Sts. Cyril and Methodius
Feast day: February 14
Cyril and Methodius were brothers, born in Thessalonica, Greece, to a senatorial family. Cyril taught in Constantinople; Methodius was a provincial governor. Renouncing their wealth, they were ordained and went as missionaries to Moravia. Their knowledge of the Slavic language proved instrumental in their work. Additionally, they devised an alphabet known as Glagolitic, which later evolved into the Cyrillic alphabet, marking the beginning of Slavonic literature. Their successes brought them many enemies in Germany. In 869, Cyril died in Rome. Methodius was consecrated bishop and returned to his mission. He was imprisoned by the Germans for two years until Pope John VIII won his release. Methodius died in 885. The brothers are known as the “Apostles of the Slavs.” They are patrons of Bulgaria and Europe.
Collect
O God, who enlightened the Slavic peoples
through the brothers Saints Cyril and Methodius,
grant that our hearts may grasp the words of your teaching,
and perfect us as a people of one accord
in true faith and right confession.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
