This week in Christian history: Francis Asbury dies, Russian bishop consecrated, Sylvester II becomes pope

By Michael Gryboski, Editor Sunday, March 30, 2025

Sylvester II begins his reign as pope – April 2, 999

Pope Sylvester II (946-1003), a teacher and scientist who later became head of the Roman Catholic Church. He is depicted in the dark blue robe in this illustration from around the time of his death. | Wikimedia Commons

This week marks the anniversary of when Pope Sylvester II began his papacy, overseeing the Roman Catholic Church for four years until his death in 1003.

Born Gerbert of Aurillac in Saint-Simon, France, in 946, Sylvester II was best known for his tutoring of Holy Roman Empire princes, interest in scientific research, and love of literature.

“Gerbert proved to be a humanist four centuries before the Renaissance. He read literature ranging from Latin religious works to the Greek and Roman classics of Aristotle, Cicero, and Virgil,” explained the website Pope History.

“The French philosopher, teacher, and scientist turned pope also built a revolutionary organ that was powered by hydraulics using brass pipes. It was considered to be far superior to any earlier designed musical instrument.”