SAINT ANICETUS
Pope and Martyr

SIMPLE / RED
Anicetus, who was of Syrian ancestry, was pope from about the year 152 to the year 160. He took a firm stand against contemporary heresies. Although he did not actually shed his blood for the Faith, he merited the title of Martyr through the sufferings he endured in the government of the persecuted Church.

Mass of a POPE

COLLECT
O Eternal Shepherd, who appointed blessed Anicetus 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 Your 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 . . .