The conflict between Stephen and Cyprian comes close to causing a split between Carthage and Rome over the power and authority of the bishop of Rome. Emperor Valerian prepares another Empire-wide persecution of Christians.

Links:

Image: Bishop Stephen I of Rome

Material related to the conflict between Stephen and Cyprian

Cyprian and the Episcopal Synod of Late 254 by Geoffrey D. Dunn

On the different versions of Cyprian’s Unity of the Church

Fr. Seraphim’s Christmas Wish List at Amazon

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#315 – A History of the Catholic Church – The Bishop of Bishops