Saint Cyril of Jerusalem
| Saint Cyril of Jerusalem | |
|---|---|
| Saint | Saint Cyril of Jerusalem |
| Stage | Saint |
| Birthdate | c. 315 |
| Birthplace | Jerusalem, Roman Province of Syria Palaestina (modern-day Israel) |
| Birth Coordinates | |
| Deathdate | March 18, 386 |
| Death Place | Jerusalem |
| Death Coordinates | |
| Cause of Death | Natural Causes |
| Notable Location 1 | Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem |
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| Beatification Date | Not formally beatified |
| Beatified by | |
| Beatification Location | |
| Canonized | Yes (traditional recognition) |
| Canonization Date | 1883 (cultus confirmed) |
| Canonized by | Pope Leo XIII |
| Canonization Location | |
| Miracle 1 | |
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| Miracle 3 | |
| Feast Day | March 18 |
| Profession | Bishop, Theologian, Catechist |
| Religious Affiliation | Early Christian Church |
| Patronage | Jerusalem, catechists, catechumens |
| Attributes | Bishop's vestments, a book (representing his catechetical lectures) |
| Primary Shrine | Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem |
| Additional Veneration | |
Saint Cyril of Jerusalem was a pivotal figure in early Christianity, known for his catechetical lectures and his role as Bishop of Jerusalem. Born in Jerusalem, Cyril was involved in several theological controversies, notably the Arian controversy, where he defended the orthodox Christian doctrine of the divinity of Christ. His catechetical lectures, delivered to those preparing for baptism, are some of the earliest and most comprehensive examples of Christian teaching from that era. Cyril experienced multiple exiles due to his theological stance but was eventually recognized for his contributions to the Church. His works have been influential in shaping Christian liturgy and theology.
Biography
Birth
Cyril was born around 315 AD in Jerusalem, which was then part of the Roman Province of Syria Palaestina.
Early Life
Details of his early life are sparse, but he was likely well-educated, preparing him for his later roles in the Church.
Occupation
He served as a priest and later became Bishop of Jerusalem.
Vocation
Cyril's vocation was marked by his commitment to catechesis and defending orthodox Christian beliefs during the Arian controversies.
Death
He died on March 18, 386, in Jerusalem from natural causes, having returned from his last exile.
Significant events
- Delivered his famous Catechetical Lectures to catechumens in Jerusalem, which have become a foundational text for Christian catechesis.
- Faced multiple exiles due to the Arian controversy but was reinstated to his see several times.
- Participated in the First Council of Constantinople, which further solidified his theological stances.
Death
Cyril died peacefully in Jerusalem, having lived through a tumultuous period in Church history.
Canonization
Servant of God
His recognition as a saint was traditional, based on his teachings, writings, and the sanctity of his life.
Venerable
Not applicable as this title was formalized later.
Beatification
Not formally beatified; his sanctity was recognized through historical veneration.
Canonization
In 1883, Pope Leo XIII confirmed his cultus, acknowledging his sainthood.
Miracles
No specific miracles are documented for his canonization as it was more based on his theological contributions:
Miracle for beatification
Not applicable.
Miracle for canonization
Not applicable.
Other notable miracles
- His life and the survival of his teachings through turbulent times could be considered miraculous by some.
Patronage
Cyril is the patron saint of Jerusalem, catechists, and catechumens, reflecting his significant role in Christian education.
Feast day
Saint Cyril of Jerusalem's feast day is celebrated on March 18.
Veneration
He is venerated particularly in Jerusalem, where his relics are kept in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and his teachings continue to influence Christian catechesis worldwide.
Books
Written about the saint
- Various theological and historical texts discuss his life and contributions.
Written by the saint
- "Catechetical Lectures" - a series of teachings on Christian doctrine for catechumens.
External links
- Catholic Online - Saint Cyril of Jerusalem
- Wikipedia - Cyril of Jerusalem
- Catholic Encyclopedia - St. Cyril of Jerusalem