Description

Feast Day/Commemorated: June 9

Saint Cyril, Archbishop of Alexandria, emerged from a devout family, dedicating his youth to both secular philosophy and, more importantly, the study of Holy Scriptures. After six years in the Macarius monastery, he was ordained a deacon by Patriarch Theophilus, who recognized his preaching abilities. Upon Theophilus's death, Cyril was unanimously chosen as Patriarch. Early in his tenure, he vigorously combated the Novatian heresy, which denied readmission to the Church for those who had apostatized during persecutions. He also bravely confronted the Jewish community in Alexandria, who often incited riots against Christians, and worked to eradicate paganism by transforming a pagan temple into a church.

His most significant struggle, however, began with the rise of the Nestorian heresy. Nestorius, the Patriarch of Constantinople, challenged the traditional title of "Theotokos" (Mother of God) for the Virgin Mary, instead preferring "Christotokos" (Christ-bearer), implying that Mary bore only the human Christ, not God Himself. Saint Cyril tirelessly wrote to Nestorius, to the emperor, and to other Church leaders, denouncing this dangerous teaching. As Nestorius escalated his persecution of Orthodox Christians, calling for anathema against those who used "Theotokos," the escalating conflict necessitated the convening of the Ecumenical Council of Ephesus in 431 AD.

At the Council, presided over by Saint Cyril, Nestorius's doctrine was condemned as heretical. Despite Nestorius's defiance and a counter-"robber council" that briefly imprisoned Cyril, the Council's decrees ultimately prevailed. Nestorius was deposed and died in exile. Saint Cyril guided the Alexandrian Church for 32 years, seeing his flock largely cleansed of heresies by the end of his life. He also famously reconciled with the memory of Saint John Chrysostom, whom his uncle had opposed, after a profound dream. Dying in 444 AD, Saint Cyril left behind a vast body of theological works, including commentaries on the Gospels and significant treatises against Arianism and Nestorianism, solidifying his legacy as a defender of Orthodoxy.

About Our Icons (Print and Mounted):

Theophany Works Icons are handcrafted reproductions, made with prayer and a desire for excellence. Choose from our standard mounted option on Museum Quality Paper or you may choose to upgrade to Museum Quality Matte Canvas. Both offer a rich print with saturated coloration and are finished with our high-grade UV protection sealant offering a subtle tactile texture that gives our icons a truly authentic feel. Additionally, each Maple-shelled panel is prepared with a painted chamfered front edge as well as a round-over on the back edge to give a shadow box effect when hung on the wall. Our Icons come standard with a sliding key-hole slot on the back which allows for balanced hanging. These beautiful American-made reproductions will be a beloved addition to any home or parish at the fraction of the cost of a hand painted icon.

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