# Rebaptism controversy (256)

URL: https://christianity-history.com/timeline/256-rebaptism-controversy
Location: Rome and Carthage
Themes: Theology

Pope Stephen I and Cyprian clash over whether baptisms performed by heretics are valid. At this point in the timeline (256), the Bishop of Rome was Pope Stephen I (12 March 254 – 2 August 257). His claim was contested by Antipope Novatian.

## Why it matters
Rebaptism controversy mattered because it shaped how Christians understand God, Christ, salvation and the church.

Pope at the time: [Pope Stephen I](https://christianity-history.com/popes/pope-stephen-i)

## Sources
- [Wikipedia — Pope Stephen I](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pope_Stephen_I)
- [Encyclopaedia Britannica topic lookup — Rebaptism controversy](https://www.britannica.com/search?query=Rebaptism+controversy)
- [Wikipedia — Early Church (period overview)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ante-Nicene_period)