9th century
Feast: February 11
Pope who defended orthodox doctrine and rebuilt many Roman churches during the Carolingian period.
Paschal I served as Pope from 817 to 824 during the Carolingian Renaissance (died 824). He defended orthodox doctrine against iconoclasm and worked to rebuild Roman churches. He welcomed Greek monks fleeing iconoclastic persecution. Known for his building projects and care for refugees. His papacy strengthened relations between Rome and the Byzantine Church.