ST. CYRIL OF JERUSALEM (MARCH 18TH)

Edited by Bp. Joseph

St. Cyril of Jerusalem (AD 313-386), a shining beacon from his youth, immersed himself in the sacred texts with a fervor matched only by his profound faith. His philosophical prowess blossomed under the tutelage of St. Maximus, Patriarch of Jerusalem, who, recognizing St. Cyril's spiritual acumen, ordained him a priest. Entrusted with the solemn duty of elucidating the Gospel to both the faithful and the catechumens, St. Cyril's magisterial Catechetical Instructions endure as timeless repositories of ecclesiastical wisdom.

With perspicuity and foresight, St. Cyril not only debunked all contemporary heresies but also presciently anticipated doctrinal deviations yet to emerge. Following the passing of Patriarch St. Maximus, St. Cyril ascended to the episcopal throne amidst turbulent times besieged by the pernicious onslaught of Arianism.

Enduring calumnies and persecutions at the hands of Arian adversaries, St. Cyril found solace in exile, seeking refuge in Tarsus. Despite the vicissitudes of his ecclesiastical tenure, St. Cyril's steadfast commitment to Orthodoxy and his pastoral solicitude guided the beleaguered faithful through the tempests of theological controversy. He was protected by the ever-astute and powerful St. Gregory of Nyssa, who came to his aid and helped him battle against the Arian heretics! 

Allegedly marked by divine favor, St. Cyril's spiritual leadership was affirmed by celestial portents, including a resplendent cross witnessed by both pagans and Christians. Moreover, St. Cyril's prophetic insight forewarned of the calamitous fate that befell Emperor Julian's ill-fated endeavor to rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem.

Amidst the ecclesiastical tumult, St. Cyril's unwavering fidelity to the Orthodox creed eventually triumphed, witnessing the condemnation of Arianism and the restoration of peace within the Church. Recognized as a venerable doctor of the Church, St. Cyril's legacy endures as a brightly burning lamp of theological clarity and pastoral zeal.

COLLECT

ALMIGHTY GOD, through the intercession of our blessed Bishop Saint Cyril, may we attain unto the knowledge of the one true God and Jesus Christ, Thy Son, whom Thou hath sent. May we, as obedient sheep, heed Thy voice now and forevermore, through Jesus Christ Thy Son our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen.