We all hate being misunderstood. We especially hate being falsely accused, even over small things.
Can you imagine being falsely accused of extreme heresy?
It wouldn’t be too hard for St. Cyril to imagine…it was a reality he had to live.
Born around 315 A.D., Cyril was raised in Jerusalem and received a thorough education, particularly in the Scriptures. At a young age, Cyril was deeply convicted of his Faith and had a special love for the beauty of theology.
He was ordained a priest by the Bishop of Jerusalem and tasked with catechizing those preparing for Baptism and the newly-baptized during Lent and the Easter season.
His lectures, known as the “Catechetical Lectures” or “Catecheses,” are still valued today for their insights into the liturgical practices and theological understanding of the Church in the mid-4th century.
However, despite his faith, Cyril’s ascension to the episcopate of Jerusalem was marked by controversy. The circumstances of his consecration are somewhat unclear, but it is known that one of the consecrating bishops was Acacius, an Arian, leading to suspicions about Cyril’s theological leanings. The stain of the Arian heresy would affect Cyril’s reputation for centuries.
Cyril’s tenure as bishop was rocky. Those around him continually accused St. Cyril of Arianism, despite his own sound and faithful leadership. An opposing bishop even falsely accused him of insubordination and misuse of church property.
St. Cyril was exiled, pardoned, and exiled again.
Cyril’s orthodoxy was eventually affirmed. He participated in the Council of Constantinople in 381, where he accepted the term “consubstantial,” affirming that Christ is of the same substance as the Father. This acceptance played a crucial role in the Church’s rejection of Arianism and the establishment of the doctrine of the Trinity as articulated in the Nicene Creed.
St. Cyril’s confreres went from accusing him of Arianism to recognizing him as a defender of orthodoxy against it. Despite the accusations and criticism, St. Cyril maintained humble trust in the Lord.
His contributions were ultimately recognized, and in 1822, Cyril was declared a Doctor of the Church, an honor bestowed upon saints who have made significant contributions to theology and doctrine.
Not all of us will be called upon to contribute to Church councils or help theologically clarify heresy, but we are all called to be well-formed Catholics! While doctrines such as the Trinity, which St. Cyril helped outline, can be complex, The Catechism Explained is here to help. This accessible book takes the powerful doctrines of our Faith and breaks them down into understandable lessons. In easy-to-read, non-technical language, it opens up the profound richness of our Faith for you. An essential addition to every Catholic home or office! Order your copy from The Catholic Company today!
