6th century
Feast: May 18
Pope who courageously traveled to Constantinople to negotiate with the Byzantine Emperor on behalf of Christians.
John I became Pope in 523 and served until 526 (470-526). He was sent by Arian King Theodoric to negotiate with Emperor Justin I about the treatment of Arians. Though successful in his diplomatic mission, he was imprisoned by Theodoric upon his return for being too favorable to the Emperor. He died in captivity, venerated as a martyr.