Pope Pontian resigned after being exiled to Sardinia, becoming the first pope to relinquish the position. Pope Pontian: Pope Pontian was the bishop of Rome from 21 July 230 to 28 September 235. In 235, during the persecution of Christians in the reign of the Emperor Maximinus Thrax, Pontian was arrested and sent to the island of Sardinia. September 28, 235. Wiki link