Saint Sylvester: Leading Through Change
The Feast of Saint Sylvester I, Pope is celebrated on December 31 in the Western Church (and January 2 in the Eastern Orthodox Church), marking the death of the 33rd Pope (314–335) during the pivotal era of Constantine the Great.
Sylvester guided the Church through the transition from persecution to freedom after the Edict of Milan (313). He presided over early councils combating Arianism, oversaw the building of great basilicas (St. John Lateran, Old St. Peter’s), and symbolized peace after centuries of martyrdom. Though legends (like baptizing Constantine or the “Donation of Constantine”) are later fabrications, his real legacy is steadfast leadership amid profound change.
Leadership Lessons for Catholic Leaders
His feast closes the calendar year, inspiring hope and renewal—hence New Year’s Eve is “Silvester” in many European countries.
