Adeodatus II's pontificate is extremely obscure. It coincided with a surge of passionate interest inPope Martin I andMaximus the Confessor, who were known for resisting the support of theEastern Roman emperors forMonothelism. In light of this, Pope Adeodatus rejected the synodical letters sent to him by PatriarchConstantine I of Constantinople. Because of this, his name was excluded from thediptychs in Constantinople.[2] Adeodatus was active in improving monastic discipline and in the repression ofMonothelitism and gaveVenice the right to choose itsdoge. During his pontificate, the Basilica of St. Peter was built at the eighth milestone of the Via Portuensis. St. Erasmus was also reconstructed.[3] Elected as Pope on 11 April 672, Adeodatus II did not get involved in political events and disengaged himself from the events at the time surroundingMonothelitism.[4]
Pope Adeodatus II devoted his reign to the restoration of churches in disrepair. He protected the Abbey of St. Peter and St. Paul (known as St. Augustine's Abbey), exemptedMarmoutier Abbey, Tours (Abbey of St.Martin of Tours) from the authority of the Holy See, and led improvements to St. Erasmus' monastery. He is sometimes called saint and 26 June is given as his feast day, but this is disputed.[4] Adeodatus II's papacy did not contribute by a large amount to society. He died on 17 June 676 and was succeeded byDonus.[4]
