SAINTS CYRIL AND METHODIUS

Saints Cyril and Methodius

 Saints Cyril and Methodius were two brothers born in Thessaloniki, Greece,during the 9th century.

They became missionaries of Christianity and through their work influenced the cultural development of the Slavic people, for which they received the title “Apostles to the Slavs”.

After their death, their pupils continued their missionary work among other Slavic people.

Both brothers are venerated in the Eastern Orthodox Church as Saints.

In 1880, Pope Leo XIII introduced their feast into the calendar of the Roman Catholic Church, as saints equal to the Apostles and in 1980, Pope John Paul II declared them co-patrons of Europe.

One popular opinion among Slavics is that Cyril and Methodius were themselves of Slavic background.

Theories and positions of authors who have maintained such views range from a Greek father and Bulgarian mother to purely Slavonic, or, more specifically, Bulgarian origin.

There has been a long standing dispute as to the correct ethnicity of these Saints:

  Are they Greek, or Are they Bulgarian?

We are not here to debate the issue, but to serve the community.  Our parish is blessed to be named after these two saints and we are privileged to serve both nationalities, among others.

An extensive story of their lives is provided by Wikipedia under Saints Cyril and Methodius for anyone who wishes to follow their life stories and mission.

SAINTS CYRIL AND METHODIUS CATHEDRAL

237 SACKVILLE STREET, TORONTO, ONTARIO  M5A 3G1

416-368-2828 OR 647-886-4444  FR.VALERI