy |
Content:
- Early Life and Career
- Election and Papal Reign
- Response to Dalmatian Crisis
- Papal Buildings and Reforms
- Papal Letters and Controversies
- Death and Legacy
Early Life and Career
Pope John IV was born in Dalmatia, likely in the city of Split, to a scholar named Venantius. He was an Illyrian and became an archdeacon of the Roman Church, playing a key role in the administration of the diocese before his election.
Election and Papal Reign
John IV was elected as Pope on December 24, 640, after a four-month period of vacancy. His election was confirmed by the Exarch of Ravenna rather than the Byzantine emperor.
Response to Dalmatian Crisis
As a native of Dalmatia, John IV was deeply concerned about the plight of his homeland, which was facing invasions from the Slavs. He sent substantial funds to Bishop Martin of Dalmatia to ransom prisoners and transport the relics of important Dalmatian saints to Rome for safekeeping.
Papal Buildings and Reforms
In the Lateran Basilica, John IV constructed a chapel dedicated to Saint Venantius to commemorate the end of the Istrian schism. He also attempted to convert the Slavs in Dalmatia and Istria to Christianity.
Papal Letters and Controversies
While awaiting confirmation of his election, John IV wrote to the clergy in Ireland and Scotland, correcting errors in their Easter calculations and warning against Pelagian heresy. He also condemned the Monothelite heresy and the "Ecthesis" of Emperor Heraclius I, which supported this doctrine.
Death and Legacy
Pope John IV passed away in Rome on October 12, 642, and was interred in Saint Peter's Basilica. His pontificate is remembered for his compassion towards his Dalmatian homeland, his efforts to Christianize the Slavs, and his unwavering opposition to theological errors.
