How did the anti-pope Hippolytus become a Catholic saint?

Question

Hippolytus of Rome opposed four popes: Pope Zephyrinus (199-217), Pope Callixtus I (217-222), Pope Urban I (222-230) and Pope Pontian (230-235).

Answer 1

Good question.

Answer 2

The fact that Hippolytus was a schismatic Bishop of Rome and yet was held in high honour afterwards both as martyr and theologian, explains why as early as the fourth century nothing was known as to his see, for he was not on the list of the Roman bishops. The theory championed by Lightfoot (see below), that he was actually Bishop of Porto but with his official residence in Rome, is untenable.



This statement, made by a few authorities, results from a confusion with a martyr of Porto, due perhaps to a legendary account of his martyrdom. Moreover De Rossi's hypothesis, based on the inscription by Damasus, that Hippolytus returned from exile, and subsequently became an adherent of Novatian, his reconciliation with the Roman Church not being effected until just before his martyrdom under the Emperor Valerian (253-60), is incompatible with the supposition that he is the author of the "Philosophumena." The feast of St. Hippolytus is kept on 13 August, a date assigned in accordance with the legend of St. Laurence; that of Hippolytus of Porto is celebrated on 22 August.

Answer 3

Because he stepped down without a fuss. He had been convinced that the real pope was not legitimately the pope so he stepped up to the plate to take on the role to protect the church. That's why he was able to become a saint

Answer 4

It appears that while he opposed the RCC for a time, he was reconciled with it before his death. Here is an official website that goes into All the details, happy reading - http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/07360c.htm

Answer 5

Why should I care who a man calls a saint?

Answer 6

its all politics. it probably benefited some powerful rich guy to call him saint.

Answer 7

why did the romans binge and purge....