Commemorations February 14: Cyril and Methodius

Commemorations February 14

Cyril, Monk, d. 869; Methodius, Bishop, d. 885

Reflection

While all of us have our hearts set on St. Valentine today (evidently there were two Valentines, about whom we know very little), we turn to other lesser known (to us) but better documented brothers whose memories are revered by the Slovaks, Czechs, Croats, Serbs, and Bulgars.

Cyril and Methodius are known as “the apostles to the Slavs.” Though both attained noted positions at a young age, both withdrew to monastic life. In 862, in response to a request from the king of Moravia for missionaries who would counter the expansive power of German bishops, the brothers were chosen by the Patriarch of Constantinople (now Istanbul) to lead the mission.

In Moravia, Cyril immersed himself in the vernacular and invented an alphabet, Glagolitic, so that he could translate the Gospels and the liturgy into the language of the people. His efforts were opposed by Western-influenced clergy within Moravia, who recognized only the three languages of Pilate’s sign above the Jesus’ cross: Hebrew, Latin, and Greek. Cyril died of ill health at age 42 on this day in Rome, following a visit to the Pope, who confirmed Cyril’s Slavonic translations. Methodius continued the work in Moravia, despite ongoing violent opposition from the German bishops. He died in his cathedral church on Tuesday of Holy Week.

Prayer

Gracious God, Through almost constant opposition, Cyril and Methodius were empowered and sustained by your Spirit. So inspire us to follow your call. In Jesus’ name. Amen.