ADRIANO II, POPE. — Born in Rome in 792 to one of the best families, which had already given the popes Stephen IV (816-17) and Sergius II (844-47). Before entering the sacred orders, he had married Stephania, by whom he had a daughter. Gregory IV in 842 ordained him subdeacon and received him at the Lateran. Shortly afterward he was consecrated priest and created cardinal of the title of St. Mark. He was pious and charitable, so much so that twice already, at the death of Leo IV (855) and Benedict III (858), an attempt was made to elect him pope. At the death of Nicholas I (13 Nov. 867) a pontiff was desired who would continue his policies but with a less harsh hand. Adrian seemed the most suitable. It was necessary to act quickly, because Lambert of Spoleto had invaded the city, whether by order of the emperor Louis II (850-75) or not, committing acts of violence and injustice. The imperial ratification soon followed, and Adrian was consecrated in St. Peter’s on 14 Dec. 867.
