Unusual moments in papal history

POSTED: 09:56 AM PST Feb 11, 2013    UPDATED: 08:12 AM PST Feb 12, 2013 

From resignations to drownings and beheadings, the papacy is full of unusual and surprising moments.

Pope Moments - Stephen I
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Pope Stephen I (May 254-August 257 AD) -- Pope Stephen I is said to have been sitting on his throne, celebrating Mass, when Emperor Valerian's men stormed the room and beheaded him where he sat. The blood-stained throne is alleged to have been preserved by the church until the 18th century.

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