Christophorus

After Christophorus’ fall, Paulus Afiarta continued to serve the papal court in a high capacity.

Christophorus died after three days, while Sergius was kept in a cell in the Lateran.

During Stephen’s absence, Afiarta and his supporters sought to stir up a mob to overthrow Christophorus and Sergius.

Further, that Stephen had fled to Desiderius for protection, and that eventually Christophorus and Sergius were brought out against their will.

Mann, pg. 385 This message from the Lombard king had the desired effect; Christophorus and Sergius began to suspect their associates, who in turn rapidly abandoned them.

Mann, pg. 386 The next day Stephen was allowed to return to the city, while Christophorus and Sergius were left in Lombard hands.

Mann, pgs. 384-385 The Pope sent two bishops to negotiate with Christophorus and Sergius, telling them that they must either retire to a monastery or come out to him at St. Peter’s.

Partner, pg. 28 The Lombard king, shutting Stephen up in his suites in the Basilica, made it clear to the Pope that the price for his help was to be the handing over of Christophorus and Sergius.

When Desiderius attempted to enter Rome in 771 with an army, claiming to be on a pilgrimage to pray at the shrine of St. Peter, Christophorus and Sergius shut the gates of the city against them.