8th century
Feast: October 22
Pope who defended papal independence and supported missionaries during the Carolingian period.
Paul I served as Pope from 757 to 767 and was brother of Pope Stephen II (700-767). He continued his brother policies of papal independence from Byzantine influence. He supported missionary efforts in Germany and maintained relations with Frankish kings. Known for his diplomatic skills and church reforms. He died having strengthened the papal states and church autonomy.