SAINT ANACLETUS
Pope and Martyr

SIMPLE / RED
Anacletus (sometimes referred to simply as Cletus) was an early successor of St. Peter. As yet no historical evidence has been unearthed to establish whether he was third or fourth pope, as there was no official archivists in the pioneering "underground" days of the Church. It is known that he was martyred in A.D. 91 during the reign of Domitian; and in thus sacrificing his life for Christ he became one of the foundation stones of the Church, then as now a Church of martyrs. "If anyone wishes to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For he who would save his life will lose it; but he who loses his life for My sake will find it" (Matt. 16:24-25).

Mass of a Pope

COLLECT
O Eternal Shepherd, who appointed blessed Anacletus, shepherd of the whole Church, let the prayers of this martyr and supreme pontiff move You to look with favor upon Your flock and to keep it under Your continual protection. Through our Lord . . .

SECRET

We have offered our gifts to You, O Lord. Let Your light graciously shine upon Your Church, so that this flock may everywhere prosper, and its pastors, under Your guidance, may be truly pleasing to You. Through our Lord . . .

POSTCOMMUNION

O Lord, govern the Church, which You have been pleased to nourish with Your heavenly Food. Guide her by Your powerful direction so that she may enjoy greater freedom and remain unshaken in the fullness of faith. Through our Lord . . .