In the chronology of recent history, the reign of the first Pope John Paul was brief. The smiling pope, Albino Luciani, reigned for thirty-three days and was called to eternal glory. Today, I learned that a few popes reigned for short periods.

A linguist and scholar who reformed Gregorian chant, Pope Leo II reigned for about ten months. Born around 611 in Calabria or Sicily. He was elected pope at the age of 70 in 681.

Pope Leo II fought the heresy of Monothelitism, the belief that Jesus had a single divine-human will. Leo II declared the dogma that Christ had two wills, not opposed to each other, but with a human will subordinate to the divine will. This dogma won the Emperor’s favor and strengthened the political foundation of the papacy.

Leo II was loved by his people. He was known for his particular concern for the poor.

We are recipients of the Christology that has fought many debates. We understand Christ with precision and clarity due to the contributions of popes like Leo II. Who is Christ to you? Do we understand and love him as the Church has presented him to the world?